The running boom and buckle sandals are among the footwear industry’s biggest bets, while versatility is expected to guide consumer demand, specialists say
Men’s consumers are expected to expand their footwear options for upcoming collections. Increasingly focused on performance, shoppers are looking for styles that combine design, personality, and comfort. According to specialists from the footwear industry, running-inspired footwear and easy-on styles are set to gain even more prominence, alongside buckle sandals, which are expected to remain a strong trend throughout the summer.
The analysis is based on the Summer collections presented by exhibitors from across the country at the 6th edition ofBFSHOW, The biggest footwear tradeshow in Latin America, which serves as a trend thermometer and a major showcase for Brazilian footwear. Among the most sought-after launches, the sports segment stands out as a leading category. As running continues to grow as a lifestyle, footwear that delivers comfort, practicality, and performance is becoming the main focus for brands.
A The Red NoseRed Nose, an icon in the streetwear segment, has developed a running-focused line featuring rubber soles while maintaining the standards already validated by consumers and positioning the collection toward the premium market. “We are following a wave the market has been riding, with four launches, and the public response at the trade show has been excellent,” says sales manager Max Franca. Also seeking innovation through its color palette, the brand is now investing in earthy tones, moving away from the traditional black-and-white combination.
Performance advancements are also on the radar of the soccer cleats market. Designed to meet the demand for consistent performance on indoor courts, the Topper is launching the Lethal Grafeno, which introduces, for the first time in futsal, the combination of graphene and EVA — materials that offer greater resistance to physical wear and impact from movement. During the trade show, the line was endorsed by influencer and content creator Fagner da Silva, known as O Boleiro, who has more than 3 million followers across social media platforms. “It’s a full package for those who love futsal and are looking for even greater performance on the court. It’s definitely a technology that is here to stay,” he says.
Practicality remains a non-negotiable pillar for men. While easy-on footwear styles were once sought after mainly by the silver generation, they now represent an intergenerational demand. Brands such as Ferracini and Jota Pe are investing in footwear with durable uppers made from genuine leather and more flexible soles. The proposal is to allow hands-free wear, offering greater adaptability and safety in everyday life without giving up a casual style. Shades of white, off-white, and gray stand out as favorites in Ferracini’s Flow collection, while classic black leather remains dominant at Jota Pe.
Another trend that is here to stay is buckle sandals, inspired by major names in international fashion. A hit in Summer 26, the styles are expected to continue dominating the next season, driven by their versatility when paired with different looks. Kenner is betting on the Rakka A-Just, created in collaboration with rapper FBC, featuring earthy tones on both the uppers and soles while maintaining the brand’s laid-back and authentic identity.
Even Democratatraditionally recognized for its classic dress shoes, has embraced the trend and exclusively presented models from its upcoming collection during BFSHOW, with products set to arrive in stores starting in September. “If last summer was already a boom, sandals are becoming even stronger now. With the expansion of this style across Brazil, we have expanded our production line, investing in bold soles, lightweight designs, and insoles focused on comfort without giving up the standards expected by our consumers. Expectations are high, and we are already seeing excellent acceptance among male consumers,” says commercial director Marcelo Paludetto.
