How to recognise it
The collar sits below the ankle bone, with a tongue and five or six pairs of eyelets at the front. The sole is usually rubber of medium thickness.
Where it comes from
Low tops spread with tennis and running in the first half of the 20th century and from the 1970s became everyday city shoes.
Who and when it suits
The most versatile sneakers: they go with jeans, trousers, skirts, dresses and even a relaxed suit. In summer they pair with cropped trousers.
Variations and look-alikes
They come in leather, canvas, suede or mesh, on a thin or thicker sole, in white, black or colour. The lowest, almost collarless ones are called low profile. They differ from high tops in leaving the ankle bare.
How to style it
- Show the ankle with cropped trousers.
- Invisible socks in summer.
- White low tops go with a dress.
- Replace the laces when they wear out.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How do low tops differ from high tops?
Low tops end below the ankle; high tops cover it.
02Which socks go with low tops?
Invisible or short socks that do not show above the collar.
03Can low tops go with a suit?
Yes, clean white or minimal ones with a relaxed suit.
04Which low tops are most versatile?
White or black leather ones with a slim sole: they go with jeans and with a dress.
05How do you stop low tops rubbing the heel?
Choose a padded collar and try them on with the socks you will wear.