People often take for granted how things came to be. Take for instance your most beloved pair of Mille sneakers. The pair that you wear every second day, the pair that you have walked hundreds of miles in. Those sneakers have history and not just your personal history, but a real, in-depth history.

Sneakers are most often thought of as athletic footwear but over the years’ sneakers have become a more casual shoe, one used for everyday activities. Nowadays people can be found wearing their favourite pair of sneakers in the boardroom as well as on the field. Sneakers have been around, in one form or another, since the 18^th century. Originally called plimsolls, these shoes were rubber soled and made without a right or left foot and more commonly worn by poorer people. Over time plimsolls became a favourite with tennis players and croquet players, making them the first ever sports shoe.

In 1892, the U.S. Rubber Company came up with more comfortable rubber sneakers with canvas tops, called Keds. By 1917, these sneakers began to be mass produced. So, where does the name “sneaker” come from? It is said that the rubber sole of the shoe allowed the wearer to walk very quietly and sneak up on others, unlike their wooden bottomed counter parts, and thus sneakers were born.

By the 1920’s sneakers were becoming increasingly popular with athletes who practiced all kinds of sports but more so with basketball players, especially in 1923 when basketball star Chuck Taylor chose to endorse a sneaker brand.  By the time the 1990’s rolled around sneakers were the shoe to be seen in, with basketball players like Michael Jordan being given their very own sneaker. People haven’t looked back since and sneakers have become a much-loved staple in many people’s wardrobes.

Without the invention of the simple plimsoll Millé sneakers would not exist today. We take pride in creating stylish and comfortable sneakers that people from all walks of life can enjoy. From women’s sneakers, to men’s sneakers and even sneakers for kids and infants, Millé has the perfect sneaker for you. To find out more or to view our sneakers, click here.