In a menswear landscape once ruled by punchy logos and athletic soles, a very different voice is making itself heard. It doesn’t follow fads, and it’s not associated with a particular sport, yet it has all the hallmarks of a classic. Meet the “non-trainer trainer” - a movement championed by discerning dressers and quietly perfected by brands like Santoni, who we’re proud to carry here at Robert Old.
What is a Non-Trainer Trainer?
The term might sound like a contradiction, but the concept is clear: it’s a trainer that doesn’t behave like a typical trainer. Think premium materials, understated design, and smart-casual adaptability. It’s footwear for the man who values comfort, but isn’t willing to sacrifice style or craftsmanship to get it.
Rather than neon soles and tech-laden uppers, the non-trainer trainer favours muted tones, natural leathers, and traditional shoemaking. These aren’t the kind of sneakers you throw on to mow the lawn - they’re the kind you wear with tailored trousers and a lightweight blazer, or to elevate a weekend ensemble without looking overdressed.
This is footwear for life’s in-between moments: city breaks, casual Fridays, dinner with friends. Stylish, but not flashy.
The Santoni Difference
Santoni is no stranger to the art of blending heritage and innovation. Founded in 1975 and still proudly made in Italy, the brand has always prioritised craftsmanship - hand-finished detailing, buttery leather, and a construction-first approach that puts longevity and fit at the heart of every pair.
Their sneaker collection is a showcase of what makes the non-trainer trainer so appealing.
As much as we recommend browsing our full range of Santoni, we couldn’t help but choose some favourites from the current collection:
Dark Brown Leather Low-Top Sneaker
Refined and richly textured, this pair is crafted from aged calf leather with a stitched rubber sole. Clean lines and a classic silhouette make it a go-to for pairing with dark chinos or tailored denim.
Stone Beige Tumbled Leather Sneaker
This understated neutral trainer features softly pebbled leather and an all-beige palette for a contemporary, tonal look. An ideal match for lightweight suiting or natural linen.
Dark Brown Double Buckle Tumbled Leather Sneaker
Combining Santoni’s classic double monk styling with the comfort of a sneaker, this model is lined in cashmere and subtly accented with aged brass hardware. Equal parts smart and laid-back.
White, Grey & Blue ‘Oly’ Double Buckle Sneaker
A modern reinterpretation of a court trainer, this mixed suede and leather design offers just enough contrast to lift an otherwise pared-back outfit.
Each model is handcrafted in Italy on a generous F-width last and noted to fit approximately half a size large - so you may wish to size down for the perfect fit, or call into our Bournemouth store to ensure you’ve got the right size before purchase.
Why It Works Now
The non-trainer trainer trend reflects a broader shift in how men dress today: more fluid, more adaptable, and more attuned to quality. As travel returns, hybrid working continues, and dress codes relax, footwear needs to flex with the moment.
But this isn’t just about convenience. These shoes speak to the rising interest in quiet luxury - an aesthetic that values discretion, neutral palettes, and wardrobe staples that wear in, not out. Santoni’s sneakers fit seamlessly into that mindset: elegant, comfortable, and built to last.
How to Wear Them
The beauty of Santoni’s trainers lies in their versatility. A few ideas for your wardrobe:
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With tailoring: Pair the dark brown leather sneaker with charcoal wool trousers and an unstructured blazer for a relaxed yet polished look.
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Weekend-ready: Try the beige tumbled leather style with Jacob Cohen jeans and a crisp white shirt - perfect for Sunday brunch or city strolls.
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Travel attire: The Oly double buckle design is ideal for airport-to-hotel dressing, offering easy comfort without compromising on presentation.
In a market saturated with hype-driven releases and fast fashion, the non-trainer trainer offers a refreshing alternative. It’s a considered choice - an investment in comfort, craftsmanship, and quiet confidence. And with Santoni’s Italian pedigree and impeccable standards, it’s a choice that will serve its wearer for years to come.
