As a child going to Disney World, there are only two memories that characterize the theme park: long lines and “dad clothes.”

The simple attire is khaki knee-length cargo pants, polo shirt, high white socks and the classic white Nike or New Balance sneakers with a thick orthopedic sole for arch support. 

As ugly and horrid as that outfit sounds, one aspect of it has now become a trend: the shoes. The oversized upper attached to a cushiony, chunky, foam sole is now categorized as fashion. 

Expensive designer brands such as Balenciaga, Gucci and Coach and affordable ones like Nike, Fila and Adidas originated the “dad shoe” in late 2017 to early 2018. From being on the feet of Kendall Jenner, Hailey Baldwin, and Gigi and Bella Hadid, the sneaker design has been made into a debated concept on whether a pair is vital in one’s closet or a piece of garbage. 

I say keep the dad shoes. At first I wasn’t the biggest fan, but after seeing them on other people, I have grown to like them. 

I’ve only seen the shoes on models and a few in person, so I don’t know how bad they look on me, but I do not consider them ugly. When the shoes are photographed alone, they do not get the justice they deserve. 

Having them modeled on someone paired with a good outfit changes everything about them. It makes them look smaller by giving it perspective. 

People don’t like the bulkiness of them, but the weight of the sneakers makes them a statement piece, a way in which shoes are not typically seen. It is what makes the trend so big, since it is giving a different usage to the standard shoe. 

Also, the shoe looks and feels so comfortable; the sole just seems to cushion your foot with each step. 

The one complaint I do have is the price of them; I understand that Balenciaga is a designer brand, but why would someone spend $1,200 on one pair of shoes? But then again, the Triple S by the Italian brand is the best-looking dad shoe that’s out today—just as long as it’s not worn with cargo shorts.