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Sneakers are a staple in everyone’s wardrobe, but there are so many options, it’s hard to pick a favorite. While nothing beats a clean pair of white airforce (if you can catch them), sometimes you need to switch things up to suit the occasion. We’ve rounded up eight pairs of the best women’s sneakers for every style, taste and budget. So whether you want to wear the latest fashionable sneakers, go for a run, or wear something comfy as you stroll through the city, we’ve got you covered. We bought our favorite sneakers from some of our favorite brands, including Nike, Vans, and more.
The best sneakers are versatile and comfortable
A good pair of sneakers can last a long time, but if you use them for training a lot, you might want to replace them every year. If you wear them casually — and buy the right sneaker cleaners — they can last a while, so you’re always ready for brunch, work, or a run. Now is the time to step up your sneaker game and elevate your style – the options are limitless, but we’ve curated our favorites below:
Best Retro Style Sneaker
Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Essential – Nike, $100
If you’re obsessed with retro basketball shoes, you can’t go wrong with this sneaker. While some of you sneakerheads may be eager to bid on a pair of 70s sneakers on eBay, you can sport the same look for a much cheaper price. The brand notes that these shoes have both 70s, 80s, and 90s vibe – and we definitely agree. The leather upper of the mid top shoes breaks down nicely and between the retro branding and suede accents, they look exactly like the shoe you might remember seeing your favorite players as a kid.
Best Versatile Choice
ULTRABOOST DNA 5.0 SHOES – adidas, $190
For an everyday sneaker, consider white, gray, black, nude, and other neutral colors. The ULTRABOOST DNA 5.0 are available in over 15 colorways, so choose a pair that will go with your favorite jeans, leggings and cycling shorts. We chose these shoes for everyday use for a variety of reasons, but most have to do with comfort: they have a snug, snug upper and a molded heel counter. They also have superior traction, so be confident when walking on pavement, stairs, etc., but they’re made for running, so it’s a versatile pair you’ll get a lot out of. Not only do they have a snug, sock-like fit, these comfortable shoes are eco-friendly. They are made with Parley Ocean Plastic. (Sustainability is important, y’all!)
RELATED: 10 Best Basketball Shorts For Athletic & Leisure Wear
Best running basketball under $100
Nike Winflo 8 – Nike, $90
Running shoes can be tricky depending on your needs. For example, if you are a trail runner, consider the Pegasus Trail 3 shoe instead. water and potholes – or just for a few miles in your gym. Customers leave rave reviews for the foam padding: one writes it’s like “walking on pillows.”
Best casual streetwear option
Nike SB Chron 2 Canvas – Nike, $60
I own many pairs of skateboard shoes and have never skated a day in my life (okay, maybe this time at the Academy where I was bored in the bike/skate section). Luckily, you don’t have to be a skateboarder to wear skate shoes, as they are a popular, comfortable, and fashionable option for everyday wear. Skate shoes are pretty eclectic when it comes to style. My Janoski Air Max shoes gave more of the typical sporty vibe, while the SB Chron 2 Canvas Shoe gives a classic SB shoe look (similar to Vans). The revamped design features a reshaped collar and heel for a more comfortable fit – this is a clean, fashionable shoe that’s got a bit of a toe.
Best basketball under $50
Sneakers are getting so expensive these days, so we totally understand the need to keep them affordable. The last pair of shoes I bought for under $50 were from New Balance and I’m impressed. My New Balances have been comfortable walking and running on the treadmill – plus I’ve even put them in the washing machine at least 10 times now and haven’t noticed any major wear and tear. As for durability, New Balance is top notch. These 100% synthetic shoes have a rubber sole, Revlite midsole, breathable mesh upper and rubber outsole. We love this style for leisure and walking.
Best sneaker with a chunky heel
Vans Sentry Sk8-Hi – Zappos, $99.95
I used to hate big sneakers, but they grow on me. Our pick for the best chunky-soled sneakers for women comes from Vans. If you’re a fan of Converse or Nike SB shoes, chances are you have plenty of Vans in your closet as well. The platform sneaker looks like the classic sneaker we all know and love, but this pair has an extra 1.5 inches of platform height. They have a textile insole and a synthetic sole for arch support – and these will go well with jeans and a leather jacket, or with a spring dress for an unexpected look. Choose between six different colors.
Best walking sneaker
New Balance Women’s 877 V1 Walking Shoe – Amazon, $79+
Walking shoes are essential if you live in the city or take a lot of steps throughout the day. Just as you wear out your tires, you wear out your shoes, so make sure you have a walking shoe designed for the many steps you will take. These options from New Balance have a classic, almost vintage feel and are ready to tackle the treadmill, a long hike or a walking tour. They have a rubber outsole and a sueded mesh upper for terrific traction. Grab these USA-made shoes for under $100.
Best Classic Pick
Nike Air Force 1 ’07 – Nike, $100
White sneakers are a must for minimalists. If you’re ready to keep them in pristine condition with cleaning products, consider White Air Forces. The crisp leather sneaker is iconic and will never go out of style. Seriously, you’ll be able to match these shoes with just about anything in your wardrobe. You’ll fall in love with these shoes and replace them religiously once they get too worn out: they’re so good they’ll never go out of style.