If you’re chasing PBs, then one of the top considerations when buying new running shoes might be stack height. If, however, the only thing you’re sprinting for is the bus, then your sole searching is likely to be on a different scale. Because, while those competing in running events are probably looking for the maximum amount of cushioning they can legally wedge under their feet – 40mm, according to the World Athletics regulations – those dipping a toe into the leisure market are keeping things decidedly down to Earth.

Case in point, Common Projects’ latest silhouette, the Driving Lo Profile. Even from a brand known for its minimalist aesthetic, this cult hit, inspired by traditional driving shoes, takes stripped back to the next level. Although it should be noted that reasons for wearing them are not thin on the ground.

For one, it taps into that sweet spot recently held by adidas Originals’ Samba – a handsome, retro shoe that will go with anything. But this latest crop of sneakers make the Samba look clumpy by comparison (the sportswear giant’s Japan line might be closer to the mark).

“This is definitely the most important release from Common Projects in years,” Benedict Browne, MR PORTER’s Style Director, says of the Driving Lo Profile. “They’re elevated, modern and sleek – and that combination could well pip the Sambas for that primo top spot.”

“There is a general move from the ‘chunky’ silhouettes – probably peaking with the Balenciaga Triple S – to a sleeker, more 1970s track shoe type of shape,” says Lauren Cochrane, senior fashion writer for The Guardian and author of The Ten. “It’s probably a ripple effect of Sambas, and also other shoes that followed them like the Onitsuka Tiger or the Puma Speedcat. If the Samba is no longer so ubiquitous, its effect is there nonetheless – in the shape and vibe.”

“Consumers have grown tired of chunky casual sneakers – which were fitting in less and less as the trend cycle in apparel began to favour more stylised and formal dressing post-pandemic – and have begun looking for lower profile, slimmer footwear to fit the new normal,” says Daniel-Yaw Miller, the award-winning journalist who runs the Substack SportsVerse. “Now the trend has spread across the whole industry, with brands almost exclusively putting forward new footwear, which fits the lower-profile model.”

Miller, too, notes how leisurewear and athletic sneakers are treading very different paths these days. “This divergence between casual and performance footwear is again a hallmark of post-pandemic fashion – people want different identities for different purposes, rather than a one-silhouette-fits-all feel.”

“Many brands are giving their own take on the Lo Pro style,” says Kit Swann, Fashion Editor at MR PORTER. “Dries Van Noten has gone down an old-school sporty route, using polished leathers and suedes. Other high-end brands, such as Maison Margiela, are using nylon and bringing a focus on grip with their rubber soles.”

So, how should you wear them? “Generally straight or wide-leg cuts give the best results with this kind of shoe,” Swann says. “I would personally opt for wide-leg, tailored trousers, something made from a light material that won’t cloak the sneaker. I like the mix of formality and sportiness. With a lighter fabric, they should sit really well on top of the shoe, covering up enough as to not make them a statement, but will show enough of the shoe to get appreciation for the design and materials used.”

That said, the beauty of this style is that it should work with most outfit options. “Anything goes – bar skinny trousers,” Browne says.

“These shoes were popular in the indie sleaze era, so I think you need to be a bit careful to avoid looking like a throwback,” Cochrane says. “No skinny jeans – and probably not anything cropped. They would look nice with a wide-ish chino or straight-leg jeans. Cords or something similar could look too retro. It might be fun to have a sport sock or a more understated choice – such as these Mr P. ribbed style – could work as a contrast.”

“Always socks,” Browne adds, should anyone be thinking of going without. “And if in doubt, follow the trouser – a tonal sock and trouser combination always looks thought-out, despite being easiest.” It’s definitely a step in the right direction.