German Trainer (GAT) is a sneaker that has its roots in military shoes that were created in the late 1970s for training purposes for the West German army.The understated design with a white leather upper, suede transitions, and gum rubber sole is still popular today as a pair that can be worn regardless of era or style.
NOVESTA's GERMAN TRAINER respects its European heritage while updating the silhouette and comfort to fit modern feet. In this article, we will introduce the history of German trainers, their design features, the differences unique to NOVESTA, and how to choose a model and size.
What is German Trainer (GAT)?
The original German trainer was a training shoe adopted by the West German army for indoor training of soldiers. In English, it is also called German Army Trainer, or GAT from its initials. Typical features include a functional design with minimal decoration and a color scheme of gray suede over white leather.
They were originally military shoes, but their simple and high-quality design has earned them recognition in the fashion world, and they are now widely known as a standard category of "German trainers."
Slovakia factory and NOVESTA German trainer
German trainers at that time were produced all over Europe, and one of the main production areas was what is now Slovakia. The NOVESTA factory also has a history of being responsible for production during the Czechoslovak era.
NOVESTA inherited this background and reviewed the balance and form of switching while valuing the functional elements unique to military shoes. The area around the arch of the foot has been updated to create a design that can be enjoyed by both genders and is durable enough to be worn on a daily basis for a long time.
Features of German trainer
1. Universal design that eliminates waste
It features a slender shape, low silhouette, and leather and suede parts that are reinforced only where needed. It's not too statement-making and goes well with a wide range of outfits, from denim and chinos to slacks and dresses.
2. Leather upper and gum rubber sole
The traditional model is basically a combination of white leather upper and gum rubber sole. NOVESTA is the closest to that image.GERMAN TRAINER WHITE/TRANSPARENT. Small overlays on the sides serve as both reinforcement and design to stabilize the shoe's shape.
3. Easy to match regardless of the season
It has the lightness of a low-tech sneaker, but also the neatness of a leather shoe. It's easy to match with lightweight bottoms in spring and summer, and with wool pants and coats in fall and winter, so it's great that you can use it all year round.
Which NOVESTA GERMAN TRAINER should you choose?
GERMAN TRAINER close to the original
For those who want to enjoy the classic German trainer feel, we recommend the standard model with a gum rubber sole. The neat and slender silhouette blends naturally with neat clothes.
GERMAN TRAINER TRAIL makes walking easier
GERMAN TRAINER TRAIL is a model that combines the factory original TRAIL sole, which is also used in NOVESTA's MARATHON. While retaining the traditional upper design, it has improved cushioning and stability when walking. Recommended for those who walk more than 10,000 steps on a daily basis, and those who prioritize walking ease when going out for long periods of time.

Light GAT MARATHON CLASSIC
GAT MARATHON CLASSIC is a model that combines the light comfort of MARATHON with the switch of a German trainer. Enjoy the balance between sporty and classic look. Lightweight and easy to carry, it is also recommended for those who walk more than 10,000 steps on a daily basis.
GAT MARATHON CLASSIC is also characterized by a wide variety of colors, from monochrome to bright colors. You can choose a pair that suits you according to the season and your outfit.


Colors, materials, and models in stockGERMAN TRAINER CollectionYou can view it here.
German trainer size and how to choose
NOVESTA's GERMAN TRAINER has a slightly slender silhouette with a shaped area around the arch. Please refer to the CM/EU/UK conversion table on each product page to make your selection based on the sneaker size you usually wear.
- For those with standard foot width: Aim for a size similar to your everyday sneakers.
- People with wide feet or high insteps: Consider going up one size
- Toes: Leave a little extra space and choose a size that won't touch your toes.
Fit varies depending on model and foot type. If you are unsure about the size, please include the brand name and size of the sneakers you usually wear.Contact usPlease.
Frequently asked questions about German trainers
Do “German Trainer” and “GAT” mean the same thing?
GAT is an abbreviation for German Army Trainer. In general, a design that has its roots in German military training shoes is called a German trainer.
What kind of clothes do German sweatshirts go with?
Due to its slender design and minimal decoration, it can be matched with both casual and sophisticated styles. These sneakers are easy to balance with clothes with different silhouettes, such as denim, military pants, slacks, and long skirts.
Where are NOVESTA German trainers made?
NOVESTA's GERMAN TRAINER is produced in Slovakia, where the brand is based. You can check the materials, specifications, and country of origin for each product in the DETAIL column on each product page.
A pair of shoes that will last through the ages
German trainers are a universal sneaker born from the functional beauty of military shoes that blend naturally with modern attire. Enjoy GERMAN TRAINER, unique to NOVESTA, from standard models that inherit history to models that incorporate TRAIL soles and MARATHON structures.


