Platform sneakers | Elevate your festival ‘fit

Summer is in full-swing, and what better way to enjoy it than at the centre point of music and culture. I’m talking about good old festivals. Festival fashion has seen its fair share of highs and lows over the past decade, from obnoxiously bright neons to lairy bucket hats. As we get into the rhythm of the most hyped events of the year, we’ve noticed a new trend plummeting into both the crowds and on the stage, the rebirth of PLATFORM SNEAKERS. Love them or hate them, platform sneakers will put you head and shoulders above the rest. Even slider sandals are welcoming an elevated form, as we’ve seen with the adidas Originals Stan Smith Mule. Platform sneakers are here to stay – take a look at our top picks across Nike, adidas, Puma & Converse.

Nike

If you’re wanting to kill two birds with one stone by standing out from the crowd whilst looking over their heads (securing a better view of your favourite artist), platform sneakers are your best friend. This SS23, Nike is bringing us a range of raised silhouettes to perfectly compliment your festival ‘fit. Iconic models such as the Nike Blazer Low Platform and Nike Air Force 1 PLT.AF.ORM combine timeless style with a heightened outsole especially ideal for the ‘less-is-more’ wearers. 

However, if you resonate with a ‘more-is-more’ approach, the Nike Dunk High Up might just be your next obsession. Flaunting ‘80s basketball nostalgia, these kicks are sure to give your festival ‘fit the step up that it needs. Shop the full range via the banner below.

Adidas

The 3-Stripe powerhouse is no stranger to a festival-worthy fashion moment, crystal clear within their selection of platform sneakers. Kicking off with the Gazelle Bold Shoes; a model that certainly lives up to its name. Featuring a uniquely stacked rubber sole, this retro-inspired creation is truly festival-coded, arriving in an array of fun colourways. 

In other ‘bold’ news, we present you with the Forum Bold Shoes. This off white, muted pastel colourway is perfect for long days of raving in the sunshine. Whether you’re more of a Glasto-goer or Reading-raver, you can’t go wrong with a classic silhouette that’s reimagined through innovation. The dimensional outsole of the Stan Smith Bonega 2B makes a statement whilst red and green accents bring the heat that you need to fuel your festival look. Shop the full range of adidas platforms via the banner below.

Puma

In an ideal world we would return from our 3-day raving hiatus with our trainers in the exact condition they left the house in. But more times than not, that isn’t quite the case. You really can’t go wrong with an all black pair of kicks as a staple through festival season. Take it from us. The Karmen Rebelle Sneakers can be styled with any outfit to give you the edge you’re after, adorned with gold foil branding. 

Both the Carina Street Sneakers and Mayze Archive Remastered utilise heightened soles to generate an OG-streetwear-type-of-vibe. Think a pair of denim jorts and an oversized graphic tee. Click the banner below for to shop the full range of Puma’s platforms.

Converse

Converse is best known for its consistency across decades, showcasing timeless appeal through a strong brand identity. Unsurprisingly, Converse have been dominating the festival footwear game for years, making an appearance in a hugely diverse range of subcultures. Thanks to the likes of the Chuck 70 AT-CX and the Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Platform Canvas, you can now enjoy your favourite Converse silhouettes with a lifted reimagining – the cherry on top to your festival ‘fit. 

If you prefer to go a little bit outside of the box, don’t panic, we haven’t forgotten about you. It doesn’t get much more experimental than the Run Star Motion CX Platform, a playful model that will have you looking down at your feet mid-festival, questioning if you’ve taken it too far. The Run Star is for those who embrace the fun of imagination, and dare to try something different. Click the banner below to shop the full range of Converse platform sneakers.

 

New Balance

Known for a sleek ability to blend innovation with archival silhouettes, New Balance isn’t afraid of prioritising comfort and durability – two things you’re DEFINITELY going to want in a festival sneaker. A stacked midsole makes for an exaggerated look, particularly complimented by the curved front of the New Balance 574+.

The New Balance CT302 takes on a tennis court silhouette for a timeless look that’s bound to be a crowd pleaser at a festival (pardon the pun). Whether a black leather vibe is up your street, or you’d prefer something a little bit more light and airy, the CT302 covers all bases. And of course, with any New Balance comes an indisputable degree of quality and support, which you’ll be needing when plodding through fields and skanking ’til the AM. Click the banner below to shop the available New Balance platform sneakers.

Stay locked on our socials @thedropdate for the latest drops and sneaker updates.