High-top sneakers for men

Versatile footwear for most of the year

Sneakers have long stopped being footwear just for sport. High-tops go with jeans, chinos and a tracksuit alike. Thanks to the higher collar they hold the ankle better, and in cool weather they also keep it out of the wind. Babylon men's high-top sneakers are handmade from genuine leather and nubuck at our own factory in Kharkiv.

Where high-tops came from

The first models of this kind appeared in the early 20th century as basketball shoes: the high collar held the foot during jumps and sharp turns. In the 1970s and 1980s skateboarders and musicians adopted them, and later everyone who values comfortable, practical footwear followed. The main advantage is comfort, plus durability and the option to wear the pair for most of the year.

Ankle support and practicality

Because the collar covers the ankle, the foot gets better support from the side. Today high-tops are worn mostly for style, but practicality matters too: in rain and slush a high model lets less water and dirt inside. Breakout and Eclipse models have a rubber-coated toe that protects the upper from scuffs, while Eclipse-13 and Eclipse-23 have a zip, so the pair is easy to put on and take off without unlacing.

Models and materials

The range includes pairs in smooth leather (Major-20, Major-21), in nubuck (Michigan-12, Arsenal-14, Bliss-14), in a leather-and-nubuck combination (Space models marked X) and in cotton (Michigan-98). Most models are lined with breathable Italian Respira leather, and the foam rubber insole is covered with leather, so it gradually takes the shape of your foot. Space models marked X suit wide feet — their product pages say so. Every pair is handmade at our factory, in business since 1997, on our own lasts developed for each model. Each product page has a size chart. Shipping is free worldwide and takes 14–20 days; international orders can be returned within 30 days.