- The design is an elevated take on a beloved classic: the Converse Chuck Taylor
- Unisex style and affordable price point makes this sneaker highly accessible
- Good entry point to designer shoes, with its distinctive yet subtle logo
- The casual style make these wearable for everyday
Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.
Updated March 29, 2024
There are sneakers and then there are designer sneakers. While you can buy a pair of shoes from any mid-range brand and be fine enough, there’s something special about a pair of sneakers from one of the designers on this list. Yes, you’ll pay a premium for this footwear, but that’s because of the high quality materials and superior craftsmanship that go into every product. When you’re wearing a pair of shoes day in and day out, you want them to be the best quality you can afford and in the style you like best. Investing in sneakers that you truly love can elevate the daily experience and give you a pep in your step that’s hard to beat.
Designer footwear isn’t a casual purchase for most of us, which is why it’s important to find the right pair. I personally want my shoes to celebrate the brand they’re from, whether that’s in clever embossed details, signature brand colors, or a tasteful logo. Other shoppers may look for lace-free designs, or retro designs that look as good today as they did in the 1970s. The great thing is that once you find the ones you love, you can pair them with so many different outfits. If you stick to neutral colors, I find most of these options can also be worn in more formal settings, or used to provide stylish contrast to dressier clothing. And the quality manufacturing means you can count on these shoes lasting you years, especially if you take good care of them.
How to choose a pair of designer sneakers
Brand name
For many people, buying designer goods is not just about the product itself; it’s about buying a piece of a beloved brand. When looking for the right pair of designer sneakers, consider the specific designer attached to the footwear. You might have a particular love of one brand and want to support and represent them, or you might have heard particularly good things about a new-to-you designer’s craftsmanship. Keep this in mind when browsing, so you can feel confident when making this larger purchase.
Within a brand’s collection, there will be many style options to choose from: Maybe the shoes will have the brand’s widely known name or logo emblazoned on them, or maybe it will just be other fans of the brand that recognize them. Whatever your aesthetic style, you should be able to find a piece from a designer that you’re proud to wear.
Price point
Designer items tend to cost more than their non-luxury counterparts, but there’s still a large range of price points within the designer category. If you’re looking to purchase a more affordable pair of shoes, you can find designer footwear within the $200 to 400 range, or spend as much as $1000 for a piece of Prada. And of course, there are a number of mid-range products. It’s helpful to begin your shopping with a clear number in mind for what you want to spend, so you can narrow your search and only look at products that meet your budget.
Style
In recent years, sneakers have become a classic style choice for everyday life, not just the gym. Designer sneakers in particular are more of a fashion statement than a performance shoe, so it’s important to find a pair that is comfortable but that also works with your wardrobe, whether it skews more casual or more formal. Some designer sneakers use expensive leather materials, which can make the shoe feel more luxurious, while others embrace a sporty, informal aesthetic. Consider the colorways available and whether the brand has incorporated extra embellishments, to ensure you purchase a pair that feels wearable to you.
Fit
Sneakers are known to be comfortable, but an ill-fitting pair will still cause you issues. Look at whether the brand offers half sizes and double check how their sizing matches yours; many designers use European sizing or their own sizing, as opposed to US sizes. (Also, if you’re used to wearing running shoes or workout shoes, you may want to re-measure against the brand’s size guide.) If you often experience problems with fit, there are a few design features that can help. Lace-up styles can help create a more secure fit, allowing you to tighten and loosen the shoe as needed. High-tops provide greater ankle support, although they can be more frustrating to put on and take off.
Our top picks for best designer sneakers
Best value designer sneakers: Comme des Garçons Play x Converse Chuck Taylor Hidden Heart High Tops
For many people interested in designer goods, the one thing keeping them from making the purchase is the price tag. That’s why I love the collaboration between Comme des Garçons and Converse, which has produced this irreverent take on the classic Chuck Taylor high-top sneaker. Using Comme des Garçons’ signature “hidden heart” logo, the sneaker comes in four different colors that each feature a peekaboo heart in a contrasting shade.
