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Primary Design: They are characterized by a flexible, often cushioned sole made of dense rubber or synthetic materials, which provides comfort and shock absorption. The rubber sole is historically the feature that gave them the name "sneakers" because it allowed the wearer to "sneak" quietly, unlike hard-soled leather shoes.
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Upper Materials: The upper part of the shoe is typically made from lighter, more flexible materials such as canvas, mesh, leather, or various synthetic fabrics, often designed for breathability.
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Purpose: While their initial purpose was athletic, they are now also widely worn for casual, everyday comfort and as a fashion statement.
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Variety: The term "sneaker" is very broad and includes many styles, such as running shoes, trainers, basketball shoes, and lifestyle sneakers, which vary greatly in design, features, and level of specialized performance.