Beyond white sneakers
There was a time when I would have chosen almost any shoe over a sneaker. Give me a heel, a ballet flat, a loafer, even a sandal, and chances are I would have reached for that first. Sneakers were practical, sure, but they weren’t always the most exciting thing in the closet.
Somewhere along the way, that changed.
Maybe it’s because we’re walking more. Maybe it’s because long days now involve commuting across the city, running errands between meetings, or spending hours on our feet. Whatever the reason, sneakers have become the shoes many of us actually wear most often. The good news is they no longer require sacrificing personal style in the name of comfort.
The best sneaker isn’t necessarily the trendiest or the most comfortable. It’s the one that feels most like you. Whether your style leans minimalist, sporty, fashion-forward, or somewhere in between, there’s probably a pair that already fits the way you dress.
For the style experimenter: Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 TGRS
With its slim profile and low-to-the-ground silhouette, the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 TGRS feels like a refreshing alternative to the chunky sneakers that have dominated footwear for years. There’s something slightly unexpected about it, almost borrowing the elegance of a ballet flat while maintaining the comfort and ease of a sneaker.
It’s a natural choice for those who enjoy taking a slightly less conventional approach to dressing. Worn with wide-leg trousers, slip skirts, oversized tailoring, or feminine dresses, it brings a softer, more fashion-conscious feel than a traditional athletic sneaker. While many sneakers are designed to blend into an outfit, this one shifts its entire mood. Distinctive without feeling intimidating, it offers a welcome departure from the usual white sneaker.
For the outdoor enthusiast turned street style fan: Salomon XT-6 Gore-Tex
Originally designed for trail running and long-distance terrain, the Salomon XT-6 Gore-Tex was built with performance in mind. The technical detailing, rugged sole, and waterproof construction make it one of the most functional shoes on this list, but its adoption by the fashion crowd has given it an entirely different life.
It suits someone whose wardrobe already leans practical. Utility jackets, cargo pants, relaxed tailoring, and monochromatic basics all feel at home alongside it. Rather than trying to look polished, the XT-6 embraces a more effortless, outdoors-inspired attitude that somehow feels even cooler because of it.
For the casual dresser: New Balance 204L
New Balance has spent the past few years perfecting the art of the everyday sneaker, and the 204L continues that tradition. It captures the relaxed appeal the brand has become known for while maintaining a streamlined profile that feels easy to wear with almost anything.
It’s the sneaker equivalent of a great white T-shirt: uncomplicated, versatile, and endlessly useful. Whether paired with denim, relaxed tailoring, leggings, or an oversized button-down, it feels effortless rather than trend-driven.
For the comfort-first dresser: On Cloud 6
Some sneakers become popular because they’re fashionable. Others earn their reputation because people genuinely love wearing them. The On Cloud 6 falls firmly into the latter category.
Lightweight, supportive, and designed for all-day wear, it has become a favorite among commuters, travelers, and anyone constantly on the move. If your idea of great style starts with feeling comfortable enough to get through a busy day, this is likely the pair you’ll reach for most often.
For the vintage sportswear lover: Adidas SL 72 OG
First introduced in the 1970s, the Adidas SL 72 OG carries the kind of heritage that newer sneakers can only try to replicate. The retro running silhouette feels nostalgic without looking like a costume, which is precisely why it continues to resonate today.
It’s a natural fit for anyone drawn to vintage-inspired dressing. Think track jackets, striped knits, worn-in denim, and wide-leg trousers. There’s a certain charm to the SL 72 that feels less about following trends and more about appreciating the classics.
For the fashion insider: Puma Speedcat
Originally inspired by motorsport footwear, the Puma Speedcat stands out from many modern sneakers, thanks to its low profile and streamlined shape. While most brands spent years making sneakers bigger and chunkier, the Speedcat quietly moved in the opposite direction.
Its recent resurgence has been driven largely by fashion people who appreciate pieces that feel slightly ahead of the curve. Frequently styled with oversized denim, tailored separates, and slip skirts, it brings a directional quality to an outfit without looking like it’s trying too hard. If you enjoy spotting a trend before everyone else catches on, this is likely already on your radar.
For maximum cushioning: Hoka Bondi 9
The Hoka Bondi 9 is proof that performance footwear can still have broad appeal. Recognized for its generously cushioned sole and remarkably smooth ride, it has become a favorite among runners, frequent travelers, healthcare workers, and anyone who spends long hours on their feet.
Once reserved largely for athletic settings, Hoka’s appeal now extends well beyond them. Paired with relaxed separates, matching sets, or casual layers, it reflects a growing mindset that feeling good is every bit as important as looking good.