The iconic Chuck Taylor silhouette will be familiar to most: The vintage look is easy to style with everything in your closet, but now has a modern edge. I also like that these shoes are unisex, making them a truly accessible choice. The textile upper and rubber sole has kept the price-tag down, with this pair of sneakers costing just $150—a bargain for designer wear. Of course, if you’re looking for a more statement shoe that screams luxury, perhaps this is a too casual choice. But I think this is a great entry point into designer sneakers that still looks the part.
Specifications:
- Material: Textile upper and lining, rubber sole
- Sizes: Unisex men’s 3/women’s 5 – men’s 12/women’s 14, some half sizes
- Colors: 4
- Fit: Men’s true to size, women’s fit large (go a half size smaller)
- Style: Lace-up, high-top
- Price: $150
What we like:
What we don't Like:
- Less obviously “designer” due to the familiar silhouette
- High-top style isn’t everyone’s preference
The bottom line:
This collaboration between Comme des Garçons and Converse is an accessible way to get into the designer sneaker game and features a fun twist on the Chuck Taylor design thanks to the hidden heart logo.
Get it here: Comme des Garçons Play x Converse Chuck Taylor Hidden Heart High Tops
Best white designer sneakers: Common Projects Original Achilles Leather Sneakers
Best white designer sneakers
Common Projects Original Achilles Leather Sneakers
Sometimes it’s the simplest things that scream luxury the loudest. These Original Achilles sneakers by Common Projects are made in Italy from high-quality leather and have a sleek, monochrome look. My favorites are the ones in classic white, with the only contrasting detail being the gold-stamped serial number on the heel; these are the perfect way to nail both the white sneaker trend and the minimal sneaker trend.
For the few occasions when white won’t do, there are four other neutral colors to choose from, but these shoes really are incredibly versatile. The lace-up design is classic but the white-on-white colorway ensures they don’t draw unnecessary attention. While you can find white sneakers for less than the $400 you’ll spend on the Original Achilles, here you’re paying for quality materials and a timeless design. And to keep these designer kicks looking new, read our guide on how to clean white shoes.
Specifications:
- Material: 80% leather, 20% various materials
- Sizes: EU sizes 37 - 47
- Colors: 5
- Fit: True to size, size up if you’re a half size
- Style: Low-top, lace-up
- Price: $400
What we like:
- Really clean silhouette that will go with everything
- High-quality materials keep this simple design feeling like a luxury product
- Also available in four other neutral shades, for a similarly monochrome look
- The signature gold stamp on the heel is a nice nod to the quality manufacturing
What we don't Like:
- Might take a bit of time to break in, due to the leather construction
The bottom line:
These Common Projects Original Achilles sneakers are the perfect marriage of the white sneaker trend and the minimalist sneaker trend, with beautiful high-quality leather.
Get it here: Common Projects Original Achilles Leather Sneakers
Best leather designer sneakers: Prada Downtown Leather Sneakers
Best leather designer sneakers
Men's Downtown Leather Sneakers - White - Size 11
Leather materials are a great way to dress up casual sneakers, adding a bit of luxury to an everyday shoe. I’m particularly drawn to the Prada Downtown Leather Sneakers because of their shiny patent finish, which helps them maintain a bit of an edge. These sneakers are sporty in design and based on classic basketball shoes, featuring perforated details and cross-over lacing. But the monochrome colorway—which is available in three different shades—and the patent finish keeps these looking elevated.
A triangular Prada logo is placed on the side of each pair, for an extra touch of glamor. The combination of design and materials make these more versatile than a standard sneaker, yet more wearable than a dress shoe. Unsurprisingly, Prada shoes don’t come cheap: These are the most expensive sneakers on my list at over $1,000. However, if you’re willing to make the investment, I’m confident you’ll be able to enjoy this footwear at all kinds of occasions and for years to come.
