… or Vans for that matter. After all, you can always return to your trusty Checkerboard Slip-Ons and Air Max 1s. But let’s think outside the usual. Let’s spend those holiday funds on something equally-cool, but perhaps more … elevated. Below, our picks for affordable sneaker brands to explore right now. Happy hunting.
Iconic. Athletic. Italian. Need we say more?
Our pick: We forever swoon for their retro runner low-top—the Camaro—but right now we are definitely feeling the Heritage Eclipse Premium, $140, diadora.com. Also, stay on the lookout for cool exclusives from them like the newly-released (and already sold out) Packer x Raekwon x Diadora N.9000 collaboration. Straight fire.
Chunky, rubber-soled perfection.
Our pick: The Star Dribble—quite possibly the most perfectly-simple, canvas high-top in creation. We dig all the gum sole color ways and the monochromatic corduroy style, too. ($69, endclothing.com)
Finnish vibes with a technical mid-90s aesthetic.
Our pick: Their heritage fusion shoe—the Aria, $135, bloomingdales.com. Also peeps the collection called the #hockeypack inspired by—you guessed it—hockey!
Minimal French design meets socially and environmentally conscience.
Our pick: V-10 rubber-trimmed leather sneakers in black and white, $150, mrporter.com. Or for a color-pop, we love this Campo combo.
Brooklyn-based purveyors of luxurious basics.
Our pick: Start with the ultra-versatile and understated Royale Blanco ($179, greats.com) and work your way up to owning multiple hues (like our second favorite—Cuoio).
Equal parts urban and adventurer.
Our pick: The all-black Cloudnova—super lightweight and sleek. ($149.99, on-running.com)
Honorable Mention: Also check out Salomon, Obra, Seavees, Cariuma, and Spalwart.
Okay, okay, we couldn't really do a sneaker roundup without dropping a few current faves from Nike and Vans.
Hello, Nike Dunk Low, we see you—personalized, of course!
And the new Vans x Anderson .Paak Old Skool (seen above) ... in two words: LUST. WORTHY.
