Gucci Rhyton vs. Balenciaga Triple S: Which one is better?

The Gucci Rhyton and the Balenciaga Triple S are two of the most recognizable chunky sneakers in luxury fashion, but they serve very different aesthetics. The Rhyton channels a refined, vintage-inspired '90s look with premium leather and classic branding, while the Triple S is an avant-garde statement piece that pioneered the exaggerated, multi-layered sneaker trend.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which iconic sneaker deserves a spot in your collection.

Gucci Rhyton

The Rhyton is Gucci's answer to the chunky sneaker trend, delivered with the brand's signature Italian luxury. It features a retro silhouette crafted from high-quality leather, avoiding the mixed-media complexities of its competitors in favor of a clean, premium, and substantial look. With its oversized sole and prominent side branding, it's a bold yet surprisingly versatile design.

• What it is: A luxury chunky sneaker with a retro-inspired silhouette and vintage aesthetics.
• Key features: Thick rubber sole, premium leather construction, and various signature Gucci motifs like logotypes, web stripes, or illustrative prints depending on the model.
• Price: Ranges from $870 to $950 USD.
• Materials/Construction: Primarily crafted from high-quality Italian leather or suede with a durable, oversized rubber sole for a comfortable and solid feel underfoot.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size for most people, though its chunky design can feel slightly roomy. Stick to your standard size unless you are between sizes, in which case you might consider going down half a size.
• Pros: Excellent craftsmanship and premium materials, more timeless and versatile design, less polarizing than the Triple S, fits true to size for easy online ordering.
• Cons: A more subtle statement than the Triple S, the high price point remains a consideration.

This sneaker is ideal for those seeking a luxury statement piece that leans classic and refined rather than purely trend-driven.

Shop this product: gucci.com/us/en/ca/men/shoes-for-men/sneakers-for-men/rhyton

Balenciaga Triple S

The Balenciaga Triple S is the shoe that defined the modern chunky sneaker wave when it debuted in 2017. Its name comes from its signature triple-stacked sole, molded from three different sport shoe archetypes - running, basketball, and track & field. This multi-layered, oversized sneaker is intentionally bold, deconstructed, and impossible to ignore.

• What it is: An iconic, high-fashion oversized sneaker with a distinctive triple-layered sole that set the standard for modern streetwear luxury.
• Key features: Exaggerated three-layer sole, complex multi-panel upper with mixed materials, embroidered size detail on the toe, and prominent Balenciaga branding.
• Price: Typically ranges from $950 to $1,200 USD.
• Materials/Construction: A complex mix of technical mesh, nubuck, and calfskin leather creates a layered, textured look built on its signature rubber sole.
• Sizing/Fit: Notoriously runs large. It's almost universally recommended to size down one full size for a proper fit. The shoe is also quite heavy due to its construction.
• Pros: Instantly recognizable and culturally significant design, a true statement piece, durable construction built to last, embodies an avant-garde fashion aesthetic.
• Cons: High price point, oversized fit runs large and requires sizing down, its unapologetically bold style is less versatile, and the weight can be noticeable.

This sneaker is for the fashion-forward individual who wants a bold, trend-defining piece that embodies the peak of streetwear culture.

Shop this product: balenciaga.com/en-us/men/shoes/sneakers/triple-s

Gucci Rhyton vs. Balenciaga Triple S Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The primary difference lies in their fashion statement. The Gucci Rhyton offers a '90s-inspired, retro-chic vibe. It's chunky but maintains elegance through its smooth leather and relatively clean lines, making it easily pairable with everything from jeans to smart trousers. It's a luxury sneaker that enhances an outfit without completely dominating it.

In contrast, the Balenciaga Triple S is the entire outfit's focal point. Its deconstructed, oversized, and aggressively layered design is pure avant-garde streetwear. Where the Rhyton whispers luxury nostalgia, the Triple S shouts contemporary high-fashion disruption. It's less a versatile sneaker and more a wearable piece of design history.

