Running shoes (8) - Crossword Clue
Answer: SNEAKERS
Understanding the Crossword Clue: Running Shoes (8)
- Running shoes is a straightforward cryptic crossword clue where the answer SNEAKERS (8 letters) directly describes athletic footwear designed for running and sports activities.
- This clue exemplifies a simple definition-style crossword puzzle where the clue phrase literally describes the answer without wordplay or hidden meanings.
Why SNEAKERS is the Perfect Answer
- Sneakers are lightweight, rubber-soled athletic shoes originally designed for sports and physical activities, particularly running.
- The term gained popularity in the early 20th century because the rubber soles allowed wearers to move quietly or "sneak" around.
- Today, sneakers encompass a broad category of casual and performance footwear worn by millions worldwide for both athletic and everyday purposes.
- The 8-letter constraint perfectly matches SNEAKERS, making it the ideal solution for this crossword clue.
- Alternative terms like "trainers" (British English) or "runners" don't fit the letter count requirement.
Tips for Solving Footwear-Related Crossword Clues
- Look for letter count first: The number in parentheses is your primary constraint. With 8 letters, SNEAKERS fits perfectly while "shoes" (5) or "boots" (5) don't.
- Consider regional terminology: American crosswords typically use "sneakers" while British puzzles might clue "trainers," though the answer remains SNEAKERS when 8 letters are required.
- Check crossing letters: Use intersecting answers to confirm your solution. Common letter patterns include S-E-A-K-E-R-S starting with 'S' and ending with 'S'.
- Think about context: If the puzzle theme involves sports, athletics, or casual wear, footwear-related answers become more likely.
- Remember compound meanings: "Running" can indicate both the sport and the present participle, but in this straightforward clue, it simply describes the shoe's primary function.
Running shoes (8) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q:Why is the answer SNEAKERS and not TRAINERS?
While "trainers" is the British term for athletic shoes, it only contains 8 letters when written as TRAINERS. However, SNEAKERS is the more common answer in American-style crosswords, and both terms can be valid depending on the puzzle's origin and crossing letters.
Q:Are there other 8-letter answers for running shoes?
SNEAKERS is the most common 8-letter answer. "TRAINERS" is also 8 letters and occasionally appears in British crosswords, though SNEAKERS dominates in frequency.
Q:How can I tell if it's SNEAKERS vs. TRAINERS?
Check your crossing answers for confirmation. If the first letter intersects with another clue requiring 'S', choose SNEAKERS. If it requires 'T', opt for TRAINERS. American puzzles almost always use SNEAKERS.
Q:Is this clue cryptic or straightforward?
This is a straightforward definition clue with no cryptic elements. The clue directly describes the answer without wordplay, anagrams, or hidden meanings.
Q:What if my puzzle shows a different letter count?
Different letter counts require different answers: "SHOES" (5), "BOOTS" (5), "RUNNING SHOES" (12 without spaces), or other footwear types. Always match the specified letter count exactly.
