From Style to Comfort: How Gen Z and Millennials Choose Sneakers

February 22, 2026 | 01:00 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Sneakers are no longer just an outfit accessory, but have become part of the identity and lifestyle of the urban generation. Jennifer Japoetra, Product Merchandiser at ASICS Sportstyle Indonesia, explained that the trend of choosing sneakers is evolving. According to her, millennials and Gen Z are no longer just considering attractive designs, but also comfort that can support daily mobility. "Nowadays, young people are looking for shoes that can be worn from morning to night. They want to be comfortable while still having a strong sense of style," she said at a pop-up experience held at Urban Forest Jakarta on February 14, 2026.

She also emphasized the importance of shoe care to ensure their durability. Certain materials, such as mesh, require extra care because they are easily exposed to water or dirt. Using protective products like waterproof spray can help keep shoes clean, especially during the rainy season.

A similar sentiment was echoed by Anindita Sosrodimulyo, Marketing Lead at ASICS Sportstyle Indonesia. She believes that choosing shoes should start with personal preference, rather than simply following current trends. She sees the resurgence of the retro trend as more than just nostalgia. "But also how the younger generation is rediscovering old styles and interpreting them to suit their own character.

Meanwhile, Kimswell touched on the trend in sneaker colors, which tends to return to safer choices like black and white because they're easy to combine with various styles. However, he believes trends remain dynamic and are influenced by many factors, from technology to community preferences. "The goal isn't just to showcase products, but to introduce the creative process behind subcultures, from graffiti to dance to music," Kimswell said.

For musician Jack Alfredo, sneakers have a personal meaning that has been embedded throughout his life. He admitted that sneakers have always been a part of his identity, from his school days until now. "Sneakers keep us relaxed, even in the midst of a fast-paced life," he said.

Jack emphasized that the main tip for choosing sneakers is to choose based on personal preference, not just following hype. He believes that shoes that are truly loved will be more comfortable to wear and better reflect the wearer's character.

He also shared his perspective on styling, noting that sneakers are flexible and can be paired with various outfits. Loose or baggy pants, for example, are his favorite because they create a relaxed yet stylish look. stylish.

Through this casual conversation between industry players and creators, it's clear that sneakers aren't just about fashion, but also about how one expresses themselves and lives their daily lifestyle.

Asics opened a pop-up experience to demonstrate how public spaces can become a meeting place for various elements of fashion, music, community, and personal experiences within a lifestyle ecosystem that resonates with today's urban generation. Kimswell, a collaborator on this pop-up experience, explained that the Urban Playground experience was designed as a space for community exploration. Through various activities such as creative workshops, b-boy performances, and open interaction spaces, visitors are invited to understand how urban subcultures develop.

GHAEIZA KAY RASUFFI

Read: 12 Most Comfortable Sneakers for Traveling the World

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