What is Europe's Obsessions with White Keds?

Ever notice whenever you see tourists walking around NYC they are in white shoes or white keds? Cannot explain this and He is hoping some of the ArmHE from Europe can help out on this one. Are they just really comfortable shoes for traveling in? Can't possibly be the answer, there are hundreds of other shoes that are comfortable. Do they look good? That answer is obvious. Is Keds the only shoes they make in Europe? Of course not.

What is the answer He is searching for? Please someone send some legit answers, these tourist need our help.
-He