Why are sneakers called... 'sneakers'?

Who invented the sneaker? Why do sneakers give you better traction? How did waffles, race cars and basketball cause sneakers to become the most popular shoe? For free home activities sign-up at www.WhoSmarted.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.