You don’t have to be a certified sneakerhead to recognise the hold running shoes have on modern wardrobes. And while some occasions call for a pair of dainty slingbacks, chunky-soled boots or even trending Mary Janes, there’s a reason that we continue to reach for sporty styles day after day.
From dad silhouettes done up in multicoloured hues to high-fashion pairs that take a tone-on-tone approach, these are the best non-white sneakers to buy this season.
Shades of beige
If you’re not willing to stray too far from your favourite white sneakers, shades of beige and “greige” are a good place to start. Chunky silhouettes continue to reign supreme this season, with styles like Veja’s Venturi, New Balance’s 327 and Hoka’s Clifton (a pair that has quickly transcended running clubs and made its way into the streetwear scene) topping wishlists.
Melbourne brand Bared updates its sleek leather Hornbill 3 in an autumnal striped design. Meanwhile, Toteme, Loewe and The Row deliver on quiet luxury with styles that fall into the investment sneaker category.
Trending tones
Tonal kicks are steadily taking over. If you can’t get your hands on a pair of Adidas Sambas – which have been spotted on everyone from Frank Ocean and Jonah Hill to Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner of late – the brand’s Gazelle is the next best thing. This burgundy style is a classic choice, or opt for a trending two-tone pair like this or this from the brand. New Balance also renders its 9060s and 574s in blushing shades this season, while Veja offers up its V-10 silhouette in a lavender colourway.
Asics is yet another sportswear giant that has crossed over to street-chic status. This pair of Gel Quantum sneakers and this update to the Gel-1130 are comfort-boasting commuter shoes you can feel free to wear all day. Reebok’s Club C Cardi V2 in “vital blue” is sure to boost your wardrobe, while the brand’s Cl Nylon is a quintessential style.
Brazilian-born, sustainable label Cariuma has produced a slew of single-hue styles in collaboration with Pantone: lilac, yellow and green have caught our eyes. Loewe keeps the verdant vibe going with this update to the Flow Runner, while Jacquemus x Nike makes a case for trending brown tones.
Bold brights
Amp things up with multicoloured styles that promise to serve looks. The Weekender from Aussie brand Rollie comes in Soda, Cobalt Clash and Mellow Haze colourways this season.
Puma updates its retro-cool Suede sneaker in a colour-block combo and New Balance supercharges its 580s with bold blues.
All black
The antithesis of all-white sneakers, black styles have a timeless quality. They also require much less maintenance to keep you looking smart. Acne Studios offer a luxe take on a sporty style, while Salomon’s hiking-inspired hero silhouette is a new favourite among the fashion crowd. Keep things classic with a pair of Vans Old Skool or Adidas Superstar. Cariuma also offers its signature knit Ibi in monochrome.
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