If there’s one shoe trend that’s quietly taking over 2025, it’s the “sneakerina.” Equal parts elegant and effortless, this hybrid of ballet flat and sneaker isn’t just a quirky mash-up—it’s a smart, style-forward response to how we actually live (and dress) now. As wardrobes shift toward pieces that can transition from coffee runs to client meetings, or long-haul flights to late-night dinners, the sneakerina steps in with that rare mix of polish and practicality.

What’s fueling the rise? A few things: the continued pull of balletcore (but grown up), the global appetite for “quiet luxury” silhouettes, and the collective rejection of uncomfortable shoes that serve style over substance. Brands are meeting the moment, offering versions that range from the delicate and romantic to the sporty and sculptural. Think soft materials, flexible soles, and shapes that feel graceful without being precious. These aren’t just shoes—they’re your new everyday power players. Here are five of the best sneakerinas worth lacing into right now.

LV Sneakerina

Louis Vuitton introduces the LV Sneakerina, a bold fusion of sneaker and ballet flat that redefines functional elegance. Designed for freedom of movement and everyday wear, this streamlined model features an ultra-light, flexible sole made with Sacchetto construction. Blending minimalist sportswear with a refined edge, it comes in a wide range of materials and vibrant shades—from velvet-effect leather and metallics to sequins and mesh—in colors like fuchsia, forest green, pink, silver, and more. Iconic Louis Vuitton elements such as the Monogram canvas and LV Circle complete the look. 

Vivaia Cristina Lace-Up, P7,950

The internet’s new favorite shoe has landed in the Philippines with the arrival of VIVAIA’s Cristina Lace-up Derby Flats—spotted on fashion icons like Bella Hadid and K-pop star (G)-Idle’s Shuhua. Blending the classic derby with a modern balletcore twist, the Cristina features a square toe, recycled satin fabric, and a triple-layer sole that delivers all-day comfort and foldable, travel-ready ease. Designed by the eco-conscious brand known for sustainable fashion-forward footwear, each pair comes with two sets of laces for styling versatility and is available in Light Gold and Black for Php7,950. Launching at VIVAIA Philippines’ Shangri-La Plaza pop-up on April 15, the Cristinas are perfect for the office, casual outings, or a night out. Since its earlier arrival in Metro Manila, VIVAIA has gained a loyal following with styles like the Margot Mary Janes and Addison Slingbacks. The Shangri-La pop-up, located at Level 1 of the Main Wing, offers a preview of the brand’s stylish future in the Philippines as it plans further expansion later this year.

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 TGRS, P9,900

Onitsuka Tiger has officially introduced the Mexico 66 TGRS, a fresh reinterpretation of its iconic Mexico 66 silhouette, blending the elegance of pumps with the comfort of sneakers. Launched on March 14, 2025, this new model is designed as a slip-on with straps, featuring a slim, refined profile and distinctive flower-cut Onitsuka Tiger Stripes. The shoe combines a hybrid aesthetic of pump and sneaker, boasting a sleek silhouette with floral-patterned stripes. It’s equipped with crossed heel reinforcement and a heel flap for added support, along with an adjustable buckle offering three settings for a personalized fit. A spacious toe box further enhances comfort for all-day wear. The upper is made from a combination of leather and synthetic leather, while the outer sole is constructed from rubber. The Mexico 66 TGRS is available in classic shades like all-black and all-white, as well as seasonal hues such as silver and white, black and white, and soft lilac. Aligning with the growing trend of Mary Jane-style footwear, this release merges nostalgic charm with contemporary design, and is now available through Onitsuka Tiger’s official channels.

Loewe Ballet Runner 2.0. P47,600

In February, LOEWE reintroduced its Ballet Runner silhouette with the launch of the Ballet Runner 2.0, an elevated reimagination of the 2019 original. This refined hybrid—part running shoe, part ballet flat—blends retro athletic charm with the brand’s signature luxury craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from 1970s running sneakers, the Ballet Runner 2.0 features LOEWE’s distinctive asymmetric toe and now includes a revamped ‘L’ monogram on the quarter, an embossed anagram on the tongue, and a sculptural wavy-textured rubber outsole that extends across the toe-cap for enhanced grip and character. Comfort and flexibility are central to the design, thanks to the shoe’s Sacchetto construction, which creates a sock-like fit by stitching the lining directly to the insole. Each pair includes two sets of laces and a calfskin heel tab with an injected rubber logo, either tonal or in contrast depending on the colorway. Initially released in nylon and calfskin combinations through a curated drop on loewe.com—featuring black/white, lilac/white/grey, and other bold mixes—the range will expand with full leather versions in timeless shades like black, white, and cinnamon. Launching alongside the Flow Runner, this 2.0 update continues LOEWE’s momentum in merging fashion-forward design with technical finesse, further cementing the brand’s place in the growing ballet-sneaker trend.

Puma Speeedcat Ballerina, P5,200

PUMA reimagines the classic Mary Jane with its new Speedcat Ballerina, a hybrid silhouette that debuted at Copenhagen Fashion Week. Fusing the elegance of ballet flats with the legacy of motorsports, the design features an open forefoot with elastic strap closure and a sleek profile inspired by the original Speedcat. Colorways include striking two-tone black and pink options, as well as a metallic silver that nods to Formula 1 aesthetics. First introduced in 1999 for F1 drivers, the Speedcat’s low-profile design offered precision on the gas pedal, now reworked with the rebellious spirit of the 1920s Mary Jane in mind. This release marks a bold new chapter for both PUMA and a timeless silhouette.