“履くたびに思い出す一足を”|スニーカー プレゼントで伝わる大人のセンス

"A pair of sneakers that you'll remember every time you wear them" | A gift that conveys adult taste

"I want something matching" or "I want to give something special for an anniversary" -- matching sneakers are increasingly being chosen for such occasions.
Since shoes are something you wear every day, they're easy to incorporate into your wardrobe without feeling self-conscious, and the appeal is that they give off a casual, matching look.
Recently, it seems that more and more people are giving sneakers as gifts for birthdays, trips, Christmas, etc.

On the other hand, there are many cases where things don't work out because the size doesn't fit or your design preferences are slightly different.
In fact, we often hear people say things like, "It was a little tight" or "It was hard to match with clothes."

This article summarizes the appeal and things to be careful about when giving a gift of such casually matching sneakers, including some actual stories of mistakes.
This book is perfect for those who are thinking of giving gifts, as well as those who just want to enjoy matching outfits casually.

table of contents

Why sneakers are popular with both genders

Giving sneakers as a gift actually requires more style than you might think.
It's not too flashy, but still memorable. Finding that "just right balance" is difficult.
That's why unisex models are easy to choose. They come in a range of sizes, from women's to men's, and many of them have subdued designs. They're easy to use, regardless of who you're giving them to.

Sneakers may be the fashion item that we see the most in our daily lives.
Since you'll be wearing them every time you commute to work, on your days off, or for a quick outing, the comfort and ease of use will be more memorable than you'd imagine.

I once bought the same series of sneakers in a different color before a business trip.
Both are highly functional and easy to match with any outfit. As I got used to wearing them, I began to feel that I was making the right choice.
Sneakers are like a gift that grows with time. They look great not only when they're new, but also after they've been worn in.
That's why I think it's chosen as a simple gift that can be enjoyed for a long time.

The appeal of sneaker giveaways

I think sneakers are one of the few items that balance design and practicality.
It's not too flashy, but not too plain either. That "just right" quality may be why it makes a great gift.
Recently, unisex models have been on the rise, and it's great that many of them are suitable for both men and women. It's great to be able to give them to anyone.

Now that casual fashion has become more prevalent, sneakers are worn in all sorts of situations, such as commuting to work, on weekends, or even going to the gym.
"Can be used every day" and "Can be worn for a long time" -- it is precisely because of these practical features that they make such satisfying gifts.
One of the attractions is that the recipient can use it right away.

In addition, more and more people are enjoying the "link style," which involves buying the same model in different sizes.
Even with the same design, just changing the color or material can bring out each individual's individuality.
I think sneakers are a gift that creates memories in your everyday life, including the process of them becoming more comfortable with each wear.

Common mistakes and solutions

When giving sneakers as a gift, it's better to think about the occasion in which they will be worn rather than the design.
Even if you like the look of it, if it doesn't fit the situation you're using it in, you'll end up using it less.
No matter how carefully you choose, there will be times when things go wrong in unexpected ways. Here we will list some common mistakes.

Pitfalls in choosing the right size

Sizing varies slightly depending on the brand.
Sometimes, if you choose the same size as you normally wear, it may end up being a little small and painful.
If you buy online, be sure to check the reviews for comments such as "slightly large" or "small" to be safe.

Design Direction

What the giver thinks is "cool" may seem "a little flashy" to the recipient.
Thick soles and vivid colors are especially divisive, so it's best to choose shoes while keeping in mind the other person's usual attire.

Gap with application

You can choose a lightweight running model for everyday wear around town, or use outdoor models for commuting.
If the function and purpose do not match, it may be difficult to use.
You'll be less likely to make a mistake if you choose by imagining the kind of occasion you want the person to wear them in.

Common cases

  • I chose it because of its design, but it was too heavy and unsuitable for commuting.
  • The size was wrong and it took time to exchange.
  • It was too casual to wear to work.

But I think these "little mistakes" are also part of the gift.
This can also give you insight into the other person's preferences and lifestyle.
Rather than perfection, a gift that conveys the time you took to choose it with the recipient in mind will be a much more memorable gift.

Tips for gifting sneakers

When giving sneakers as a gift, what's surprisingly important may be "usability" and "timing" rather than appearance. No matter how stylish a pair of sneakers are, if they're not comfortable or don't suit the occasion, they won't be worn often.
In that sense, I think you'll make fewer mistakes if you keep in mind three things: size, design, and timing of handing it over.

Choose your size carefully

Just a difference of 0.5cm can completely change the way your shoes feel when you wear them.
It's a good idea to find out what brand and model the other person usually wears.
Comments in reviews such as "a little small" and "roomy" are surprisingly not to be underestimated.

Does it fit into your everyday style?

For those who tend to wear a lot of monochrome, white or gray is easy to match, and for those who want to show off a bit more individuality, something with a change in material or stripes would be a good choice.
If you want to be able to wear them to work, subdued materials like leather or nubuck are a good choice.

Be flexible in how you give gifts

It's nice to give it as a surprise, but it's also nice to choose it together.
The time spent talking while trying on clothes will be a lasting memory.
It's almost like the time you spend choosing a present already becomes the present.

Imagine the usage scenario

If you think about the occasions in which you will wear your shoes, such as commuting, holidays, or travel, the shoes you choose will naturally narrow down.
If you choose a design that blends into everyday life rather than something flashy, people will often wear it for a long time.

The sneakers will remind you of the giver every time you wear them.
It's modest, yet has a presence.
If you can choose a pair like that, I think it's already a very tasteful gift.

Summary: A practical gift for adults

Sneakers are a timeless item that transcends trends and gender.
The design is not too flashy and fits into everyday life, making it a classy gift for adults.

Even if there are slight differences in size or preferences, it can be a conversation starter.
Rather than striving for perfection, choosing a pair of shoes that suits the recipient's lifestyle will ultimately result in a pair that will be loved for a long time.

Models available in both women's and men's sizes make them easy to choose and fit for anyone.
The act of giving sneakers is itself a simple and sincere expression of feelings.
It is now attracting attention once again as a gift that exudes adult taste.

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