25 Luxury Sneakers For Men To Master The Casual Look

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.

In a rush? Here’s our editorial selection of the top three best sneakers available right now:

The best sneakers of 2022: Top 25 most popular sneakers for men

Here’s our ultimate list of the best sneakers of 2022 for men. You can easily navigate to the category you’re most interested in.

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.

16. New Balance x Aimé Leon Dore Taupe Sneaker: Best sneaker collaboration

We love a good collaboration, and if it’s bringing uber-cool sneakers to the table and on our feet, even better.

Born from a partnership between New Balance and Aimé Leon Dore, these athletic Taupe sneakers are upgrading New Balance’s dad shoe with a contrasting mixture of suede and mesh and an interesting colorway inspired by New York City aesthetics and the Big Apple’s subway cars in the graffiti glory days of the 1990s.

Honorable mention: The collaboration between Nike and Supreme has produced many sought-after shoes over the years and this Supreme x Nike Air sneaker is no exception.

17. Maison Margiela Replica Low Top Sneakers: Best vintage sneakers for men

Influenced by classic Austrian runners from the ’70s, Maison Margiela’s ‘Replica’ sneakers offer an authentic vintage sports vibe. Made from a combination of leather and suede, they also feature gripped rubber soles and internal straps for a secure fit.

British sports brand Reebok defined the 1980s with its classic sneakers that embody the ultimate athletic shoes of yesteryear. This Reebok Club C Revenge is a cool and affordable retro sneaker.

18. Nike Zoom Vaporfly: Best men’s sneakers to run with

Our absolute favorite running shoes at the moment are the Nike Vaporfly. These racing shoes are hands down the best athletic sneakers on the market today. In fact, they are so good at helping you run faster than the International Association of Athletics Federations is examining if they provide an unfair advantage to athletes who wear them.

The redesigned upper further improves comfort and breathability while the responsive cushioning and secure support help you chase new goals and records.

For long-distance running, check the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 21. These sports shoes were built from the ground up to provide support, comfort, and excellent traction for runners. They are available in a range of colors on Amazon here.

On Running sneakers are also beloved by the world’s best runners and running the show when it comes to 24/7 comfort and style. Whether you are running errands or training for a marathon, On Running Cloudstratus is the performance shoe you need if you are after maximum cushioning on road runs.

19. Tom Ford Midnight Blue Warwick Suede: Most versatile men’s sneakers

If you could only wear one pair of sneakers, this timeless pair from Tom Ford would be our pick. It comes in a variety of colors, but we particularly like this classic brown suede pair. 

It’s easy to wear with just about everything in your closet for a casual to business casual look.

Made in Italy from premium materials, these Tom Ford Warwick sneakers are finished with discreet branding, including a perforated T logo on both sides.

For a good alternative at an affordable price, check these white canvas sneakers by New Republic. Ready-made for California living, they are easy to style, endlessly versatile, and somehow effortlessly elegant.

20. Allbirds Tree Dashers: Best men’s sneakers for long walks

Allbirds really are some of the most comfortable shoes for standing all day. If you like Allbirds’ everyday sneakers, but you want something with a bit more support for your next 10K (or casual jog), check out the Tree Dashers. 

Made from eucalyptus tree fibers and with a dual-density SweetFoam midsole made from sugarcane, they’re sustainable and performance-ready. Supportive, stable, flexible, and well-cushioned, they also have the added bonus of being available in half-sizes.

For comfort while walking through town all day, we also really like Salomon S/Lab’s XT-6 sneakers. The French shoe manufacturer is seeing a massive increase in their sneaker sales since it became a high-fashion status symbol (Even Ralph Lauren and Rihanna started wearing these cool sneakers).

21. Balenciaga Triple S: Best dad sneakers for men

Like it or not, no list of the best designer sneakers for men would be completed without some chunky sneakers by Balenciaga. 

The luxury designer is one of the first to embrace premium sneakers at its fashion show. French luxury designer Balenciaga offers some of the most daring sneakers look. This pair of Triple S is no exception. They are the epitome of dad shoes and are here to stay.

For a more affordable option, we love the classic athletic appearance of New Balance’s 608 V5 trainers. These retro sneakers are both very comfortable to walk all day and easy to pair with your jeans for a casual look. These dad shoes are New Balance’s best sellers on Amazon for men.

