It’s safe to say that we’re way past the point of sneakers being relegated to the gym or casual weekend outings. Rather, over the years, the humble sneaker has emerged as a must-have footwear for every occasion.
Not just about keeping your feet happy, athleisure shoes elevate your entire daily experience through expression of style, performance and, of course—comfort. You can wear them on the court for a few rounds of tennis, then head straight to post-workout drinks without feeling daggy.
So whether you’re a city explorer, a fitness fanatic, a busy person on the go, or simply someone who appreciates the joy of a comfortable step, there’s a pair of athleisure shoe that suits your style and purpose. Check out our picks below.
Our pick of the best athleisure shoes 2024
Alo Yoga
Recovery Mode Sneaker
If you haven’t heard, Alo Yoga launched sneakers! What looks like a simple classic white lifestyle shoe is actually super technical for recovery and everyday wear through a sleek, contemporary streetwear design that really does go with everything.
Vans
Classic Slip-On Sneakers
You know the saying, “don’t fix what isn’t broken?” Vans fit pretty perfectly into that category. This classic slip on style is nothing new but they prove to a best seller year after year and a timeless funky classic.
New Balance
9060
Dadcore fashion continues and we’re not mad about it! The New Balance 9060s are full of comfort features like a dual-density midsole featuring ABZORB and SBS cushioning, which minimises the weight of each stride while maximising momentum. Wear them with baggy denim for a cool Y2K aesthetic or pair with athleisure for your most stylish errand-running fit.
New Balance
550
If the 9060’s are too chunky for you, the 550s might be more your style. Seen on Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner and even Taylor Swift, they are an “it sneaker” that live up to the hype. Although they require a break-in period, the more you wear them, the more you’ll love them.
Veja
V-90 Sneakers
Giving French girl chic aesthetic, the Veja V-90s are modern and sporty with a retro flare (and come in a variety of colours). Each sneaker is produced in high-standard factories in Brazil using top notch organic cotton, leather, and canvas. At an under-$270 price point, you can score a pair that’s not only high quality and chic, but you can feel good about supporting the brand’s much bigger mission, too.
adidas
Originals Gazelle
From the classic Sambas to a variety of Gazelles, adidas Originals are having a major resurgence. Everywhere you look you’ll see someone sporting either style so it’s one that we had to put to the test for comfort and performance. While it was a close running, the Gazelles takes the cake in terms of comfort.
Everlane
The Day Sneaker
Everlane’s Day Sneaker is a perfectly priced, clean, crisp shoe that you can quite literally wear with anything. It’s one style that belongs in everyone’s closet—whether you opt for the clean white or make a subtle statement in one of their muted colours.
Nike
Cortez
The Nike Cortez is the perfect balance between athletic, work-appropriate, and streetwear-style sneakers. Designed in 1972, the Cortez was the first Nike shoe to feature the Swoosh. It’s also a pop culture icon, featured in Forrest Gump among other movies. So basically, you’re wearing a piece of history with these babies.
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