Specifications:
- Material: Patent leather, leather, rubber
- Sizes: 6 - 12 (Prada sizing)
- Colors: 3
- Fit: Prada sizing is unique; refer to the conversion chart
- Style: Lace-up, basketball-style
- Price: $1,100
What we like:
- Classic basketball design with an edge, thanks to the patent leather finish
- High-quality materials and made in Italy
- Sleek monochrome coloring, with matching laces and soles, creates a modern look
- More comfortable than a dress shoe thanks to its cushioned design
What we don't Like:
- The most expensive sneaker on this list at $1,100
- Some shoppers don’t like an overt logo
The bottom line:
Prada’s Downtown Leather Sneakers elevate classic sporty design with a patent leather finish that makes these shoes versatile and modern.
Get it here: Prada Downtown Leather Sneakers
Best metallic designer sneakers: Jimmy Choo Diamond Light Maxi/F Sneakers
Best metallic designer sneakers
Diamond Light Maxi/F
Many people think of sneakers as everyday footwear, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a bit
of fun and wear something unexpected. These Jimmy Choo Diamond Light Maxi/F sneakers come in an eye-catching silver metallic finish that is surprisingly wearable. The platform sole is flattering, thanks to the extra height, and features a unique diamond design to contrast with the smooth silver upper. The thoughtful details make these shoes a statement, without making them too fussy for everyday wear.
The silhouette is a simple lace-up, low-top sneaker, so the materials can really shine (literally.) If you’re not a fan of overt brand logos, you may not enjoy that there are three different placements of “Jimmy Choo” on the heel, side, and front of the shoe. However, I personally think these are subtle enough to not distract from the metallic, while still letting you flex your designer goods. After all, if you’re spending nearly $700 on shoes, you want them to be appreciated.
Specifications:
- Material: Sustainable leather, rubber
- Sizes: 4 -13
- Colors: 1 (metallic silver)
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Lace-up, low top sneaker with a platform sole
- Price: $695
What we like:
- Vibrant silver finish throughout the whole upper makes these visually striking
- Platform sole features a unique diamond design that gives an architectural look
- Wide sizing range for greater accessibility
- Sustainable and high-quality materials, including the leather
What we don't Like:
- Only one color; no other metallic options, like bronze or gold
- Some people may not like the “Jimmy Choo” embossing on the heel, side, and front
The bottom line:
If you’re looking for something eye-catching yet tasteful, the Jimmy Choo Diamond Light Maxi/F sneakers are architectural and vibrant thanks to the metallic silver coloring.
Get it here: Jimmy Choo Diamond Light Maxi/F Sneakers
Best casual designer sneakers: Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede Sneakers
Best casual designer sneakers
Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede Sneakers
Just because they’re designer sneakers, it doesn’t mean you have to save them for a special occasion. These Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede Sneakers are a classic example of casual luxury, thanks to the elegant combination of materials which elevates the simple silhouette. Based on an Austrian running shoe from the 1970s, this design is a familiar low-top, lace-up shoe that pairs well with all kinds of casual outfits. The contrasting fabrics add a bit more dimension to an otherwise monochrome look, although the black colorway does also feature contrasting cream laces. The tan rubber soles keep these looking casual and also add improved grip, much like the internal straps that keep the foot fitting securely inside. These are sneakers that look and feel expensive, yet you can wear them all day, making them my preferred pick for casual designer footwear.
Specifications:
- Material: Leather, suede, rubber
- Sizes: European sizes 39 - 46, most half sizes
- Colors: 2
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Lace-up, low-top
- Price: $595
What we like:
- Elegant combination of suede and leather makes the simple design stylish
- Slightly retro design ensures this is a classic silhouette
- Internal straps and grippy soles create a secure fit for all day wear
- Very neutral color palette keeps these versatile for any outfit
What we don't Like:
- Suede fabric may need to be treated for effective weatherproofing
The bottom line:
For a versatile, everyday sneaker, look no further than the Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede sneakers, which are a stylish take on a classic 70’s running shoe.
Get it here: Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede Sneakers
Best platform designer sneakers: Prada Logo-Patch Flatform Sneakers
Best platform designer sneakers
Prada Logo-Patch Flatform Sneakers
Platform shoes are a great way to add additional height without straining the foot the way a high heel does. These flatform sneakers from Prada take things one step further, with an entirely flat and comfortable insole, supported by a chunky platform base. I like that Prada has made these in three bright summery styles, as it’s a nice change from the dominance of white and black in footwear.
