Sneakers
Jan 26, 2024

My Friend Asked Me for Sneaker Recs—22 Styles I'd Suggest as a Shopping Expert

by Chichi Offor

As the go-to fashion person in my friend group, It's not uncommon for my friends to lean on me for a range of fashion, shopping, and styling advice. Pinpointing the perfect closet staples, highlighting affordable basics, and even giving them retailer-specific advice—I've done it all. The most recent inquiry from a friend was to recommend the best sneakers on the internet, so I did just that.

I took to some of my favorite retailers to fulfill this ask, including Shopbop, Nordstrom, and StockX. I dug through the virtual aisles of these sites, and I was able to handpick high-quality sneakers that would make my friends and anyone else excited. Keep scrolling to uncover my list of the best sneakers online. Maybe a new favorite pair of trainers awaits you.

Photo:

@elizagracehuber

Adidas had a big moment last year. The brand's soccer-style sneakers, Sambas and Gazelles, dominated our social feeds for much of 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024. You can score the most basic black-and-white styles or one of the higher-ticket collabs, such as the Wales Bonner style.

Photo:

@babiekale

Nikes are consistently in the zeitgeist, but right now, Cortez and Gamma Force styles are what fashion folks are talking about. Style your Nikes with fun socks to add a bit of personality to your looks.

Photo:

@luciacuesta

While Onitsuka Tiger's yellow-and-black Kill Bill colorway has been the reigning champ for trendy sneakers among the fashion crowd, the silver pair has also become quite popular.

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@nataliegrayherder

New Balance has always done retro sneakers well. The brand reissued its vintage-style basketball sneakers, the 550s, and they've been a favorite among editors and WWW readers alike.

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@himichelleli

Cute performance sneakers have been all the rage—first Salomon and now Asics. Whether you're looking to run long distances or style the cutest look, running sneakers might be worth a shot. These Asics are stunning and look extra cute with leg warmers or slouchy socks.

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