THE SNEAKER TREND YOU’LL EITHER LOVE OR HATE

Japanese label Visvim's FBT shoes—which are part moccasin, part sneaker, and built to last a hell of a long time—have been a kind of birdcall for guys in the know since the early aughts. Thanks to high-profile fans like Kanye West and John Mayer as well as the Internet’s all-things-everywhere power, the FBT’s niche following has evolved into a full-on footwear trend. Whether your budget allows for Saint Laurent splurge or a Nike cop, there are countless sneaker-moccasin hybrids on shelves (or Instagram—see slide 10) these days at every price.

Now, if you’ve not familiar with the original FBTs or their doppelgängers, the fringe might first give you pause and/or bring back bad memories of the crossbred dress shoe/sneakers that had their moment in the late '90s. Discard that doubt and start by nerding out over Visvim designer Hiroki Nakamura’s FBT manifesto. Then, pick up a pair, actually wear them, and wait to become a convert. Seven-hundred dollar sneakers like the FBTs don’t stay in demand for 15 years because they simply look cool.

Here, the original FBT and a few likeminded styles up for grabs now.

By

Megan Gustashaw