The best shoes for looks, comfort and durability must all be considered when choosing a pair of shoes. This is because you will be wearing them daily and they will be an important part of your outfit, so you need to make sure that they suit the purpose.
Best Shoes For Looks
The best shoes for looks should be simple and elegant. A shoe that has a lot of color or patterns may not suit your body type or style as well as a plain shoe would. If you have an hourglass figure, then a high heel shoe with straps around the ankle may be more flattering than one without straps.
Comfort is another important factor when choosing the best shoes for looks. If you are going to spend all day on your feet, then it doesn’t matter how cute your shoes are if they hurt like hell! Comfort is especially important if you have wide feet or bunions because the wrong pair of shoes can cause pain and discomfort in these areas.
Durability is also important when choosing the best shoes for looks because you don’t want to have to replace your favorite pair every few months due to wear and tear! The best way to ensure that your favorite pair lasts longer is by treating them well by cleaning them regularly and protecting them from harsh chemicals like bleach
Best Shoes For Looks
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Ever since luxury sneakers found their sartorial footing, they have become an essential element of every man’s casual wardrobe, providing comfort and coolness to any outfit for men.
The value of designer sneakers is unquestionable: Sneakers offer a level of style, versatility, and comfort that other casual shoes can’t match. Now, you’re just as likely to see the best trendy sneakers in the office as you are in the gym. Match them with a pair of jeans for an elegant casual look, or dress them up with a suit for a business casual style.
With luxury sneakers, you’re getting premium fabrics and materials from high-end designers and luxury brands.
They can be expensive, yes. But you’re getting a level of attention to detail and craftsmanship that mass-market brands can’t deliver.
However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to pay a fortune for your designer shoes: our stylists hand-picked budget-friendly, high-quality alternatives for the best luxury sneakers listed below. Traditional sports and athletic wear brands such as Adidas, Nike, and New Balance have branched out to design classic streetwear shoes that can also look elegant.
From Gucci to Tom Ford and Balenciaga, every sneaker featured on our list can become your go-to shoes for most days of the week. Men’s premium casual shoes below are versatile, stylish, and functional. We think it’s money well spent.
1. Oliver Cabell Low 1 Frost: Best minimalist men’s sneakers
Oliver Cabell is making a name for itself, consistently delivering high-quality premium sneakers with a simple minimalist design. This sublime pair of all-white sneakers is discrete and minimalist, yet very stylish. Oliver Cabell handcrafts all its shoes using ethical factories and materials.
Be sure to read our full Oliver Cabell review for more details about our hands-on (or could we say ‘feet on‘) experience with the Low 1.
Axel Arigato is another sneaker brand that excels at producing minimalist sneakers with a luxurious, low-key look. This pair of white leather sneakers with a discreet golden logo is one of our favorites.
2. Nike Air Max 95: Bestselling men’s sneakers of the year
Nike is one of those failsafe, classic sneaker brands you need in your shoe rotation. The Nike Air Max 95 is quite simply the most popular men’s sneaker of 2022.
This low-top pair comes in a range of colors, shown here in classic black. These sporty sneakers take inspiration from the ’90 classic track aesthetics. Nike’s signature lightweight rubber sole makes it also one of the most comfortable sneakers to wear all day long. No wonder the Nike Air Max 95 are the single best-rated sneakers online.
This alternative Nike Air Max 270—Nike’s first lifestyle Air Max—in black with a white logo brings you style, comfort, and serious street cred.
3. Koio Capri Castagna: Best men’s casual shoes to wear with jeans
We absolutely love the Capri Castagna by Koio as our everyday sneakers. These simple yet elegant brown leather sneakers are perfect to match with jeans when dressing casually. Not to mention—the daily commutes will be made infinitely more comfortable.
Koio is a fast-growing online sneaker brand created by two passionate sneakerheads. They design their shoes in the USA and produce them in Italy.
Another excellent casual sneaker option to wear daily is these sneakily sustainable, irresistibly stylish sneakers by French-based brand Veja. Many color combinations are available, but for a timeless pair, we’d recommend the all-white or the black and white version of the V-10.
If you are looking to take a (luxury) step in the right direction, consider these Valentino Garavani sneakers your daily reminder to be ‘Open for a change.’ Crafted in Italy from supple faux leather and partially recycled speckled rubber soles, these luxury sneakers are sleek and simple with just the right amount of sophistication.
4. Axel Arigato Clean 90: Most stylish sneakers for men
Nothing beats a pair of clean, minimalist sneakers for men. Our favorites have to be these versatile suede sneakers by street-smart Swedish label, Axel Arigato. Blending the understated minimalism of Scandinavian and Japanese culture with a hint of playfulness, they can be dressed up with classic tailoring or dressed down with activewear or casual jeans.