I also like that they’ve made this shoe partially from recycled materials, so that consumers can feel both physically good and good about what they’re putting on their feet. As this is a slightly older style from Prada, there are fewer sizes available for sale, but these fit true to size and are incredibly comfortable. The triangular Prada logo on the side also adds a touch of interesting detail on what is otherwise a very simple silhouette, bound to go well with everything in your closet.
Specifications:
- Material: Recycled polyamide, rubber, polyurethane resin, recycled polyester, elastane, leather
- Sizes: 6 - 11
- Colors: 3
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Low-top, lace-up platform sneakers
- Price: $1,070
What we like:
- Substantial chunky platform adds great height without straining the foot
- Available in three light, pretty colors that are a nice contrast to classic white/black
- The shoes incorporate a lot of sustainable, recycled fabrics
- Signature Prada logo adds a nice bit of detailing to the side of the shoe
What we don't Like:
- Limited shoe sizing available
- Very expensive at over $1000
The bottom line:
The Prada Logo-Patch Flatform Sneakers add height without the strain of high heels and are made from partially recycled materials, in three summery colors.
Get it here: Prada Logo-Patch Flatform Sneakers
Best logo designer sneakers: Burberry Check & Leather Sneakers
Best logo designer sneakers
Women's New Regis Check Sneakers - Archive Beige - Size 10
Sometimes you want to keep things subtle and other times you want to celebrate a designer brand. With the Burberry Check & Leather Sneakers, the brand’s iconic plaid print is given center stage and used throughout the shoe’s upper for a very recognizable look. There’s a clever balance between the tan check and the white trim, as Burberry incorporates both white laces and a white velcro strap for an undeniably secure fit. Then there’s the chunky sole, which curves up in the front for a modern look.
Burberry fans will also enjoy the embossed Burberry label on both the heel and strap, for added brand recognition. Of course, these sneakers won’t be for everyone—they have a very distinctive style and are overtly made by Burberry. But I like this playful, sporty take on the revered brand’s signature print and think it’s a powerful way to flex your designer footwear.
Specifications:
- Material: Cotton, leather, polyester, suede, thermoplastic polyurethane, rubber,
- Sizes: European sizes 35 - 42
- Colors: 1
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Lace-up and velcro sneaker with a chunky sole
- Price: $850
What we like:
- Clever use of the signature Burberry print, with just the right balance of white trim
- Chunky athletic design keeps these looking fresh, with a curved thick sole
- The combination of lacing and velcro straps guarantee a good fit
- Additional Burberry embossing for everyone leaning into the overt branded look
What we don't Like:
- Definitely on the more expensive end of the spectrum
- Not going to be for everyone as these have a very distinctive look
The bottom line:
If you want to lean into designer logos and branding, the Burberry Check & Leather sneakers are a bold and fun take that pairs the brand’s signature print with a chunky, cool silhouette.
Get it here: Burberry Check & Leather Sneakers
Best laceless designer sneakers: Isabel Marant Beth Leather Sneakers
Best laceless designer sneakers
Isabel Marant Beth Leather Sneakers
Laces are a classic fastening option for sneakers but they can be a pain, especially if they get loose throughout the day. Avoid all the hassle of laces with the Beth Leather sneakers from Isabel Marant, which feature three Velcro straps instead. These shoes are a breeze to put on and take off and the extra straps help you to adjust the fit exactly how you like it.
Available in two colorways, this intriguing design features a tan or black suede toe, a white or black leather upper, and a black or white leather heel for added visual interest. Isabel Marant has included waved edges and perforations throughout the sneaker, to keep things fresh, yet wearable. While shoes with straps can look a bit youthful or casual, I think that these thoughtful details elevate the design into a more grown-up product that will add flair to any outfit. I also appreciate the fuss-free straps, which make them an ideal choice for travel.
