At Plaeto, we’ve always believed that fresh perspectives can come from anyone — not just industry veterans, but curious young minds too. That’s why we launched the Trailblazers Internship Program: an immersive 8-week journey for students from Grades 9 to 12 who want to explore how a sneaker brand really operates behind the scenes.
They dig deep, ask bold questions, and think like the next generation of innovators. One of the standout projects this season? A look into a classic style debate: Do people actually prefer low tops, mid tops, or high tops in their everyday lives?
The Trailblazers set out to understand which styles of athletic footwear people actually prefer — not just based on trends, but on how they perform in everyday life. Their research involved surveys, interviews, and data crunching, covering athletes, fashion enthusiasts, teenagers, and sneaker lovers alike.
What They Discovered
Culturally:
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High tops are still legendary — closely tied to basketball, hip-hop, and retro streetwear vibes. They’re more about self-expression than sport.
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Low tops are a fashion staple. Easy to pair with any outfit, they’ve become the go-to for casual wear and everyday looks.
Usage-wise:
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Low tops took the lead. They’re lightweight, breathable, and ideal for everyday activities — from workouts to walks.
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Mid tops found their niche among trail athletes and indoor sports lovers who need ankle support but don’t want the bulk of high tops.
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High tops? Great for the court, but not everyone’s first choice for daily wear.
Why It Matters
This wasn’t just a school project — it was real consumer research. The findings give brands a clear view of how silhouette preferences change across age groups, lifestyles, and even regions. It’s already helping Plaeto shape upcoming collections that strike the perfect balance between style and function.
Whether it's designing more versatile running shoes for men sports or creating sleek men casual shoes that keep up with the day, the Trailblazers’ insights are showing us the way.
These young minds proved that asking the right questions can lead to game-changing answers. And at Plaeto, we’re listening.
Want to see sneakers shaped by real conversations and real people? Check out our latest collections at plaeto.in
