As a non-native speaker living in the UK, I was initially confused when my new British friends kept referring to their “trainers” instead of “sneakers.” As someone who always had an interest in language and culture, I started to do some research on why Brits use different words than Americans for certain things. It turns out that “trainers” is the British term for what Americans call “sneakers”.
But why the discrepancy in terminology? It seems to stem from the fact that “sneakers” were originally developed in the US in the late 1800s, while “trainers” were introduced in the UK in the 1960s. Despite their different origins, both terms refer to the same type of footwear: lightweight, rubber-soled shoes used for athletic activities or casual wear. In fact, many other countries have their own names for this style of shoe, such as “runners” in Canada and Australia, “joggers” in South Africa, and “tennis shoes” in parts of the southern US.
Regardless of what they’re called, trainers have become an essential part of many people’s wardrobes in the UK and beyond. They’re comfortable, versatile, and stylish, making them a popular choice for everyone from athletes to fashion-conscious teens. So the next time you’re walking down the street in London and someone asks about your “trainers,” don’t be confused – they just want to know about your sneakers!
British English vs American English slang for sneakers
When it comes to footwear, Brits and Americans often use different words to describe the same thing. The word “sneakers” in North America commonly refers to shoes with rubber soles that are worn for sports or casual occasions. In Britain, however, the term “sneakers” is not used as frequently, and instead, they have their own slang words to describe the same type of shoes.
- Trainers: This is the most commonly used term in Britain to describe sporty shoes worn for activities such as running, cycling, and gym workouts. The term “trainers” is derived from the fact that they train feet for athletics.
- Plimsolls: This term is often used to refer to canvas shoes with rubber soles, which are commonly worn by school children for gym class. Essentially, this is the British equivalent to the American “gym shoes.”
- Pumps: In Britain, “pumps” are casual shoes without laces that are often made of canvas or leather. They usually have a flat sole and are a popular choice for everyday wear.
When it comes to brand names, some of the most popular in Britain include Adidas, Nike, and Reebok. However, in recent years there has been a growing trend towards sustainable fashion, with many British brands producing eco-friendly trainers made from recycled materials. Some of the top eco-friendly footwear brands in the UK include Veja and Rothy’s.
| British English | American English |
|---|---|
| Trainers | Sneakers |
| Plimsolls | Gym shoes |
| Pumps | Casual shoes |
Overall, although the terms used to describe sneakers may differ from country to country, the shoes themselves remain a popular choice for both sportswear and street fashion across the globe.
Origin and History of the Term “Sneakers” for Sports Shoes
When we talk about footwear, sneakers are probably one of the most common types that we use. It is a casual shoe that is widely used not just in sports but also in casual and fashion wear. In the UK, this type of footwear is referred to as “trainers.” However, have you ever wondered why they are referred to as “sneakers” in the US?
- The term “sneakers” was first coined in the late 1800s because of its unique sole design that allows the wearer to walk silently or “sneak” around without making any noise.
- Another theory suggests that the term came from the fact that the rubber sole of the shoe allows the wearer to move quickly and with ease, “sneaking” up on someone.
- Sneakers were originally designed for athletes but became popular among the general public in the 20th century due to its comfort and style.
However, despite its popularity, sneakers were still not considered fashionable until the 1950s when James Dean wore a pair of Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars in the movie “Rebel Without a Cause.” This movie made sneakers popular and fashionable among teenagers, and since then, they have become a significant part of fashion culture.
In conclusion, while the term “trainers” is commonly used in the UK, the term “sneakers” has a fascinating history in the US. It is a product of innovation, practicality, and fashion, making it a unique and popular type of footwear that continues to evolve with our changing times.
