Sneaker Roundup (from a Non-Sneakerhead)

Aging, injuries, and the general post-COVID consensus that comfort is here to stay have made (most) new additions to my shoe collection include arch support and shock absorption.

Unfortunately, finding footwear that fits the bill without looking completely geriatric isn’t always easy.

These are my favourites: they integrate seamlessly with my wardrobe and take me from travel to work to dog walks in comfort.

Tennis Shoes

A pair of minimal tennis shoes goes so far in my wardrobe. I style them with dresses, jeans, shorts, skirts, trousers - they’re a wardrobe staple for me since they’re a no brainer come spring and summer. I had a great pair from Vagabond that I bought out of desperation after a bad packing decision in Stockholm. They did me well but when my dog was a puppy he claimed them.

I opted to get the ON Running Roger Advantage shoe as a replacement. They’re clean but still have interesting details and are super comfortable. Sometimes I wish I sized up a half size but they work and they’re in regular rotation.

ON Running Cloudaway Kanazawa

The Cloudaways are designed for travel. They’re super light, required no break in time, and add a bit of interest to an outfit while still operating as a neutral. I love the stitch detail, subtle reflective elements, and their ‘speed lace’ system is super easy and convenient to use.

New Balance

I find New Balance are the most comfortable out-of-the-box big sneaker brand. They’re well made, durable, and cute. I got the 237s a decade ago, while on the hunt for blacked out sneakers that felt sleeker than my runners. They still look brand new.

From the full-on dad sneaker 530s to the retro, angular 327s, they add something to basic outfits. A new style seems to trend every year, so find the style that looks best with your aesthetic - personally, I stick with the neutrals.

Salomon

These exploded on the trend scene over the past few years. They look cool but they’re not great for daily city wear. They’re water resistant and really great for trail running and hiking - the grip is unparalleled. The heel is a bit stiff and the ‘quicklace’ system is not as intuitive as the ON Running one. They’re function-forward so I also find them a bit harder to style for an every day look - I find you need to lean in to the sporty aesthetic or counterbalance it with some tailoring.

Hoka One One Bondi 7

These are my running shoes that I wear to the gym, jogging, or on longer walks. I find them less cute and harder to style than my other sneakers but I get a surprising amount of compliments on them. They’ve seen me through many kilometres and are chunky in a fun way, so, it’s a trade off we can make.

Shoes I Don’t Own but Wouldn’t Mind Owning

Honourable mentions to the sneakers I think about.

Chloe Nama Sneaker

This stitching is wonderful. Depending on the colour way, these are my favourite kind of piece: high impact, unique, but also neutral and low key. That juxtaposition helps elevate basic outfits without demanding every look be built around the piece. I’m pretty hard on my shoes, though, and know that whether I pay $20 or $800, that sole is going to wear out just the same - so usually designer footwear is a pass for me.

Nike Plant Cork Pack Collection

I got the pleasure of spending a shopping day in NYC with real sneaker heads. Among the shrink wrapped shoes, these stood out to me. They speak to my love for gardening, are an effort toward sustainable production using natural materials, and add a little feminine touch. Unfortunately, I haven’t found my size in the Indigo Blazers and, honestly, I don’t find Nikes very comfortable or high quality (controversial opinion, I know).

Muji Water Repellant Sneakers with Laces

Cheap and cheerful, Brittany Bathgate mentioned these in a video and I’ve been considering them ever since. They are a cleaner Converse alternative with more arch support.

What sneakers are your daily go-to or favourite pair?