Gone are the days when sneakers were solely worn for comfort. Today they're a style statement —and our closets (and feet) are better for it
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Investing in designer goods is no small feat. which is one of the reasons why accessories have a strong claim on the luxury sector. A Chanel handbag, an Hermès scarf, or a pair of Prada loafers are some of the most popular picks because they're the kind of staples you can wear almost every day with almost any ensemble.
With the trend leaning towards comfort, investing in a pair of designer sneakers has never been more of a no-brainer. Some iconic iterations have come to define this particular style of footwear, from Balenciaga's Triple S logo chunky dad shoes to Comme Des Garçons Play's continuous collaboration with Converse.
What designer sneakers should you invest in?
Finding the right pair of designer sneakers is all about priorities. The many options available means you will have to figure out what brand, fit and model you'd prefer. Are you looking for a classic style with minimal detailing from one of the heritage houses, such as Saint Laurent's sleek tennis shoes, or are you on the hunt on a street-wear style like Off-White's 'OOO' sneakers? If you want a one-of-kind, look to the collaboration between designer labels and athletic brands, like Marni's colourful take on the classic Veja shoe.
Below, we've gathered the 30 best designer sneakers to invest in now:
Ganni x New Balance is the latest collaboration between a designer and a sneaker brand to keep an eye on. Inspired by the “everyday athletics” of modern city life, the 2002R sneaker is a high-energy take on the circa 2010 technical running model with a classic New Balance shape and Ganni joie de vivre.
Logomania is one of the aspects of Y2K fashion that Gen Z has wholeheartedly embrace with Gucci's gender-fluid fashion and singular aesthetic a fast favourite. Designed with a thick sole and bulky construction, the Rhyton sneaker's retro look with a vintage logo inspired by 1980s prints is an easy addition to any wardrobe.
Prada is the accessory brand that can do no wrong in 2022. With its Re-Edition handbags, envy-inducing loafers and futuristic kitten heels, it is no surprise that its logo-plaque sneakers is up to par. Made for every day use, the sleek tennis shoe shape and minimalist logo is easily paired with suit trousers and distressed denim alike.
When considering designer sneaker shoe collabs, the longstanding partnership between Comme Des Garçons Play and Converse is arguably one of the first to come to mind. Having collaborated for decades, the now-iconic Chuck Taylors with the heart-shaped detail first came out in 2015, and ever since have been a trusty spring/summer designer shoe.
“Marni is all about style, Veja is all about the journey,” Veja’s co-founder and creative director Sebastien Kopp said of the recent collaboration. On the classic canvas of Veja’s sneakers, Marni’s playful print – colourful scribbles, as if someone took a marker to the shoe – comes to life. While it is far from the usual minimalist, everyday footwear, the pair makes for a surprisingly versatile addition to our collection.
Though the silhouette may not be at the pinnacle of its popularity compared to previous years — especially with the release of Balenciaga's trail sneaker having stolen much of the limelight – the triple S sneaker is still in our steadfast daily rotation. So if you're into chunky dad sneakers, these are a solid choice.
Swedish Axel Arigato has established itself as one of the Scandinavian designer brands to watch when it comes to sneakers. Its signature embroidered bird print and stamped gold logo is a modern yet minimalist way to do branding. The handmade sneaker offers an upper and lining made from Italian leather, set on a cup-sole incorporating a mix of recycled and virgin rubber.
Saint Lauent's low-top 'Court Classic' sleek sneakers are embroidered with the label's logo in black stitching at the side, the stitching giving the smooth white leather some tactility. With minimalist branding, these designer sneaker are easily worn everyday whether paired with flirty dresses, tailoring or relaxed denim.
Beginning with a focus in masterfully constructed cashmere pieces, Brunello Cucinelli became synonymous with fine Italian craftsmanship and casual luxury. No surprise then that the brand's sneakers err on the side of elevated everyday luxury. In a trio of muted greys and navy blue, these sneakers are begging for a pair of light wash wide-legged denim to skim the top.
Looking back on the '80s and '90s tennis shoes' aesthetic, Off-White infuses its Out of Office 'OOO' sneakers with contrasting accents and modernised retro details. Crafted from soft leather, they're marked with a 'for walking' quote motif at the sides and a signature safety tag at the upper.
Maison Margiela's Replica sneakers is another style that have gained icon status among the fashion set and sneakerheads alike. Instantly recognisable due to the white stitch at the heel (a staple seen in all of the brand's garments and accessories), they're a low-key flex for the fashion set.
Set on a chunky rubber heel for optimal comfort, we find ourselves turning to Dolce & Gabbana's sneakers for how they feel. Featuring a chunky heel, an almond toe, a lace fastening, a back embossed logo stamp, a perforated detail and a contrasting heel counter, they merge fashion and function beautifully.
Another recommendation from our digital editor Eliza Sörman Nilsson, they were the trusty dance-floor shoes for the bridesmaids at her sister wedding. With these shoes, the worry about keeping them pristine is taken out of the equation as they come pre-distressed.
Another brand favoured by the fashion crowd, we've all fallen in love with AMI Paris' heart-shaped A logo. While it is not included in the brand's sneaker offering, we adore the pared-back aesthetic of these Paris-inspired calf leather sneakers – the perfect addition to your Frandinavian wardrobe.
JW Anderson's sneakers are all about understated branding. Embossed with the brand's logo on the leather side panels, the name is also spelled out on the laces. Set on chunky rubber soles and inspired by combat styles, they were made for stomping through the city.
Each panel of white leather used to make Christian Louboutin's 'Vieirissima' sneakers is complete with contrasting red edges, a nod to the brand's instantly recognisable soles. Made for the sporty person who wants to sport a pair of red-bottoms, we suggest you wear them with anything from sharp tailoring to feminine dresses.
Another iconic Swedish sneaker brand, Eytys' Odessa style derives it's distinct look from a brutalist interpretation of 1940s sports shoes. Easily worn everyday, the distinct satin tongue label and heavy ribbed sole have been sported by everyone in the Swedish style set.