Regional Variations of the British Term for Sneakers
If you’re a sneakerhead or just a casual fan of sneakers, you might be curious as to what Brits call their sneakers. While most Americans refer to them as “sneakers,” Brits have their own unique terms for this footwear depending on the region. Here are some of the regional variations of the British term for sneakers:
- Plimsolls: This term is commonly used in the South of England. “Plimsolls” originally referred to a type of lightweight rubber-soled shoe that had a canvas upper and was used for activities like sports, gym class, and paddling in the sea. In modern times, the term has become synonymous with “sneakers” or “gym shoes.”
- Trainers: This is perhaps the most common term used throughout the UK. “Trainers” is used in reference to any type of athletic shoe, from running shoes to basketball sneakers. This term originated in the sporting world and is now a ubiquitous term for sneakers in general.
- Plimpsolls: Though it may sound similar to “plimsolls,” “plimpsolls” is actually a term more commonly used in Scotland to describe sneakers. The term is often used interchangeably with “trainers,” and like “plimsolls,” it originated in the sporting world before being applied to all types of sneakers.
While these terms are the most common regional variations of the British term for sneakers, there are also other variations depending on the region. For example, in Liverpool, “sneakers” are referred to as “scouse boots,” while in other parts of the UK, they may simply be called “shoes” or “trainies.”
Below is a table summarizing some of the regional variations:
| Region | Term for Sneakers |
|---|---|
| South of England | Plimsolls |
| Throughout the UK | Trainers |
| Scotland | Plimpsolls |
| Liverpool | Scouse boots |
| Other parts of UK | Shoes, Trainies |
As you can see, there are plenty of different terms used throughout the UK to describe sneakers. Whether you call them “plimsolls,” “trainers,” or something else entirely, there’s no denying the popularity of this type of footwear among the British population.
Brand names for sneakers used in Britain
If you’re visiting Britain and you want to buy sneakers, you may get confused when the locals call it something else. Here are some of the most popular brand names for sneakers used in Britain:
- Trainers – This is the most common term used in Britain for sneakers, and it refers to any shoe that is designed for sporting or physical activity.
- Plimsolls – These are canvas shoes with a rubber sole that are typically worn for casual wear or sports activities.
- Pumps – Similar to plimsolls, these canvas shoes have a rubber sole and are usually worn for casual events.
Aside from these popular terms, there are also brand names that are unique to Britain:
- Nike – Originating from the US, Nike is a popular brand that offers a range of sneakers and sportswear in Britain.
- Adidas – A German brand that is favored by British youth culture for its fashionable designs.
- Reebok – Another popular American brand, Reebok offers both classic and modern styles that are well-loved by Brits.
If you’re confused about what to call your sneakers in Britain, don’t worry – most locals will understand what you mean regardless of the term you use. It’s also worth noting that some regions in Britain may have their own slang or dialect when it comes to referring to sneakers, so don’t be surprised if you hear other terms during your trip.
But whatever you call them, one thing is for sure – Brits take their sneakers seriously, and there is always a demand for the latest and most fashionable styles.
Here is a table comparing the different brand names for sneakers used in Britain:
| Brand Name | Categorization | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Trainers | Casual/Sportswear | Britain |
| Plimsolls | Casual/Sportswear | Britain |
| Pumps | Casual/Sportswear | Britain |
| Nike | Casual/Sportswear | USA |
| Adidas | Casual/Sportswear | Germany |
| Reebok | Casual/Sportswear | USA |
Perception of sneakers in British fashion culture
British fashion culture has come a long way since the punk rock era of the 1970s. Today, sneakers are a staple in most British wardrobes and are seen as a fashion statement rather than just a practical choice of footwear.
- The term “sneakers” is commonly used in the UK, although some people may also refer to them as “trainers”.
- Sneakers are no longer restricted to just the gym or a casual day out. They are now worn to work, events, and even weddings.
- Wearing sneakers with a suit or formal attire is a popular trend in British fashion. It adds a touch of personality to an otherwise traditional outfit.
According to a study by London’s Centre for Fashion Enterprise, sneakers are the fastest-growing sector of the luxury footwear market. This trend can be seen in the popularity of designer collaborations, limited edition releases, and high-end sneaker boutiques.
