Sneakers during Black Friday

Leather, suede or canvas: which material for winter

As winter approaches, smooth leather is the safest material: it withstands light rain, cleans easily with a sponge, and develops a patina over time, much like Italian sneakers Pantofola d'Oro. Suede, found on Asics Gel-NYC and many Gola, offers a warm texture but is sensitive to water: a waterproof spray applied before the first outing prevents stains. The canvas of the Victoria remains comfortable in dry weather but gets wet quickly, while the mesh of running-inspired models lets in the cold air. Black Friday, at the end of November, falls just when people pick out their pair for the cold months.

The other lifestyle offers

The Black Friday lifestyle is also available:

• Boots and Booties.
• Coats and Jackets.
• Sweatshirts and Jumpers.
• T-shirts and Polos.
• Trousers and Jeans.
• Underwear.

All offers are gathered on the lifestyle page.

Gola and Pantofola d'Oro: sneakers born from football

Several retro sneaker brands come from football fields. Gola, founded in 1905 in England, initially made hand-stitched leather football boots; its name, adopted in the 1930s, is an anagram of "goal". Its models with side stripes, like the Daytona in kids' size, cultivate this British heritage. Pantofola d'Oro traces back to a shoemaker established in 1886 in Ascoli Piceno, Italy. In the 1950s, Emidio Lazzarini made custom football boots there, so soft that Welsh forward John Charles compared them to "golden slippers". Its sneakers, like the Vasto, continue this Italian leather craftsmanship.

Cleaning sneakers according to their material

The cleaning process depends on the material of the upper. Smooth leather is cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap, then nourished with a colourless cream to prevent cracking. Suede is brushed dry, against the grain, with a crepe brush that raises the nap; a special eraser removes stains. Canvas can be hand washed in warm soapy water, using an old toothbrush for the seams. White soles regain their shine with a bit of bicarbonate. In all cases, let them air dry, away from the radiator that can peel off the soles, with white paper inside to maintain shape.

Kids' sneakers: Velcro, laces and size

For a child, the sneaker should be lightweight, flexible at the forefoot, and provide good support at the heel. Before six or seven years old, the age when they learn to tie their laces, Velcro closures or slip-on models help them be independent. The canvas of Victoria kids, dyed or washed, and the Gola Daytona Pure easily transition to soapy water after recess, while Asics in GS size take on the cushioning of adult models. Regarding size, measure the foot standing up, at the end of the day, and leave about a centimetre in front of the toes: beyond that, the shoe floats and wears out quickly. A young child's foot often gains a size in just a few months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to prevent the soles of your sneakers from yellowing?

Yellowing comes from the oxidation of rubber, accelerated by sunlight, heat, and washing powder residues. Rinse thoroughly after each wash and dry in the shade; a paste of bicarbonate and water reduces light yellowing.

Are Buffalo platform sneakers comfortable?

Yes, Buffalo platforms rest on a thick yet lightweight sole, which cushions walking and isolates from the cold ground in winter. You quickly get used to them; just avoid the tallest models for driving or very long walks.

Are DC Shoes suitable for skating?

Yes, DC Shoes originated in 1994 in California in the world of skateboarding: their models have a sole that grips the board and a reinforced upper against wear. The Court Graffik, padded around the ankle, is also great for everyday wear.

Ecco or Skechers: which brand for long walks?

Ecco, a Danish brand established in 1963, works with its own leathers and anatomical soles, valued for long days. Skechers focuses on memory foam insoles and, on the Uno Golden Air, a visible air cushion at the heel.

How to choose your sneaker size online?

Measure the length of your foot in centimeters, heel against a wall, then refer to the brand's size guide. Canvas tennis shoes often fit true to size, while padded models tend to run larger: choose the bigger size if you're between two.