GQ.com 'Channel Chuck'

Sneakers, we've worn them on various occasions throughout life. I know I have featured several in the past, especially here on GS, but here is another reminder of how sneakers have evolved over the decades. Now, I'm not talking about the shoes you wear to the bball or tennis court. There's an entire department on that. I'm talking about the more fashionable ones either in casual or dressed up. Nowadays, it's all about high-fashion getting in touch with the streets and the already established brands like Nike and Adidas giving the fashion houses a legitimate challenge. It's not just athletic brands, it's companies like Vans and Converse. They've been around for so long it's about time they put their foot down (excuse the pun) in the realm of sneakers.
(Click image captions for more info)

There's also a different aspect in this game. The high-end labels won't completely alienate those who live on a paycheck-to-paycheck basis. They will do their best to be more approachable. They have also taken the extra step by collaborating with the athletic and more familiar yet affordable brands. Even then, don't rush into things. I cannot stress enough (like I have mentioned countless times before) of how each purchase you make should be treated as an investment. Don't get drawn in by a brand's name or the price. Think quality and longevity. Think of the classics like the Adidas Superstar (I & II), the Nike Cortez or Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars (all former basketball or functional for athletic use shoes). The Chuck Taylor has been mimicked by so many brands it's ridiculous; no matter, high-tops or low-tops.
What you see below are a pair of original Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars of my own. The only thing different about this is that I took the liberty to customize a classic by mixing in some black laces that you see twisted with the original white. It's an idea I picked up from an old friend of mine and we both decided to make these shoes are own and gave them their own identity. His was an all black Chucks. What may come off surprising is that this is a recent a picture of my pair but I bought them back in 2004! That's right, 8 years and still going strong. That's if you love and take care of your investments!
And, of course, now they come in all different color combos and minor altered designs. That's the point I'm trying to make here. Choose something that will stay in your shoe closet for years to come. Choose a classic design, regardless of it being a high-end label or a more affordable brand. Everything needs to coordinate when it comes to wearing the outfit of the day and sneakers are no exception. Make wise choices next time you want to sport the latest on your feet and try something new while you are at it. As wise as it may be to go simple and classic it's almost as important to try unorthodox colors and modern design. Camo/Military green is definitely in, by the way. It never hurts to try something new.

GQ.com A.P.C. + Nike

Yes, men are as crazy as women when it comes to shoes, we just know how to hide it. Wink, wink. Well, most of us...To view the entire slide at GQ.com on these sneakers click here.