Furthermore, British celebrities and influencers have embraced the sneaker trend and have been spotted wearing them on red carpets and at fashion events. This has helped to further cement their place in British fashion culture.
| Brand | Popular sneaker model |
|---|---|
| Nike | Air Force 1 |
| Adidas | Superstar |
| Converse | Chuck Taylor All Star |
The popularity of certain sneaker brands and models in British fashion culture can also be observed. Nike’s Air Force 1, Adidas’ Superstar, and Converse’s Chuck Taylor All Star are all iconic designs that have stood the test of time and remain popular choices among British fashionistas.
In conclusion, sneakers have become an integral part of British fashion culture. They represent individuality, comfort, and style, and can be worn in a variety of settings. Celebrities, designers, and influencers have all played a role in making sneakers a fashionable choice, and their popularity shows no signs of slowing down.
Sneaker trends in British popular culture
From fashion to sport, sneakers have been an essential footwear choice for Brits for decades. Here are some current sneaker trends that are taking over the British popular culture:
- Chunky sneakers: The chunky ‘Dad’ sneakers are still seen on the streets of London, Manchester, and beyond. Brands like Balenciaga and Fila have been at the forefront of the chunky sneaker trend, with their Triple S and Disruptor models being a common sight on the feet of fashion-conscious British youth.
- White sneakers: White sneakers have become a staple in British fashion, with designer brands like Common Projects and Adidas’ Stan Smith leading the way. The versatility of white sneakers means they can be dressed up or down, making them a popular choice for both casual and formal occasions.
- Platform sneakers: Platform sneakers have made a comeback in recent years, with brands like Vans and Converse releasing platform versions of their classic designs. These sneakers are perfect for those who want to add some height without sacrificing comfort.
But it’s not just about the latest sneaker trends. Sneakers have played a significant role in British popular culture for decades, and here are some iconic moments in sneaker history:
In the ’90s, the Britpop movement took over the UK music scene, and with it came a wave of fashionable sneakers. Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher was known for his love of Converse All Stars, while Ian Brown from The Stone Roses was a fan of Adidas Gazelles.
The UK garage scene in the early 2000s saw the rise of the Nike Air Max TN, often referred to as the ‘Nike TN.’ These sneakers were popular among UK garage fans and were famously referenced in the So Solid Crew’s hit song ’21 Seconds.’
Table: Top 5 Most Popular Sneaker Brands in the UK
| Rank | Brand | % of Total Sales |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nike | 36% |
| 2 | Adidas | 21% |
| 3 | New Balance | 13% |
| 4 | Puma | 8% |
| 5 | Reebok | 6% |
As you can see from the table above, Nike and Adidas are the clear leaders in sneaker sales in the UK, with other brands like New Balance and Puma also having a solid presence in the market.
Ultimately, sneakers will always be a part of British popular culture, whether it’s through the latest trends or nostalgic throwbacks to iconic moments in music and fashion.
Adidas and other brand names synonymous with sneakers in the UK
When it comes to sneakers, the UK has its own unique slang that differs from North American terminology. In the UK, sneakers are typically called “trainers,” which reflects their original use as shoes for physical training.
One of the most popular trainer brands in the UK is Adidas. This German sportswear giant has had a huge impact on UK fashion since it arrived in the country in the 1960s. Adidas sneakers are often casually referred to as “Adis,” and many of their styles have become classics in their own right. For example, the Adidas Superstar is a hugely popular style that has been worn by everyone from basketball greats to hip-hop legends.
But Adidas is just one of many trainer brands that have become synonymous with sneakers in the UK. Here are a few others that you might come across:
- Nike: This American sportswear brand is also incredibly popular in the UK, and their sneakers are often referred to by the nickname “Nikes.”
- Reebok: Another American brand that has made a big impact in the UK, Reebok sneakers are often casually referred to as “Rees.”
