The most requested women’s sneakers in Canada and where to buy them right now.
Sneakers are worn year-round, but there’s something about the spring season that gets us excited for a new pair, especially as the weather turns from too hot for boots to too cold for sandals.
When breaking down the type of sneakers to add to the collection this year, we considered a few things: looking at classic styles, exploring new trends, materials and construction, price and availability in Canada. For some models, we took inspiration from an influential designer sneaker and offered options at different price points. Others, like the Adidas Samba, are pretty hard to find right now, so we’ve found some alternatives.
Most of these options come from international brands (French, Japanese and, of course, American). For those who want a Canadian option, there are a few brands available, such as Vesi (especially known for being waterproof), Mat and Nat (vegan and widely available) and Franc and Oak.
The sought-after (and sold out) Samba
Adidas Sambas are at the top of the sneaker wish list. Thanks to its popularity with young models and influencers (which has driven demand up), as well as a rare supply, finding a pair in a reputable store is a challenge. There are limited sizes of Sambarose on the Adidas Canada website and a few select shippers on Amazon (price fluctuations reflect high demand). You could try your luck on a sneaker retailer site. For the closest style, the Gazelles are available direct through Adidas Canada. (Pay attention to the men’s size when ordering.)
Color-block kicks
New Balance color block sneakers are a fresh take on retro styling, blending the brand’s athletic roots with its signature normcore aesthetic. There are several color combinations and we are in favor of the 574 in blue with rose water and the 327 in white with pink and beige accents. Both available at New Balance.
Vegan sneakers
For chunky sneakers with lots of lift, these Venus sneakers from the Canadian line Call It Spring cost less than $70 and, like all shoes from this brand, are vegan and certified by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. $65 to call it spring.
Sock sneakers
Balenciaga’s sock sneaker falls into the ‘love’ or ‘hate’ column – there’s no in-between when it comes to such a polarizing look. For those who want the designer look, now’s the time to score a pair ($950 on SSENSE). For a similar shape and fit, fresh joe makes a black sock as does Hello Yoga.
The top of the Nike high-top sneakers
Nike is the best-selling sneaker brand in the world (and the most popular brand in Canada). the High-rise blazers mix the classic swoosh with a sleek 70s design. These can be paired with jeans, joggers, pants or dresses for an urban-preppy look. $135 to SportChek.
The French sneaker to wear with everything
Sustainable French sneaker brand Veja is the go-to street-style shoe for running errands and going to school, as well as a popular choice in offices with a casual dress code. This Model V-10 with neon orange and burgundy accents is both stylish and cool. Once hard to find in Canada, there’s a healthy selection now available at the Canadian retailer simons.
Asics light as a cloud
Japanese sneaker brand Asics makes technical sneakers with a loaded logo (the signature line print on the side) and has a reputation for durability and comfort. This sage green pair look as light as a cloud. On sale for $112 at the Canadian online retailer SSENSE.
Ready for that jelly?
Jelly sneakers are the trend to watch, according to fashion predictors like Vogue magazine. But the style has yet to achieve mass popularity. There are expensive designer versions (like those of Stella McCartney) and Adidas makes a jelly version of its Basketball Superstar but currently the sizes are very limited. Available directly through Adidas Canada.