You don’t need a PhD in biomechanics to understand why running in loafers might not be a great idea. You’ll look ridiculous for a start, and that’s before we even get started on the myriad physiological problems you’re likely to face. Running can wreak havoc on the human body at the best of times, let alone when the only interface between foot and asphalt is a pair of Bass Weejuns. Is this a problem that needed a solution? Probably not, but the fashion industry has created one anyway. Meet the sneaker loafer.

The mutant lovechild of a slip-on shoe and a running trainer, so-called sneaker loafers are, for better or worse, having a moment. The latest label to join the bandwagon? HOKA. Known for its performance running shoes and maximalist soles, the French brand recently unveiled its take on the sporty loafer at Paris Fashion Week.

The Speed Loafer blurs the boundaries between athletic performance and casual styling. It combines the functional sole of the brand’s Speedgoat trail shoe with a slip-on loafer upper – sleek, futuristic, a bit weird, but unmistakably HOKA.

The sneaker loafer: Gaining traction

For those who aren’t wired into the men’s fashion machine, it may come as a surprise to learn that this isn’t the first shoe of its kind. Last year, New Balance had menswear meme accounts in a frenzy with the release of its 1906L – a ‘loaferised’ (™) spin on the popular 1906 retro running shoe that was debuted as part of Junya Watanabe’s FW24 show. It all felt a bit tongue in cheek at the time. But as the months march on, this strangest of shoes seems to be standing its ground.

Unlike traditional loafers, shoes like the Speed Loafer and the 1906L don’t aim for formality. Far from it. Instead, they’re unashamedly odd, but also practical. Picture something you could comfortably wear for a long-haul flight, a full day of errands, or even a low-key dinner. This isn’t your grandfather’s penny loafer – it’s a shoe designed for movement, comfort, and the in-between moments of everyday life. Must-have item or monstrosity? We’ll leave that up to you to decide.

Are you one of the bold few capable of pulling it off? Then head to the HOKA webstore on January 31st to catch the general release.

Next up: The best trail running shoes for form and function.