- Vans: While originally a US skateboarding brand, Vans has become incredibly popular in the UK in recent years. Their classic canvas sneakers are often just called “Vans.”
In addition to these big names, there are also a number of smaller British brands that have made a name for themselves in the trainer world. For example, the brand Gola is often associated with the classic British mod style, and their sneakers are still popular today. Meanwhile, the brand Hi-Tec is known for their more technical outdoor and hiking trainers, which are popular with ramblers and hikers across the UK.
Of course, these are just a few of the many trainer brands out there, and the UK has a long and storied history with sneakers. Whether you call them trainers or sneakers, there’s no denying the importance of this footwear in UK fashion and culture.
Social and cultural significance of sneakers in British subcultures
For many British subcultures, sneakers have been an important aspect of dress and expression. From mods to punks, each subculture has added their own unique flair to the sneaker culture. One of the most significant aspects of this trend in the UK was the idea that sneakers were not simply a commodity, but a symbol of individuality and identity. Here are some of the key subcultures that have influenced the social and cultural significance of sneakers in the UK:
Mod Culture
- The mod subculture emerged in the late 1950s and was characterized by its love of fashion, racing cars and scooters, and soul and jazz music.
- Mods are known for their sharp suits and dapper fashion sense which often included loafers or desert boots.
- However, the mod look eventually evolved to incorporate sneakers, most famously the Adidas Samba.
Punk Culture
Punks came onto the scene in the mid 1970s, and were characterized by their aggressive, rebellious stance against the mainstream.
- Doc Marten boots may have been the most iconic footwear of the punk scene, but sneakers still held a significant place in punk fashion.
- Converse Chuck Taylors became a staple in punk fashion and were often customised and scribbled on to create an even more individualised look.
- Many punks added metal spikes to their sneakers to add to their already menacing appearance.
90s Britpop Culture
By the 1990s, sneaker culture had spread to the Britpop music scene.
- The Gallagher brothers of Oasis famously wore Adidas Gazelles both on and off stage.
- Sneakers became more mainstream during the 90s due to the popularity of the Spice Girls and their platform trainers.
- The 90s also saw collaborations between music artists and sneaker brands, most notably the Adidas Superstar endorsed by Run DMC.
Sneaker Collecting
Today, sneaker collecting has become a global phenomenon but its roots can be traced back to the UK.
| Year | Brand | Sneaker |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Nike | Dunk SB |
| 2008 | Adidas | Yeezy Boost 350 |
| 2015 | Jordan | 11 Retro ’72-10′ |
Air Jordans have always had a devoted following in the UK, and sneaker collecting became more organised with the creation of sneaker consignment stores and dedicated websites to help buyers and collectors connect. Sneakers are no longer just a functional piece of footwear, but a cultural symbol of individuality and self-expression.
Sneaker Culture and the British Sneakerhead Community
Sneaker culture has exploded in recent years, and the British sneakerhead community is at the forefront of this movement. From high-profile collaborations to limited-edition drops, sneakers have become more than just footwear – they’re a status symbol and a form of self-expression.
- In the UK, sneakers are often referred to as trainers or kicks.
- The term “sneakerhead” originated in the US, but the culture has spread worldwide and is alive and well in the UK.
- The resale market for sneakers is booming, with some pairs fetching thousands of pounds.
The British sneakerhead community is a diverse and passionate group, with a shared love for sneakers and the culture surrounding them. Here are some key aspects of this community:
- Customization: Many sneakerheads in the UK take pride in customizing their kicks. From painting designs on the shoes to swapping out laces and adding unique details, customization is a way to make a pair of sneakers truly one-of-a-kind.
- Events: In addition to attending sneaker releases, British sneakerheads also gather at events like Sneakerness and Crepe City, where they can buy, sell, and trade sneakers, as well as connect with like-minded individuals.