Specifications:
- Material: Leather, rubber
- Sizes: European sizes 35 - 41
- Colors: 2
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Three-strap velcro sneakers
- Price: $495
What we like:
- Three strap design creates a customized fit, as well as being easy to put on and take off
- Effective contrasting design, with a tan suede toe and black leather heel
- Attractive waved edges and perforations keep this from looking too clean and boring
- Under $500, which is reasonably priced for designer footwear
What we don't Like:
- Only black and white colorways available
- Velcro designs can look a bit too casual or youthful for some wearers
The bottom line:
The Isabel Marant Beth Leather Sneakers deploy three Velcro straps for a customized fit, in a sporty package that features attractive details like waved edging and perforation.
Get it here: Isabel Marant Beth Leather Sneakers
Best chunky designer sneakers: Stuart Weitzman Chunky Sole Sneaker
Best chunky designer sneakers
Stuart Weitzman Chunky Sole Sneaker in White/Black/Grey at Nordstrom, Size 10
If you’re tired of streamlined, lightweight sneakers, the Stuart Weitzman Chunky Sole Sneaker is the perfect solution. With a sporty aesthetic and an accentuated chunky sole, these shoes add weight and edge to casual outfits. They also provide great support for the foot, with their thicker base and lace-up design.
The Chunky Sole Sneaker comes in four colorways which all incorporate a white base and then contrasting accents, to provide some visual interest. Stuart Weitzman has included tonal appliqués on the shoes, in the form of a logo and brand name, to separate these from generic sneakers and make sure everyone knows they’re designer. The chunky style is very distinctive and not for everyone, yet it can be surprisingly versatile and I like that these feel modern yet classic at the same time. Even better, they cost under $300 so they’re much more accessible than most designer shoes.
Specifications:
- Material: Textile, synthetic fabric
- Sizes: 5 - 12
- Colors: 4
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Chunky soled, lace-up, low-top
- Price: $295
What we like:
- Thick, chunky sole creates a blocky, modern silhouette and gives extra height
- More affordably priced than most designer sneakers at under $300
- Tonal logo appliqués provide some added visual interest to an otherwise classic shoe
- Sporty style makes these a great casual option, with versatile white coloring
What we don't Like:
- Limited colorways; all options are predominantly white
- Only suited for casual outfits
- No half sizes
The bottom line:
The Stuart Weitzman Chunky Sole Sneakers are a statement shoe that adds height and dimension to an outfit, for under $300.
Get it here: Stuart Weitzman Chunky Sole Sneaker
Best low-top designer sneakers: Gucci New Ace Bee Embroidered Sneakers
Best low-top designer sneakers
Men's New Ace Bee Embroidered Sneakers - White - Size 12
Many designers have made low-top sneakers, but the Gucci New Ace Bee Embroidered Sneakers stand apart from the rest, thanks to their original styling of a classic silhouette. Premium white leather is supplemented with a grosgrain side detail in signature red and green stripes—and an embroidered bee. For further embellishment, each heel features a snake-print leather accent in either red or green, which keeps the shoes feeling playful. Gucci has kept the rest of the shoe white, including the lacing, to really let the details shine and keep these tasteful, rather than garish. I love how the brand hasn’t limited itself to standard sneaker decoration and has stamped its own mark on low-top sneakers, while still keeping the functionality intact. These sneakers manage to be both a statement choice and an everyday option, as long as you like a bit of color. This versatility helps to balance out the price tag of $790.
Specifications:
- Material: Leather, grosgrain, rubber
- Sizes: 4 - 14
- Colors: 1
- Fit: Fits large, consider buying a half size down
- Style: Low-top, lace-up sneaker
- Price: $870
What we like:
- Sleek simple silhouette that lets the Gucci details shine
- Attractive bee embroidery and clever use of the brand’s signature red and green
- High quality leather and rubber materials and made in Italy
- Low-top, lace-up design keeps these timeless and versatile
What we don't Like:
- The red and green colors might not work with every outfit
The bottom line:
For an original take on the classic low-top style, the Gucci New Ace Bee Embroidered Sneakers are an ideal choice that celebrates the brand in a new, timeless way.
