Say what you will about novelty, wardrobe staples are the real heroes when it comes to fashion investments. A repertoire of proven basics lays the groundwork for creating fresh and interesting outfits on a regular basis. And in the context of footwear, top sneaker brands are a great place to start.
Whether you’re athletic or include the term “athleisure” to describe your personal style, a classic pair of sneakers is a good idea on all levels. The best sneaker brands combine the spirit of movement with innovative design and versatile style (and if you’re a heritage brand, a piece of historical storytelling).
Ahead, check out our guide to the best sneaker brands, with highlights ranging from iconic silhouettes like Converse’s Chuck Taylor All Star to new designers reinventing the category, including APL Athletic Propulsion Labs and eco-friendly Veja.
Nike
This American footwear giant was founded in 1964 (known as Blue Ribbon Sports until 1978) and is responsible for iconic sneaker silhouettes including The Cortez, The Airmax, The Air Force 1, among many others. Wear it at the weekend with a sporty style or with a floral dress for a casual meal, the Nike wallet offers versatility and timelessness.
Veja
Based in Paris and sold worldwide, Veja is a conscious sneaker brand that is produced in high-level factories in Brazil. They design with Brazilian and Peruvian organic cotton for the canvas and laces, Amazonian rubber for the soles, and also incorporate other innovative fabrics like recycled plastic bottles.
Superga
It’s easy to see the appeal of Italian sneaker brand Superga – it’s an icon of casual sportswear. The brand has been around in one variation or another for over 100 years, but its classic tennis continues to feel relevant and modern. They recently announced their partnership with Emily Ratajkowski, where the model collaborated to refresh two of Superga’s styles, including a tennis shoe perfect for summer.
Joint projects
These hand-sewn luxury sneakers are made in the Marche region of Italy, and the brand is a collaboration between designers Flavio Girolami and Prathan Poopat. A defining feature of these sneakers is a line of numbers along the heel, which indicates style, size and color.
New balance
Whether you’re an avid 574 Core wearer or a die-hard 327 fan, chances are New Balance’s collection of stylish and versatile trainers have found their way into your wardrobe. And with splashy collaborations with brands like STAUD, the 116-year-old company continues to feel fresh and current.
Reebok
American footwear brand deeply rooted in athletic performance, Reebok trainers lend a sleek, slightly nostalgic aesthetic that is perhaps best expressed through their Club C 85 silhouette. Wear with crinkle ankle socks and boxer briefs for a cute look of weekend.
Puma
With its origins as a football boot factory in Germany, Puma has evolved over the years into a heritage sports shoe company. The cat logo is instantly recognizable, and modern styles like the Wild Rider (released in 2021) bring the brand into the 21st century with its vibrant colors and dynamic silhouette.
Vans
The name “House of Vans” was coined by skateboarders in the ’70s in Anaheim, California, and this ubiquitous skate brand continues to be a shoe favorite thanks to its sticky sole and laid-back vibe, like the stripe. side that debuted in 1977. this naturally cool shoe with a white t-shirt and jeans or dressed up with a white sundress for a fun contrast.
Converse
Founded in Massachusetts in 1908, Converse is best known for its basketball shoe that debuted in 1917: the Chuck Taylor All Star. Its diamond tread pattern and heel overlay were defining features and although the Chucks have moved away from their associations with the court, this canvas lace-up sneaker remains a true classic.
Adidas
Stan Smith, Gazelle, Superstar – you know you’re doing something right when your sneakers are known by their first names. Adidas was founded in the 1930s after World War I and rose to prominence after being worn by a track and field star at the Berlin Olympics. And in addition to beloved signature styles, the brand’s ongoing collection with designer Wales Bonner continues to be a much-anticipated and successful partnership.
fila
Thanks to the chunky sneaker craze, Fila’s return to the limelight has been a fascinating revival to witness. Beloved in the ’90s and whose origins date back to 1911, the brand’s Disruptor sneaker style is perhaps the most well-known silhouette, worn by women like Bella Hadid, Dakota Fanning and Emily Ratajkowski.
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