“Dad shoes” are typically thought of as white, thick-soled, chunky, absurdly comfortable sneakers. In other words? Uncool. Boring. Not stylish. As our new sneaker columnist asserts, it’s time to reclaim and redefine the term. It’s never been easier to score cool kicks. Apps from the big brands like Nike and Adidas as well as secondary market services like StockX and GOAT make it simple to browse thousands of styles. GOAT and StockX even have a ‘below retail’ function that allows you to shop for shoes that are selling for below their original MSRP. No, he’s not suggesting you spend a fortune on your sneakers. Or for you to become a full-on sneaker head. He’s simply asking that we all spend a bit more time finding ways to help us dress like we give a damn and move more confidently through the world. A great pair of sneakers can do the trick.

STYLE

Redefining “Dad Shoes”

Some would have you believe that dad shoes are comfortable sneakers that are also chunky and ugly. They’re wrong.

TIPS AND TRICKS

Three Ways to Keep Your Sneakers Looking (and Smelling) New:

Exterior
It really is magic: the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is perfect for keeping white leather shoes and soles fresh. Submerge the Magic Eraser in water, and use it to buff out any dirt and shine up your shoes’ exterior. If there are any persistent stain, brush them off with a toothbrush dipped in soapy water.

Interior
There are plenty of shoe sprays on the market, but if you don’t have one, you can use something that’s probably in your laundry room. Put a scented dryer sheet in your shoes has a twofold effect: the scent will leave your shoes’ interior smelling like fresh laundry, plus it’ll help soak up any excess moisture that’s built up in your shoe.

Laces
You can always buy new laces, but if you’re feeling DIY, soak the laces in a mix of vinegar, baking soda, and water. When they’re fully saturated, remove them from the mixture and let them hang on a dryer rack for half an hour. Then agitate them in a bowl of soapy water, rinse, an let them hang dry. Don’t soak them in bleach, as the bleach can damage the fibers.

FURTHER READING

PLAY

The New Arcade Fire Is a Perfect Bittersweet Catharsis For Parents Everywhere

Cry like you mean it.

TRAVEL

Skyland Has the Secluded Chill You Only Find at a National Park Lodge

Other than cell service and Wi-Fi, the 127-year-old resort remains gloriously free of modernity.

FURTHER READING

PARENTING

How to Get Your Kids (And Yourself) Comfortable With Risky Play

Risky play is crucial for kids. Here’s what it should look like.

STYLE

This 1945 Pilot Chronograph Is Vintage Style at a Shockingly Low Price Point

Dan Henry's newest limited release is the perfect entry point watch.

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