sneakers
From street fashion's sock shoe to chunky sneakers, find the everyday pair that works best for you and your closet, below. Image Credit: Unsplash/Lefteris Kallegris

Trainers enjoy a staple status in our wardrobes, even if we don’t engage in a game of ball or hit the gym as often. They're easy to slip into, make for the best choice when travelling by foot and elevate streetwear and formal attires to the next level. It's their lightweight sporty form factor that keeps sneakers widely popular among celebrities and fashion icons, alike. Plus, you can never go wrong with a classic silhouette on the shoe rack. We’ve picked out the trendiest sneakers for men below, so you can tie together your athleisure look or gift a loved one. Avail yourself of an Amazon Prime subscription to get your sneakers delivered within a day.

1. Best Overall: New Balance Men's 515 V1 Sneaker 

Pros

  • Classic silhouette
  • Shock-absorbing midsole and heel
  • Tough rubber outsole

Cons

  • Runs small for wide feet

New Balance retains its vintage form in the 515 V1 casual kicks. Sneakerheads will love the old-school look with their everyday style, since these are designed for all-day comfort. A lightweight EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) cushioning in the midsole and heel absorbs shock and the flexible rubber outsole ensures sufficient traction. Nearly every happy reviewer has attested to the comfort levels in these sneakers, also commending their classic retro-inspired look. Our colour pick is in olive, but you can select from all-black, cobalt, wheat and more shades.

2. Best Fashion Sneakers: Champion Rally Pro

Pros

  • Must-have for street fashion fans
  • Ankle support
  • Sleek sock silhouette
  • Breathable knit upper

Cons

  • Only has light cushioning for the insole

A streetwear essential, the high-top sock sneaker is often spotted under sweatpants and loose cargo pants. The trendy shoe features a breathable knit upper and a chunky rubber outsole, like those found in the Rally Pro sneakers by Champion. They’re fairly easy to wear and take off, thanks to the sock style and the front and rear pull tabs on the ankle. The pair offers a snug fit and a flattering silhouette in eight other colours, including white and navy, besides our all-black pick. Reviewers appreciate the ankle support, too.

3. Best Canvas Sneakers: Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Faxon SK VLC

Pros

  • Flatters business casual wear
  • Timeless canvas design
  • Roomy toe box

Cons

  • No arch support; might need added insoles

Canvas sneakers are a well-known summer shoe, and you simply cannot miss out on stunning others with this pair by Polo Ralph Lauren. The Faxon SK VLC sneakers are somewhat a cross between formal and casual; the style you’d wear to work without second-guessing your outfit. Since they’re low-top, the sneakers look great under shorts or chino pants. It features leather laces, complementing the logo branding of the same material on the tongue. The signature pony emblem is embroidered on the quarter panel.

4. Best Budget: Crocs LiteRide 360 Pacer

Pros

  • Water-resistant shoe
  • Foam insoles for lightweight construction
  • Good grip

Cons

  • Might be uncomfortable without socks

Holiday sneakers call for a breathable upper and a lightweight build – the LiteRide 360 Pacer by Crocs does it all. Imagine discovering the cloud-like comfort of a Crocs clog, but in sneakers form. The LiteRide foam insoles make the pair feathery light and resilient against outdoor elements. You can also expect sufficient ventilation for your feet, even when you’re out and about near a water body, since they dry quickly. The rubber outsole has a sturdy grip on wet rocks or pavement, so several reviewers have worn these as water shoes to the beach, park and elsewhere outdoors. Crocs recommends ordering a size up for a relaxed fit.

5. Best for Everyday Wear: Reebok Men's Bs7966 Fitness Shoes

Pros

  • Comfortable fit
  • Shock-absorbing midsole
  • Classic design with suede, nylon and leather details

Cons

  • Might be tight for wide feet

Here’s another retro pair for the throwbacks. Reebok’s Royal Ultras come in a low-cut design with an EVA midsole for shock absorption and a high abrasion rubber outsole. With suede accents in a subtle cream shade, these sneakers can easily replace your everyday pair, given how stylish and comfortable they are. Pair them under jeans or formal slacks – they'll work either way!

6. Best Athleisure Pair: Skechers Sport Men's Vigour 2.0 Serpentine

Pros

  • Comfortable memory foam
  • Sporty, athleisure look
  • Shock-absorbing midsole
  • Keeps feet cool

Cons

  • Rubber outsole is not non-slip

If you’re looking for a chunky silhouette, Skechers Vigor 2.0 Serpentine shoe is worth considering. It features the brand’s popular Memory Foam insole, along with a shock-absorbing midsole. Whether you’re on your feet a lot or need a versatile sport shoe for the gym, the pair accommodates all occasions. There are micro holes on the side panels that keep your feet cool throughout the day. According to Skechers, they’re meant for walking and fitness activities, while functioning as casual wear.

7. Best Formal Sneakers: Hugo Boss Saturn Low Top

Pros

  • Good alternative to dress shoes
  • Bamboo-charcoal fabric lining for reducing sweat and odour
  • Memory foam insoles

Cons

  • Expensive

The Hugo Boss Saturn Low Top sneakers are for those who wish their dress shoes were soft, pliable and sporty. These sneakers boast a minimalist construction, without losing out on their smart, chic appearance, making them a perfect alternative to formal footwear. The insoles are made of memory foam for maximum cushioning and breathability. But the pair's best feature is the bamboo-charcoal fabric inside the shoe that takes care of moisture and odour. The Saturn Low Top are best reserved for an outing, where dress shoes might tire your feet out.

Our recommendations are independently chosen by Gulf News editors. If you decide to shop through links on our website, we may earn an affiliate commission, as we are part of Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.