How to recognise it
The collar sits at the ankle bone, the lacing is longer than on low tops, often six or seven pairs of eyelets. The collar is padded, sometimes with a strap.
Where it comes from
Mid-top sneakers appeared as a compromise in basketball and aerobics shoes in the 1980s: they supported the ankle but were lighter than high tops.
Who and when it suits
Good for the in-between season: warmer than low tops and lighter than high tops. They go with straight and slim jeans, joggers and skirts.
Variations and look-alikes
They come in leather, canvas or suede, with or without an ankle strap, in basketball or casual style. Leather mids suit autumn. They differ from low tops in the shaft reaching the ankle, and from high tops in not rising above it.
How to style it
- Show the shaft with cropped jeans.
- With longer socks in autumn.
- With a midi skirt for a sporty look.
- Wide trousers cover the shaft.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01Where do mid tops end?
At the ankle bone, between low and high tops.
02Do mid tops suit petite people?
Yes, with cropped trousers or a skirt they do not overwhelm the leg.
03How do mid tops differ from high tops?
High tops cover the whole ankle and rise higher; mid tops end at it.