Custom Designed Sneakers

The British English equivalent of "sneaker" is "trainer" in its modern meaning; however, the traditional "sneaker" (pictured) is closer to the British "plimsoll". In some urban areas in the United States, the slang for sneakers are kicks. In Hiberno-English and Australian English the term is runners. In South African English the term used is takkies.
Sneakers have become an important part of hip hop culture since the 70s. Presently, numerous rappers sign million dollar deals with major brands such as Nike, Adidas or Puma to promote their shoes. Sneaker collectors, called "Sneakerheads", use sneakers as fashionable items. Artistically-modified sneakers can sell for upwards of $500.
The name derives from the fact that the rubber soles made the shoes noiseless. The term "sneaker" itself was first used in 1887 by Boston Journal of Education: “It is only the harassed schoolmaster who can fully appreciate the pertinency of the name boys give to tennis shoes — sneakers.”