In Spain, the word “sneakers” can be described using various terms, each with regional variations. Here’s an analysis of some common Spanish terms used in Spain to refer to this type of footwear.
- Zapatillas: In Spain is a generic term for sports or casual footwear. It can refer to both sports sneakers and home slippers. While zapato is shoe, zapatilla is sneaker.
- Tenis: In some regions of Spain people commonly refer to “sneakers” simply as “tenis“, probably because originally were used by tennis players. Now is for everynone.
- Playeras or Playeros are other terms used especially in the north of Spain. It is associated with “playa” (beach) but they are used not only by the sea.
- Bambas: This term is primarily used in regions like Catalonia and Valencia and it comes from an old sneakers brand name “Wamba“.
- Deportivos or Deportivas are common terms to refer to sports sneakers ( a shortening “zapatillas deportivas”).
Have a look also at the map of sneakers in Spanish from America