Axel Arigato’s Clean 90 Sneaker collection is a real game-changer and we’re definitely tempted to buy multiple pairs. There are heaps of styles available, featuring everything from 3D embroidered birds to zebra print heel tabs. But we appreciate the unfussy sophistication of this beige suede pair. This cool update of the classic Clean 90 Sneaker is handmade from premium suede with a luxurious texture you can’t help but stroke. The back tab in smooth leather offers an aesthetically satisfying contrast.
With a slightly higher heel, cushioned footbed, and arch support, these Axel Arigato Clean 90 sneakers provide ultimate comfort from morning until evening, and wherever you end up in between.
If you’re looking for something edgier, check these distressed sneakers by Golden Goose instead. The Italian luxury shoemaker combines luxury materials, true craftsmanship, and edgy design to the world of men’s sneakers. The results are some of the most trendy men’s sneakers of the year with a sought-after distressed leather look.
5. Adidas Originals Superstar: Best classic sneakers for men
Every man should have a pair of Adidas Originals Superstar in his sneakers collection. The design is timeless. Some even call them the best sneakers of all time. The shoes come in a variety of colors, but if we have to pick just one, we would recommend the classic white leather with black stripes.
If you close your eyes and picture one of the most classic sneakers in history, chances are that the Converse Chuck Taylor will pop into your head.
6. Lanvin Suede And Patent Leather Sneaker: Best men’s dressed up sneakers
If you’re after a nice pair of black sneakers to dress up for a business casual look, or even a black-tie party, check this iconic, timeless pair of tone-on-tone Lanvin cap-toe in suede and patent leather. It’s the best sneakers to wear in the office or match with a suit for a contemporary, modern look.
Looking for an all-black sneaker instead, Oliver Cabell has exactly what you need with this Jet Black version of their best-selling Low 1 shoe. The pair is crafted in Italy with calfskin leather and Margom outsoles.
7. Celine Ct-02 Mid Sneaker With Scratch: Most extravagant sneakers for men
This pair of gold mid sneakers by French luxury designer Céline is bold, comfortable, and highly desirable. You won’t go unnoticed walking down the street with this statement piece on your feet.
If you’re after high-top sneakers with some peps, check these luxury sneakers by Dior, too. Crafted in white and gray smooth calfskin, with the brand’s instantly-recognizable Oblique Galaxy, Dior B27 will effortlessly enhance any favorite look.
8. Adidas Ultraboost 22: Most comfortable sneakers for men
When Adidas first introduced the Ultraboost, the shoe received rave reviews online for its build quality and comfort. Put the sneakers on your feet, and you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds! The latest version, the Adidas Ultraboost 22, is excellent for running as well. Better yet: the Ultraboost are made from recyclable materials, so they are friendly to our planet.
The Ultraboost is now available in a large range of colors and styles. The breathable mesh top is particularly comfortable during the summer to keep your feet cool. It’s also one of the few pairs of shoes on our list with true athletic capabilities. You can use them on the track, at the gym, or as your go-to pair on the weekend.
Pssst: you can snatch a brand new pair of Ultraboost at a discount if you purchase the previous version, the Ultraboost 5.0 DNA, from Adidas here.
A favorite sustainable sneakers brand of Leonardo Dicaprio and ours for both comfort and value, Allbirds has earned itself a status as the world’s most comfortable shoes—and after putting Allbirds’ sneakers to the test, we reckon it’s pretty much true. Made from sustainable eucalyptus tree fiber, these everyday sneakers are breathable, machine washable, and odor-resistant.
Sometimes magic can happen in your comfort zone, and by that, we mean slipping in these black sock trainers by Hugo Boss. Oh, and did we mention they are partially made from plastic bottles that would otherwise end up in the ocean? A look-good, feel-good sneaker—we are sold.
9. Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2: 2022 most sought-after sneakers for men
The Adidas Yeezy Boost is in such high demand that the only way you could buy a pair right now is on Farfetch or the resale website StockX.
The Yeezy, born from a collaboration between Kanye West and Adidas, also makes for a great sneaker investment if you plan on selling them back. Their aftermarket price has increased by 27% since they first went on sale. They remain one of the hottest sneakers of the year. Hipsters love them for their unique look, sneakerheads love them for their investment value on aftermarket websites.
We give an honorable mention for this alternative: the beloved Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG in a brand new shiny look. The classic Air Jordan high-top silhouette remains a timeless hit with a modern twist thanks to its patent leather in black and red tones.
10. Balmain B-Court: Best black and white sneakers for men
Life might be colorful, but sometimes we do love things to be simply black and white like these Balmain luxury sneakers.
With its clean and trendy design, the sleek Balmain B-Court sneakers will keep you comfortably stylish. The shoe is made with high-quality leather and extra padding. The back of the sole features a glossy rubberized trip with the luxury house logo embossed at the heel.
For an even more luxurious alternative, check these black and white high-top sneakers by Prada. The devil here is definitely in the details.