Get it here: Gucci New Ace Bee Embroidered Sneakers
Best high-top designer sneakers: Off-White 3.0 Off Court Sneakers
Best high-top designer sneakers
Off-White 3.0 Off Court Sneakers
A high-top sneaker offers greater ankle support and foot stability, which makes them a popular choice both on and off the court. These Off-White 3.0 Off Court Sneakers are more for fashion than intense athletic activity, but they still provide a secure base and a comfortable fit up the ankle. You’ll also get a really original look, thanks to Off-White’s inclusion of a zip-tie tag and cotton panels in bright, contrasting colors. I love that these high-tops don’t look like anything else on the market, with their interesting overlapping construction, fun colorways, and unique accents. These are shoes that look modern and edgy, but still prioritize functionality; the rubber soles offer a sturdy grip and the lacing ensures a snug fit. They won’t be the right choice for everyone and they may not match with everything in your wardrobe, but they’ll be the superstar choice on the occasions that you do wear them.
Specifications:
- Material: Cotton, leather, polyamide, polyester, rubber, elastane
- Sizes: Italian sizing: 35 - 42
- Colors: 1
- Fit: True to size
- Style: High-top, lace-up
- Price: $790
What we like:
- Vivid accents and a zip-tie tag add fun and energy
- High-top style provides greater ankle support in a fashionable package
- Rubber sole offers extra grip for more athletic activities or slippery streets
- Multiple colorways and style options for enhanced individuality
What we don't Like:
- Unique design makes these less versatile than other options on the list
- Quite expensive at just under $800
The bottom line:
Off-White’s 3.0 Off Court sneakers combine an original aesthetic with a classic high-top shape, for anyone looking for shoes that are fun, comfortable, and a little different.
Get it here: Off-White 3.0 Off Court Sneakers
Best retro designer sneakers: Rag & Bone Retro Court Sneaker
Best retro designer sneakers
rag & bone Retro Court Sneaker in White/Dune at Nordstrom, Size 5Us
In fashion, what’s old is eventually new again. But why wait for an old style to come back into vogue when you can stick to classic retro designs that have already proved they stand the test of time? These Rag & Bone Retro Court sneakers are the ideal embodiment of a retro silhouette, re-envisioned for the 21st century with luxury fabrics. The leather and suede materials create an expensive-looking contrast on an otherwise simple shoe—take this a step further with the red-accented colorway.
The design is based on a classic basketball shoe, with a subtly perforated toe and monochrome matching laces. These are a staple sneaker that you can wear with any outfit and I enjoy the color selection, which covers every possible base including: black and cream, white, white with pistachio, and white with a red accent. No matter the occasion, these affordable and stylish designer sneakers will look as good today as they did back in the day.
Specifications:
- Material: Leather, suede, rubber
- Sizes: European sizes 35 - 46
- Colors: 6
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Low-top, lace-up sneaker
- Price: $275
What we like:
- Classic design that’s updated with luxury leather and suede materials
- Simple shape makes these easy to style with any outfit
- The six colorways ensure there’s a sneaker for every wardrobe’s color palette
- Nice affordable price at under $300
What we don't Like:
- Not particularly original
The bottom line:
Embrace a classic sneaker silhouette that’s been updated with luxury fabrics, yet costs under $300, with the Rag & Bone Retro Court Sneaker.
Get it here: Rag & Bone Retro Court Sneaker
Best slip-on designer sneakers: Vince Leather Warren Sneaker
Best slip-on designer sneakers
Vince Warren Platform Slip-On Sneaker in Ltstraw at Nordstrom, Size 8.5
Sneakers are some of the most practical and comfortable shoes around, but the laces mean they can require a bit more effort to put on and take off than I’d like. Get the best of both worlds with the Vince Leather Warren sneakers, which take the easy design of a classic low-top sneaker but swap out the lacing for slip-on functionality.
These shoes are supremely comfortable, thanks to the cushioned insole and the padded heel, so you can wear them with or without socks. The sole is also double the usual thickness, adding greater elevation and elongating the legs, while being hollow and lightweight. This makes them a great choice for errands, vacations, and even dressier occasions, thanks to the streamlined silhouette and breezy feel. I appreciate that Vince offers several different colors and leather textures, so you can find the pair that works the best with your wardrobe’s color palette.
