Sneakers have always been a wardrobe essential, but they’ve quickly become a fashion staple in their own right. While we love our ballet flats, sandals, and loafers, they will never compare to our favorite pair of sneakers. Whether you’re seeking a supportive pair for an active lifestyle or a stylish pair to complement your summer work dresses, the best sneaker brands offer something for every occasion.
When shopping for a new pair of sneakers, “You should always prioritize comfort,” explains Caroline Maguire, the fashion director at Shopbop. “Opt for a comfortable sneaker that’ll carry you around all season long!” While we might sacrifice comfort for trendy styles like heels, sneakers should not be one of them. Take it from Linda Cui Zhang, the associate fashion director at Nordstrom. “My preferred sneaker brands that balance lifestyle and activity are On, Adidas, and Nike,” she notes. “For everyday, easy style, I always recommend Adidas. You can find a style that pairs with any look. When it comes to an emerging sneaker brand, I love On for its versatility in function and fashion.”
Athletic sneaker brands like On have been breaking into the market with their highly anticipated collaborations with celebrities and designers. “Both On and Nike are brands that come to mind that have created true sport performance styles that transition seamlessly to every day, errand-running wear,” Zhang shares. “Strategic brand partnerships with fashion brands and creatives, including Loewe, Zendaya, FKA Twigs, and Jacquemus, build their appeal within the fashion realm.” With this in mind, we’ve gathered the 12 best sneaker brands to shop from now, so you can find your next pair that perfectly suits your lifestyle.
KOIO
Koio seamlessly blends Italian craftsmanship with modern design to create high-quality, stylish shoes. Committed to sustainability and ethical production, the brand emphasizes comfort, durability, and contemporary aesthetics. It aims to provide luxury sneakers that can be worn on any occasion. With a focus on minimizing its environmental impact through responsible sourcing and production practices, Koio ensures that each pair is both eco-friendly and ethically made. If you’re looking for the perfect white sneaker, you’ll find it here.
KOIO Capri
KOIO Retro Runner
KOIO Fabro Distressed
Prices: $$
Best for: Luxe white sneakers
Cariuma
Cariuma is an eco-conscious footwear brand dedicated to creating stylish, comfortable, and sustainable sneakers largely inspired by skate culture. The brand combines timeless design with environmental responsibility, using ethically sourced materials and sustainable practices to create high-quality, low-impact footwear. Committed to reducing its carbon footprint and giving back to the environment, Cariuma plants two trees for every pair of sneakers sold. Crafted for durability and comfort, all of Cariuma’s shoes are priced under $200, making them perfect for everyday wear while supporting a greener planet.
Cariuma Naioca Pro
Cariuma Oca
Cariuma Naioca
Prices: $$
Best for: Eco-conscious skate shoes
Greats
Greats is a Brooklyn-based footwear brand that specializes in crafting high-quality, stylish sneakers with a focus on classic designs and modern comfort. With a wide assortment of silhouettes and colors, Greats offers sneakers that are perfect for both work and play. Founded in 2014, the brand combines timeless aesthetics with exceptional craftsmanship, using premium materials to create durable and versatile shoes. Without an immediately recognizable logo, these shoes speak for themselves with modern designs and experimental use of texture.
Greats The Charlie Distressed
Greats The BRC Runner
Greats The Charlie
Prices: $$
Best for: Low-profile colorful sneakers
HOKA
HOKA is a performance footwear brand that has taken the sneaker market by storm, renowned for its innovative designs and commitment to enhancing the running experience. Founded in 2009 by trail running enthusiasts Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, HOKA focuses on creating ultra-cushioned, lightweight walking, running, and lifestyle shoes that offer superior comfort and support. The brand’s oversized midsoles and Meta-Rocker technology give you a smooth ride, which is why runners, outdoor enthusiasts, and editors swear by them. Dedicated to pushing the boundaries of footwear technology, HOKA continues to deliver high-performance shoes that help athletes of all levels achieve their best.
Hoka Bondi 8
Hoka x Nicole McLaughlin Mafate Three2
Hoka Clifton L Suede
Prices: $-$$$
Best for: Comfortable running sneakers
Axel Arigato
Axel Arigato is a fashion-forward brand celebrated for its sleek, minimalist designs that merge luxury with streetwear influences. Founded in 2014, the brand has quickly gained prominence for its premium sneakers, apparel, and accessories crafted with meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials. Embodying a Scandinavian aesthetic infused with a modern edge, Axel Arigato caters to a diverse clientele seeking both style and substance.