- Celebrity collaborations: Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma frequently collaborate with celebrities and musicians to create limited-edition sneakers. These collaborations are highly coveted by sneakerheads and often sell out within minutes of their release.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular sneaker brands among British sneakerheads:
| Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Nike | Iconic shoes like Air Max and Air Force 1, high-profile collaborations, and a long history with the UK sneaker scene make Nike a top choice for British sneakerheads. |
| Adidas | The brand’s classic styles like the Superstar and Stan Smith have been popular in the UK for decades, while recent collaborations with artists and musicians have cemented Adidas’ status as a top sneaker brand. |
| New Balance | This brand has a loyal following among UK sneakerheads thanks to comfortable designs and collaborations with UK-based artists and designers. |
Overall, sneaker culture is alive and well in the UK, and the British sneakerhead community is a passionate and diverse group. From high-profile collaborations to customization and events, there’s always something happening in the world of British sneakerheads.
Impact of British sneaker culture on global fashion trends
British sneaker culture has had a huge impact on global fashion trends, influencing not only footwear but also streetwear and high fashion. Here are some ways in which it has made its mark:
- The rise of collaborations: British brands like Adidas and Reebok have teamed up with designers and celebrities to create limited-edition sneakers that generate buzz and sell out quickly. This trend has spread throughout the industry, with brands collaborating with everyone from fashion houses to TV shows.
- The popularity of retro styles: British sneakerheads have a fondness for vintage runners from the 80s and 90s, which has led to a resurgence of these styles in the mainstream market. Brands are reissuing classic models and introducing new ones that are inspired by the past.
- The fusion of high and low fashion: Sneakers have become a status symbol, with luxury brands incorporating them into their collections and making them just as covetable as their handbags and shoes. This has led to a blurring of the lines between streetwear and high fashion.
Beyond these specific trends, British sneaker culture has had a broader influence on the industry as a whole. It has shown that footwear can be a form of self-expression and a way to showcase personality and creativity. It has also demonstrated the power of community, with sneaker enthusiasts forming tight-knit communities online and in real life.
The future of British sneaker culture
As global fashion trends continue to evolve, it’s clear that British sneaker culture will play a significant role in shaping them. With its emphasis on collaboration, authenticity, and individuality, it offers a compelling alternative to more traditional fashion models.
In the coming years, we can expect to see British brands continuing to push boundaries and blur lines. We can also expect to see more mainstream brands taking cues from the underground scene and incorporating elements of British sneaker culture into their own designs.
| Brand | Iconic British Sneaker |
|---|---|
| Adidas | Superstar |
| Reebok | Club C |
| New Balance | 990 |
| Nike | Cortez |
All in all, British sneaker culture has had a lasting impact on fashion and will continue to do so in the years to come. Its influence can be felt across different brands, styles, and subcultures, making it a true force to be reckoned with.
What do Brits call sneakers?
1. What are sneakers called in the UK?
Sneakers are commonly known as trainers in the UK.
2. Is “sneakers” used in the UK at all?
Yes, “sneakers” is sometimes used in the UK, particularly when referring to specific brands or styles.
3. Are there any other names for sneakers in the UK?
Sometimes sneakers are also called “kicks” or “plimsolls” in the UK.
4. Do all Brits call them trainers?
No, some regional variations may use different terms, such as “runners” or “gym shoes.”
5. Are there any cultural differences in the use of these terms?
It’s generally safe to say that “trainers” is the most common term used in the UK, but there may be some cultural differences in the use of the other terms depending on where you are in the country.
6. Is the term “sneakers” becoming more popular in the UK?
There doesn’t appear to be a significant trend towards using “sneakers” over “trainers” in the UK, but it’s possible that this could change in the future.
7. Does it matter which term I use?
Not really, as long as you’re clear about what you mean. “Trainers” is definitely the safest option if you’re unsure.
Closing thoughts
Thanks for reading this article on what Brits call sneakers! Whether you’re a visitor to the UK or a native looking to brush up on your slang, we hope we’ve answered any questions you might have had. Don’t forget to check back for more articles on British culture and language!