"Every few years, a new popular sneaker will take over the trend cycle and seem to be on the feet of every other person you pass on the street. Remember how popular Air Force 1s, New Balance 550s, and Reebok Club C’s were in years past? Let’s face it: After they completely took over last year, we all have a bit of Samba fatigue.
This Baggy Dad style from Levi’s is a tried-and-true favorite our team swears by, made famous by an effortlessly cool fit and PJ-like comfort.
2024 is all about shopping for items that last, no matter what the trend cycle has to say. Sneakers are particularly personal—some are best for wide feet, others fare better for those with on-the-go schedules, and so on. It’s undeniable that the Samba style is chic and looks great with a myriad of outfits. But, if you’re not a fan of the style or are simply looking for a new addition to your sneaker collection, we’re here to confirm that there are plenty of up-and-coming options worth trying this year.
When choosing a sneaker, it’s important to factor in the ways you’ll likely style them. Are they a throw-on-and-go pair for running errands? Will you style them with a dress throughout the summer or all year round with jeans and a sweater? It’s also ideal to shop for sneakers based on your current personal style. Maybe you’re looking for a neutral pair that will go with your minimalist wardrobe or a statement shoe that adds a pop of personality. Whatever your sneaker preference, below are eight sneakers worthy of a try. From platforms to sustainably made styles, keep scrolling for the best sneakers of 2024.
1. The Sustainably Made Option
SAYE is an up-and-coming brand that has styles similar to Veja and Autry and boasts commendable transparency in how they produce their sneakers. Their mission is to offer vegan sneakers that take responsibility for lessening the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The Modelo ‘89 style is made with corn vegan napa, and the interior is created by bamboo and recycled PET. It’s an easy option to style, and the white and black tones are sure to mix well with a minimalist closet.
2. The Alternative Adidas Style
If you’ve had enough of the Adidas craze, keep scrolling. But, if you liked the Sambas but they didn’t quite work for you, the Handball Spezial style is a great alternative. It has a slightly raised gum sole, so it’s not entirely flat like the Samba but comes in just as many interesting colorways. The Samba can be uncomfortable for wide feet, but the Spezial style is cozy enough for all-day wear.
3. The Metallic Statement-Maker
Just like cheetah print, metallic is a statement neutral that comes “in” and “out” of style often but is beloved by maximalists year-round. Alohas may be known for creating sunny summer sandals, but their sneaker line is just as chic. The metallic Tb.490 style is a statement shoe that can be a game-changing addition to any closet. Whether worn with minimal ensembles or paired with bold colors and prints to achieve a maximalist vibe, they’re sure to bring a pop of personality to any outfit.
4. The Vintage-Inspired Choice
For the Samba-obsessed looking for a similar shoe to give the Adidas style a rest now and then, the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 style is a perfect alternative everyday shoe. The silhouette leans into the retro-sneaker revival we’ve been seeing for the past couple of years but does so in a wearable, sleek way. The style has since developed a cult following since its release in 1966, and for good reason: The shoe is casual, versatile, and easy to wear.
5. The Timeless Splurge
Willing to splurge on a designer sneaker? The Beth Sneaker from Isabel Marant should be your first choice. Often, sneakers get left behind because of their sporty appeal. This version from Isabel Marant is like the older, more feminine sister of Adidas Sambas. It has a slightly feminine edge to it that pulls more sophisticated than the typical sneaker thanks to the French seam seen on the tongue and throughout the velcro strap.
6. The Platform Option
Platform-style shoes were noticeable across the Spring/Summer 2024 runways, but they aren’t just a passing trend. Platform sneakers have a cult following and can give us a little bit of height when we need it the most. They’re ideal to style with long baggy jeans or trousers, and this UK-loved brand should be the next pair you’re adding to your cart. Enter: Stepney Workers Club, the IYKYK brand that’s equal parts skater-core and chic. The Dellow-S Strike style comes in four neutral colorways and has a slight platform. It’s the perfect cool-girl platform sneaker that will still be “in style” in 10 years.
7. The Option Your Dad Would Love
When it comes to fashion trends, what goes around comes back around, and chunky sneakers are no exception to the rule. If you’ve not yet tried a dad-core New Balance style, this is your sign to do so. The 9060s are a new covetable style that is almost always sold out (but the pair below is still available!) The wavy sole re-interprets the classic 990 sneakers you’re used to seeing from New Balance, and it gives it a modern edge. Wear them to pilates, with jean shorts and a top in the summer, or with baggy jeans and a blazer for a casual-corporate core look.
8. The Sporty Style
For those of us who commute to work or love an afternoon hot-girl walk, Asics should be your next go-to shoe. Although they’re seen as a running sneaker, their lifestyle options, like the Gel-1130 are ideal for everyday wear. They’re not as chunky as, say, a New Balance sneaker and lean slightly more feminine. The peach colorway is a soon-to-be popular tone (Peach Fuzz is Pantone 2024 color of the year), and they come in a handful of neutral to colorful styles.
