In a move that’s equal parts bold marketing genius and pure absurdity, Denny’s has stepped into the world of high-fashion streetwear with the launch of Sticky Kicks – limited-edition high-top sneakers that literally contain real Denny’s pancake syrup encased in clear, sealed panels.
Announced on December 10, 2025, just in time for National Maple Syrup Day on December 17, these sneakers are the result of a collaboration between America’s Diner and renowned footwear artist Dan Gamache, better known as Mache. Mache, who has customized kicks for celebrities and collaborated with brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma, brought his expertise to create what Denny’s calls the “sweetest flex of the season.”
The design pays homage to Denny’s breakfast legacy: syrup-colored patent leather uppers, tumbled yellow accents reminiscent of butter or pancakes, and the classic Denny’s logo embossed on the heel. But the star of the show is the transparent side panel filled with actual Denny’s syrup – sealed, of course, for that ultimate “drip.”
“Sticky Kicks are impractical, unnecessary, and completely over the top, which is exactly why we love them,” said Ellie Doty, Denny’s senior vice president and chief brand officer. “At Denny’s, syrup isn’t just something we serve. It’s part of who we are. It’s our golden thread. So, it only makes sense we’d be the first to turn it into fashion.”
Mache echoed the sentiment: “Creating Sticky Kicks is just the right amount of crazy and weird for me and my team… Though it had its sticky moments, creating the ultimate collector’s shoe is something I’m so proud of.”
The Sticky Kicks will drop exclusively on DinerDrip.com (Denny’s merch site) on December 17, 2025, at 12 p.m. EST. Priced at $195, they’re available in men’s sizes 8-13, with a very limited quantity. Denny’s Rewards members get early access starting at 11 a.m. EST with a special code.
This isn’t Denny’s first foray into quirky branding, but pairing diner staples with sneaker culture takes it to new heights – or should we say, new drips? Whether you’re a sneakerhead, a Grand Slam fanatic, or just love wildly creative marketing, Sticky Kicks are poised to be one of the most talked-about drops of the holiday season. Just don’t wear them near any actual pancakes.
