Balenciaga continues to push the boundaries of footwear design with the launch of its Reptile Sneaker, following bold releases like the stapled shoe and the Foamposite-inspired basketball sneaker. First previewed during Balenciaga’s fall 2024 show in March, the Reptile Sneaker stands out for its “exaggerated proportions and layering,” a design approach the French fashion house has become known for.
The Reptile Sneaker features a striking, elongated, curved toe and a laceless, slip-on construction, making it one of the brand’s most daring designs to date. The sneaker is crafted from polyurethane and polyester, without the use of leather, creating a layered, mash-up aesthetic as though different sneaker elements were pieced together. Despite its avant-garde appearance, the sneaker has gained attention, even going viral since its debut.
Balenciaga has incorporated several branding elements into the sneaker, including the Balenciaga and 3B Sports logos on the toe and midsole, as well as the Loop Sports logo on the tongue and heel. The European sizing is also prominently displayed on the heel.
The Reptile Sneaker, priced at $1,890, is one of the most expensive models in Balenciaga’s lineup, second only to the rhinestone-adorned 3XL and Triple S Sneakers, which retail for $2,590. It is available in multicolor and black styles on balenciaga.com and at select Balenciaga stores.
