When did sneakers become so expensive? Recently, I searched for running sneakers. The shock hit me, the price. On many journeys to one store after another, the same four to five figures depending on the label. There is an investment in staying healthy this summer.
Let’s be real! Trainers are made of rubber, form and plastic in multiple colors, embellishments and sole thickness. Yet, the selection is expansive. Perhaps some leather parts in the design, but that depends on a mark or collection. Top of the line sneakers run as high as 300 euros. Lesser brands hit 100 euros.
After dropping on several stores, I asked a few sales people. Some smiled while others shook their heads or shrugged. At a wall-to-wall sportswear specialty store, a clerk told me as trainers got more prestigious, mainstream, the prices went up fast. Buyers are less concerned about price and more about the style statement. Even the sale prices are not much, sometimes only 10 to 20 euros less than the original price. After presented with a pair for 140 euros, I placed my hand inside, noticing the big toe tip had thin material, translation, a hole in a few months.
In the end, I am still looking for a reasonably priced pair of running shoes under 80 euros, yet hope is fading.