Sneaker trends, just like the entirety of human existence, undergo evolution. The dad shoe trend gave way to ugly and overly chunky sneakers, which in turn gave way to what we’re affectionally calling crazy sole sneakers.
One of the main proponents of the crazy sole sneakers movement has undoubtedly been Balenciaga whose boundless view of footwear encompasses five-toe soles and soles propped up on precarious platforms alongside the iconic heeled Croc. But as well as Balenciaga's domination, more affordable offerings come from names like Salomon and New Balance.
Crazy soles come in all shapes, sizes, and aesthetics, so whether you’re more into chunky stompers à la Prada, or prefer structural masterpieces by Balenciaga, our selection from Saks Fifth Avenue has you covered.
Shop the best crazy sole sneakers below
Burberry Arthur Sneakers
Arthur Sneakers
Burberry
The Burberry Arthur sneaker gives Burberry’s luxury take on the hiking shoe trend and is characterized by a rugged sole unit that extends way past the beginning of the upper with a protective mudguard.
Balenciaga Runner Sneakers
Runner Sneakers
Balenciaga
Since Balenciaga launched the Triple-S sneaker which changed the game, it's been a leader when it comes to chunky, crazy soles. One of the latest generations of the trend is the brand's Runner Sneaker which is built on a mish-mash of athletic sole units.
Rick Owens Geth Runner Sneakers
Geth Runner Sneakers
Rick Owens
Rick Owens is no stranger to a wild sole unit. Actually, these Geth Runners feature one of the designer's more toned-down soles which is saying something. The smoothly fashioned, vaguely geometric foundation is in keeping with the clean yet avant-garde overall aesthetic.
New Balance 992
992
New Balance
Okay, it's not the wildest but we needed to take a breather after the Givenchy & Rick Owens double team. The New Balance 992 is a nice way to introduce a chunky sole into your rotation without snapping necks as you walk past.
Acne Studios Rockaway Block Sneakers
Rockaway Block Sneakers
Acne Studios
The fact that Acne Studios could design a sneaker with a sole unit this big and get away with the sneaker still being understated is mind-blowing really.
Balenciaga X-Pander Sneakers
X-Pander Trainers
Balenciaga
There's no way around it, the Balenciaga X-Pander is probably the wildest sole in this roundup, and even the sneaker game as a whole right now. With a 1-inch pillar added to the heel, this pair is ideal for the short kings.
Maison Margiela The Question Leather Mid-Top Sneakers
The Question Leather Mid-Top Sneakers
Maison Margiela
Margiela always has something up its sleeve when it comes to sneaker collaborations. This time, the luxury label has reached for one of Reebok's most underrated silhouettes. Who knew AI's The Question would end up being one of the most avant-garde luxury sneakers on the market in 2022?
Salomon Raid Wind Sneakers
Raid Wind Sneakers
Salomon
Salomon is a master of colorways. The Raid Wind silhouette is a bold shape that's reined in by an understated colorway that relies on a neutral base here.
Prada Cloudbust Thunder Lug-Sole Sneakers
Cloudbust Thunder Lug-Sole Sneakers
Prada
Prada goes full cyborg with the Cloudbust Thunder Lug-Sole Sneakers. The sleek upper of the Cloudbust is given a statement finish with one of the chunkiest soles around right now.
Off-White™ OOO Sneakers
OOO Sneakers
Off-White™
Borrowing aspects of basketball shoes and skate shoes, Virgil's OOO sneakers are, as this design suggests, "for walking". They're also for making an impact thanks to their bulky uppers and thick soles.
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