An equally as trendy and cool sneaker (and more affordable) is the retro-inspired Genesis Vintage Runner by Axel Arigato. Set on a lightweight modern streamlined sole, these sneakers are both comfortable and stylish. Added bonus? They’re responsibly crafted from recycled bottles and plastic waste.
11. Koio Capri Triple White: Best white sneakers for men
Every man should own a pair of pure white sneakers. They are easy to wear with nearly everything, and will instantly freshen up your look. White sneakers don’t have to be boring, however. To be on-trend, check this pair of Koio Capri Triple White. The shoe is very comfortable even after a long day of walking.
Another great option for white sneakers for men is the Oliver Cabell Low 1. It’s a great value alternative if you want simple yet stylish white sneakers made with high-quality materials.
12. New Republic Kurt Leather Sneaker: Best men’s all black sneakers
If you are looking for a convincing argument for stepping into the dark side, in a good way, these black dress sneakers by New Republic are all you need to know. Yes, you can wear black-on-black sneakers and still be trendy. Simple as that.
The black sneakers feature a sustainable Tencel mesh footbed (Read: memory foam luxury mattresses for your feet) for increased comfort and breathability. No break-in time is needed. Classic style and effortless elegance at affordable prices? Need we say more
If you want a luxury pair of black sneakers, try these Common Projects sneakers. These black leather and black sole sneakers even come with matching black lace-up closure. Only a discrete serial number stamp in gold tone is present on the outer side for a touch of style.
One way to add a little character to an otherwise all-black sneaker is to play with textures. And this modern take on the iconic Gucci Ace Sneakers is a case in point. Embossed with a tonal GG Supreme pattern, these luxury sneakers are the epitome of elegant sophistication and bold confidence.
13. Gucci Tennis 1977 Sneakers: Best tennis shoes for men
Gucci nailed the tennis shoe throwback design. The retro-inspired Gucci Tennis 1977 sneakers have an air of classic tennis shoes with a modern interpretation. They are crafted in Italy from white leather. There is something about the heritage-inspired striped webbing trims that gives them a great personality. These tennis sneakers look great, on and off the tennis court.
For a modern take on the tennis sneaker, check these Nike tennis shoes for men: NikeCourt Vapor Lite. These black tennis shoes are breathable, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable.
14. Nike Air Force 1 GTX: Men’s most durable sneakers
Made with Gore-Tex, a high-tech material that ensures a high level of water resistance, the Nike Air Force 1 GTX is one of the most durable sneakers on the market today.
We especially love them in crisp black leather for a timeless look. A great reinterpretation of the basketball OG—the classic Air Force—with modern design details.
This pair of high-top Converse is another excellent option if you want to invest in sneakers that will stay with you for years to come. Their design is both durable and timeless.
15. Nike Dunk High Retro: Best high-top sneakers for men
Channeling ’80s vintage, the Nike Dunk High Retro is an old-school high-top sneaker rooted in comfort. It’s very wearable with just enough street attitude and exciting elements to make people stop and notice.
Check also this superb high-top pair. Combining clean lines and a supportive high-top silhouette, these Rick Owens’ contemporary black and white sneakers are sure to put a pep in your step.
a unique position to observe the trends that are shaping the world of designer sneakers this year.
Here are the 5 most important trends of the year:
- Bulky silhouettes: luxury brands are experimenting with bigger sneaker designs this year—a throwback to the large skate shoes of the 90’. Check, for example, the Balenciaga Triple S or New Balance’s Made in USA Taupe Sneakers.
- Minimalism: clean and simple design continue to sell (thankfully). Whether you covet an affordable option or a luxury designer pair, no closet is complete without a pair of minimalist sneakers. Common Projects’ Achilles, Koio’s Capri, Oliver Cabell’s Low 1, and Axel Arigato’s Clean 90 are our favorite examples of sneaker minimalism.
- New tech: big sneaker manufacturers continue to push new boundaries to make you run faster (see the Nike Zoom Vaporfly) or protect your shoes better (see the Nike Air Force 1 GTX).
- Sustainability: Young, innovative brands such as Allbirds and Veja have embraced sustainability from the get-go. Likewise, big sneaker manufacturers are now also embracing sustainability in sneaker productions by using reusable materials (see the Adidas UltraBoost).
- High-fashion collaboration: it’s hard to keep track of all the collaborations going on at the moment. Virtually every luxury fashion brand has a sneaker model in collaboration with a streetwear brand at the moment. The latest coveted collabs are Dior x Nike, Prada x Adidas and New Balance x Aime Leon Dore.
Best sneaker brands: The brands that define the sneaker culture
Athletic brands invented sneakers. But today, you can now buy sneakers from virtually any fashion brand on the planet. From entry-level to high-end luxury fashion statements, there are sneakers available for every budget.
Some brands really define the sneaker culture, however. They created something new and established themselves as true shapers and visionaries.