Gladiator/Sneakers: The Next “It” Sandal?

I’m both appalled and intrigued by the Nike Gladiator MD Sandals.

Though ancient roman-style shoes have been ubiquitous the past few summers, I’ve yet to see a variation quite as intriguing as these hybrid gladiators / high-top sneakers. Nitro:licious reports that these shoes, retailing for $80 at NikeStore.com, promptly sold out when they were introduced last year. Who knew?!

They’re hideous when you look at this group shot of the six color combinations offered this season, including: Monsoon Blue, Black/Anthracite, White/Metallic Silver, Lilac/Lilac-Anthracite, Dark Cinder/Dk Driftwood-Tar and Dark Driftwood/Barboque Brown.

But then when you look at this shot of someone actually wearing them, they don’t seem so bad.

These sandals will not be winning style awards any time soon, but they look mighty comfortable. I could see myself feeling grateful for them during my marathon shopping sessions. Maybe the black ones wouldn’t be so bad?

I don’t know, what do you guys think? Would YOU wear them?