Specifications:
- Material: Leather, rubber
- Sizes: 5 - 12
- Colors: 8
- Fit: True to size
- Style: Slip-on, low-top sneaker
- Price: $250
What we like:
- Easy slip-on silhouette that offers a cushioned insole and padded heel support
- Multiple attractive spring shades, including black, blue, and white options
- The double thick sole adds height, but is hollow and lightweight
- Affordable price of just $250
What we don't Like:
- Lack of lacing or Velcro makes the fit a bit looser and less secure
The bottom line:
The Vince Leather Warren Sneaker is an ideal slip-on option for a less sporty look that still offers the comfort and function of your favorite sneakers.
Get it here: Vince Leather Warren Sneaker
How we selected the best designer sneakers
Footwear comes in many different styles and everyone will have a different preference when it comes to aesthetics. Still, there are a few key features that all quality shoes embody. I made sure to take into consideration the following characteristics when building out this list.
Materials
When you’re spending a lot of money on designer products, you want the quality of the materials to reflect the higher price. I looked for shoes that incorporated high quality textiles that were then manufactured with care. I gave particular attention to environmentally friendly options such as recycled fabrics or sustainably sourced leather, as used in the Jimmy Choo Diamond Light Maxi/F sneaker. I also considered whether the fabrics are practical for daily wear and whether they offer useful qualities like breathability, cushioning, and water resistance.
Design
There are many great mid-range sneakers in the market, so a designer sneaker should ideally offer something a bit special to justify the higher price. I looked for creative takes on classic silhouettes, thoughtful inclusions of brand names or logos, and fun uses of color that would set the shoe apart from others in the market. I also considered how many colorways were available for each shoe style, as shoppers have different wardrobes to coordinate with and therefore versatility is key. It was also important to find original designs that provide variety and appeal to a mix of different buyers, to ensure there is something for everyone.
Price and value
It’s expected that you will spend more when buying designer versus non-designer, but I still considered the value you get from your purchase. I assessed how the price point correlated to the quality of materials and craftsmanship and to the brand’s recognition in the global market. I also made sure to include a mix of different price levels, to serve a range of different prospective shoppers; not all designer goods need to cost thousands of dollars.
Comfort and longevity
These shoes need to stand up to daily wear and look good while doing it, so I took into account my personal experience with the footwear, as well as the perspectives of customers and industry experts. I looked for features that promote improved comfort, such as underfoot cushioning and quality materials. I also reflected on the brands themselves, their reputation and commitment to quality, and the performance of their products over the years, to ensure that I only recommended sneakers that are likely to stand the test of time.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Are designer sneakers worth it?
While nobody needs designer sneakers, the right pair can inspire joy and delight. Designer goods tend to be made with higher quality materials and by skilled artisans, creating footwear that offers superior comfort and enhanced design. While you spend more upfront, these products are more likely to last and may even be the more economical option over time. If you can afford to invest in designer sneakers that you really love, then I believe they will repay that price through your enjoyment in wearing them. Tip: If you’re looking for more options, check out our guide to the best dress sneakers for men.
What is the most famous pair of sneakers?
The most famous pair of sneakers are likely the Nike Air Jordans, released in 1985. These shoes were a collaboration with Michael Jordan, the iconic basketball player who went on to win six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls. As Michael Jordan became more successful and famous, so too did his signature shoes. Air Jordans are widely worn for both fashion and athletic purposes, with Nike releasing updated versions of the shoe throughout the years. The most recent model, the Air Jordan XXXVII, came out in 2022.
Are expensive sneakers better?
Part of the designer price tag is simply for the brand name, which doesn’t make the product necessarily better or worse than another one. However, designer sneakers and expensive sneakers tend to also cost more because of the higher quality materials and craftsmanship that go into making them. This results in shoes that look more stylish and last longer, which may make them “better” in some shoppers’ eyes.
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.