Axel Arigato Sphere Runner
Axel Arigato Dice Lo Sneaker
Axel Arigato Genesis Vintage Runner
Now 30% Off
Prices: $$-$$$
Best for: Luxury streetwear shoes
Veja
Veja is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and ethical production. Founded in 2004, Veja integrates innovative, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, wild rubber from the Amazon, and recycled plastic into its designs. The brand’s sneakers are not only stylish and comfortable but also produced with a transparent supply chain that prioritizes fair wages and environmentally responsible practices. Veja’s minimalist designs, ranging from classic to contemporary styles, appeal to those who value both fashion and sustainability.
Veja Dekkan Sneakers
Veja Rio Branco
Veja ChromeFree Recife
Prices: $$
Best for: Minimalist range
New Balance
New Balance is a go-to sneaker brand for us at ELLE, especially for senior fashion commerce editor Dale Chong, a long-time enthusiast. From lifestyle silhouettes to running sneakers, the brand offers a diverse range that continually sets new fashion trends with innovative designs. “New Balance is top of the game for activities,” Maguire agrees. “I love the arch support and cushioned heels.”
New Balance 1906R
New Balance Made in USA 990v4
New Balance 9060
Prices: $$
Best for: Versatile lifestyle selection
P448
P448 is an Italian footwear brand celebrated for its eclectic blend of luxury and street style. Renowned for its distinctive designs and versatility, its sneakers effortlessly add a sophisticated edge to any casual outfit. Each pair is crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, showcasing the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.
P448 Monza
P448 Audry
P448 Thea Aria
Prices: $$-$$$
Best for: Italian craftsmanship
Adidas
Without a doubt, you know Adidas for its enduring appeal in trendy footwear, featuring classic silhouettes that have reemerged as fashion favorites. “I love retro styles like Sambas, Gazelles, and Cortez,” Maguire emphasizes. “These styles have a certain nostalgic feeling to them that brings me right back to my childhood!” The iconic three-stripe logo adds a vintage flair to modern ensembles, while new designs and coveted collaborations have captured the attention of both shoppers and editors, further solidifying Adidas’ timeless influence in the industry.
Adidas Stan Smith
Adidas Gazelle
Adidas Samba OG
Prices: $-$$$
Best for: On-trend silhouettes
Converse
Converse is nothing short of a cultural icon. Known for its timeless Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers and innovative designs, Converse blends classic style with contemporary trends. Embracing diversity and inclusivity, Converse continues to inspire self-expression and authenticity worldwide, making it a beloved choice for multiple generations seeking iconic, versatile fashion. Maguire wholeheartedly agrees, stating, “I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—Converse goes with everything!”
Converse Chuck 70 Canvas
Converse Run Star Trainer
Converse Run Star Hike Platform Cherries
Now 22% Off
Prices: $-$$
Best for: Classic canvas
Nike
Celebrated for its innovative approach to performance and design, Nike is, simply put, a powerhouse in footwear. The iconic swoosh logo has become a symbol of inspiration and accomplishment worldwide. Offering a versatile range of products, from high-performance sneakers to stylish streetwear, the Oregon-based brand effortlessly blends athleticism with everyday comfort and style, making it a favorite choice for athletes and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Nike Air Max Dn
Nike Air Force 1 Shadow
Nike Cortez
Prices: $-$$
Best for: Timeless logo, active lifestyle
On
Swiss footwear brand On has become known for its groundbreaking CloudTec® technology, which enhances the running experience with a performance-driven design featuring lightweight cushioning and a responsive feel. Its shoes, ranging in price from $100 to $550, blend sleek aesthetics with cutting-edge engineering, appealing to athletes and city dwellers alike. Zhang particularly favors the Cloudtilt style, noting that its “comfortable cushioning brings a lift to both commuting and jogging routines.”
On Cloudmonster
On Cloudaway
On THE ROGER Centre Court
Prices: $$-$$$
Best for: Comfortable running and walking shoes
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Meet The Experts
- Caroline Maguire is the fashion director at Shopbop.
- Linda Cui Zhang is the associate fashion director at Nordstrom.
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