Fit & Sizing

Fit is a crucial point of difference. The Gucci Rhyton follows standard sizing conventions and fits true to size for most, making it a reliable choice for online purchase. Its interior is structured and supportive, consistent with traditional high-quality leather footwear.

The Balenciaga Triple S fit is unconventional. It runs significantly large, and sizing down a full size is the standard recommendation. Beyond its length, the shoe is wide and heavy, which is part of its signature feel but can be jarring if you're not expecting it. Trying these on before purchasing is highly advised to get the fit right.

Quality & Materials

Both sneakers are manufactured to high luxury standards, but their material philosophy differs. Gucci focuses on classic luxury materials, using supple, high-grade Italian leather for the Rhyton's upper. The construction feels solid, premium, and traditional.

Balenciaga opts for a technical, modern approach, blending athletic mesh with nubuck and leather panels. This complex construction adds to its visual appeal and durability, though it's more aligned with high-end athletic gear than classic shoemaking. The Triple S is robust and built to withstand urban wear.

Price & Value

Both sneakers occupy the top tier of the designer sneaker market. The Gucci Rhyton is usually the more accessible of the two, typically priced between $870 and $950. The Balenciaga Triple S generally commands a higher price, starting around $950 and often exceeding $1,200.

In terms of value, the choice is subjective. The Rhyton's more timeless design may offer better long-term style longevity. The Triple S's value is tied to its cultural cachet and status as an iconic piece of fashion history, justifying its higher price for those invested in hype culture and streetwear trends.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both are excellent luxury sneakers, but they cater to very different wearers.

Choose the Gucci Rhyton if:

• You prefer a tasteful, retro-inspired aesthetic over an overt streetwear look.
• You value classic luxury materials like high-quality Italian leather.
• You want a versatile chunky sneaker that can be dressed up or down.
• You prefer a simple online shopping experience with true-to-size fitting.

Choose the Balenciaga Triple S if:

• You want to make a bold, unapologetic fashion statement.
• You are a dedicated follower of streetwear trends and hype culture.
• The avant-garde, deconstructed look resonates with your personal style.
• You don't mind the heavier weight and unconventional sizing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between the Gucci Rhyton and Balenciaga Triple S?

The main difference is their aesthetic. The Gucci Rhyton is a retro-inspired luxury sneaker with a classic, refined feel. The Balenciaga Triple S is a bold, trend-setting streetwear icon defined by its oversized, multi-layered sole.

Which sneaker is more expensive?

The Balenciaga Triple S is generally more expensive, with prices typically ranging from $950 to $1,200, while the Gucci Rhyton usually costs between $870 and $950.

How do the sizes fit?

The Gucci Rhyton fits true to size for most. The Balenciaga Triple S runs very large, and it is almost always recommended to buy one full size smaller than your usual size.

Which one is more comfortable?

Comfort is subjective. Both are comfortable due to their thick, cushioned soles. However, the Triple S is notably heavier, which some people may find tiresome for all-day wear. The Rhyton's traditional leather build offers a supportive but firm fit.

Are the Balenciaga Triple S still in fashion?

Yes. While the peak "dad shoe" trend has evolved, the Triple S remains an icon in the streetwear world. It has transitioned from a hyped trend piece into a recognizable staple of the Balenciaga brand.

Is the Gucci Rhyton versatile?

Absolutely. Due to its cleaner silhouette and premium leather finish, the Rhyton is very versatile. It works well with casual outfits like jeans and hoodies, but can also be paired with more tailored looks.

Which sneaker is heavier?

The Balenciaga Triple S is significantly heavier than the Gucci Rhyton due to its massive, triple-layered rubber sole.

How should I clean them?

For the leather Gucci Rhyton, use a soft, damp cloth and a quality leather cleaner. For the mixed-material Balenciaga Triple S, use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and a specialized sneaker cleaning solution, being careful with the different materials like mesh and nubuck.