22. Nike Air Force 1: Best value sneakers for men

On-trend with a retro yet timeless look and legitimate street credibility, the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 are the best value sneakers of 2022, selling for less than $100. We love this particular all-white iteration with durably stitched overlays, clean finishes, and the perfect amount of flash to make you shine.

The Air Force 1 has defined shoe culture since the moment it stepped onto the court. And it continues to be a fashion staple thanks to clean lines, a strong midsole, and new and classic colorways in low, mid, and high-top styles.

You can also fully customize your own Air Force 1 design with the Nike By You program. Create your own sneaker by selecting the colors and materials for every component of the athletic shoe.

For a low-key and affordable alternative, check these black and white Puma Roma sneakers. With their timeless design and great value for money, it’s no surprise that they have over 40,000 positive reviews on Amazon.

23. Nike Killshot 2: Best men’s sneakers under $100

On-trend with the retro look and dad sneakers inspiration, we love these simple yet stylish trainers.

The Nike Killshot 2 has legitimate street credibility and costs less than $100. These sneakers are hard to get, however, and tend to sell out as quickly as they’re restocked. We love this particular iteration with midnight navy’ swooshes on white leather and light-grey suede trims. The abrasion-resistant gum rubber soles complete the look for a classic tennis sneaker.

Another great option under $100 is the timeless Adidas Originals Stan Smith sneakers. They’ve been around forever and will last you just as long.

24. Vans Authentic Low Top: Best men’s sneakers under $50

If you’re on a really tight budget, your options are limited, but you can still find cool sneakers under $50. You can’t go wrong with this classic pair of black-and-white Vans. Their timeless design and excellent build quality make them the perfect affordable sneaker. They are available in a range of colors to suit your style.

Looking for another cheap pair? Even if you’re not a total denim nerd, you must know Levi’s. And just like their iconic classic jeans, the sneakers deliver timeless casual style and plenty of low-key cool vibes. They are comfortable, durable, and of good value. We found the best deals on Amazon for these Levi’s sneakers under $50.

25. Loro Piana: The most expensive sneakers every stylish man needs

As luxe as a sneaker can get, this pair of Loro Piana might be some of the most expensive sneakers on the market but they are definitely worth the price tag. 

Loro Piana is praised for its premium fabrics and meticulous construction, and these ‘Nuages’ sneakers are proof of why they’re one of the best at what they do. As timeless—and timely—as ever, these ‘Nuages’ sneakers have been expertly crafted in Italy from smooth suede that’s water-repellent and stain-resistant. 

Lightweight and comfortable, this refined pair will work equally well with relaxed tailoring and casual looks.

On the resale market, the most expensive sneakers on sale today are the limited edition Nike MAG Back To The Future. They sell for over $30,000 on StockX at the moment.

One of the most highly anticipated sneaker collab of the year, the Dior x Air Jordan 1 Low sneaker is the perfect balance between sporty classic and high-style.

2022 men sneaker trends: 5 trends you should know

Our editorial team reviewed hundreds of sneakers while compiling this list of the absolute best for 2022. This gives us 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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).
4. 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).
5. 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.

Here are the 6 brands that are critical to the world of men’s sneakers:

1. Nike

No list of the best sneakers brands would be credible without Nike at the top. The American sports brand continues to renew itself every year with new technology and design. Nike’s capacity to push its sneakers in every direction at the same time is absolutely delightful.

2. Adidas

Adidas has successfully completed a comeback over the past few years, diving deep into the streetwear culture with collaborations with Fear Of God by Jerry Lorenzo and Yeezy by Kayne West, for example, while staying true and authentic to their core value.

3. Gucci

The Italian luxury brand Gucci was among the first big names to embrace the casual and sportier men shoe look. Gucci’s design really took over the streetwear fashion world with iconic models.

4. Balenciaga

French luxury brand Balenciaga came late to the sneakers game. But they came big. The designer is revisiting classics from the 80s and 90s with a modern twist.

5. Tom Ford

High-end designer Tom Ford is known for his use of premium materials and attention to detail. The Tom Ford sneaker collection is absolutely top-notch. They provide superb style with long-lasting quality.

6. Common Projects

While less known than the other luxury brands in our list, Common Projects has been making a case for luxury sneakers for a decade. Working with premium materials and thoughtful designs, Common Projects earned street credibility among its fans and offers excellent value for money.

Sneakers culture: Frequently asked questions