The best dad shoes – not just for Father's Day

The “dad shoe” trend has become one of the biggest movements in the sneaker world in recent years. What used to be an ironic, “comfy dad shoe” thing has grown into a cornerstone of streetwear, high fashion and everyday style. Today the best dad shoes aren't just practical footwear – they're deliberate style choices built for everyday comfort and style.

What exactly is the dad shoe trend?

The term dad shoe refers to sneakers with a thick, often oversized sole that borrow heavily from the design language of running shoes from the '80s, '90s and early 2000s. These shoes typically:

• have a chunky, heavy-duty sole,
• use layered materials,
• feature bold, often contrasting details,
• put comfort first.

How the best dad shoes took over fashion

There's a reason dad shoes became such a sought-after category among sneakerheads. Brands quickly realized that reworked versions of retro runners had huge potential.

The return of the retro wave

Fashion keeps reaching back to past decades. '90s sports shoes came back in a new form, combined with modern tech and premium materials.

The rise of streetwear culture

Streetwear isn't an underground trend anymore – it's part of luxury fashion. The chunky sneaker fits perfectly with oversized, relaxed yet carefully put-together outfits.

Comfort comes first

People increasingly want shoes that don't just look good but also work for all-day wear.

The best dad shoes at OnSize

The best models share a few traits that make them stand out from the rest:

New Balance 9060 – the essence of the dad shoe

The New Balance 9060 is a textbook example of what a modern dad shoe looks like. Its thick, characterful sole, bold silhouette and layered upper make it instantly recognizable. It channels both the world of retro runners and contemporary streetwear aesthetics, which is why for many it's one of the core pieces of the whole dad shoe genre.

Comfort is guaranteed too, so you can rock the look all day long. At OnSize you can choose from loads of looks and colorways – come take a look!

ASICS Gel-NYC – dad shoe and Y2K runner in one

The ASICS Gel-NYC sits right where the dad shoe and Y2K runner trends meet. It brings back the vibe of 2000s running shoes while modern details and comfort tech keep the look current. Its layered upper, sporty character and dynamic shape make it easy to work into relaxed streetwear fits, and thanks to Gel technology the comfort is next level.

ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 – from retro runner to dad shoe staple

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 is another defining model of the dad shoe trend. It has running shoe roots but has become one of the most sought-after pairs in sneaker culture. With its technical details, mix of mesh and synthetic panels, and bold yet wearable shape, it's a true staple for anyone after comfort and a retro sporty look at the same time.

Dad shoes for everyone

The dad shoe trend has gone way beyond its original meaning. Today the best dad shoes show up in fashion shoots, are staples for influencers, walk high-fashion runways and are key pieces of everyday streetwear fits.

This type of sneaker isn't tied to an age group anymore. Young people, adults and older folks all wear them, because they deliver style and function at the same time.

So dad shoes don't just represent a trend – they represent a whole new take on balancing comfort and style, and that's exactly the approach you'll find reflected in our lineup.

Don't miss out on the latest dad shoe models! Explore the OnSize lineup and find the perfect pair that blends fashion and comfort. Step into the dad shoe world with OnSize!