Sneakers for Women Tested & Reviewed 2024

Posted by Jenniffer Sheldon on Sunday, April 14, 2024

Best Nike Collaboration Sneakers

Nike x Jacquemus Air Humara LX Sneakers

x Jacquemus Air Humara LX Sneakers

Best Nike Collaboration Sneakers

Nike x Jacquemus Air Humara LX Sneakers

Credit: Farfetch

Nike and Jacquemus were the pairing the sneaker world didn't know it wanted...and then absolutely needed. The first drops in 2022 sold out almost instantly. Still, I tracked down the reimagined Halara sneaker—designer Simon Porte Jacquemus's favorite Nike silhouette—with ribbon trim and a gold-tone swoosh on Farfetch.

Sizes: 8–14

Best Luxury Sneakers

Chanel Sneakers Fabric & Suede Calfskin Multicolor

Sneakers Fabric & Suede Calfskin Multicolor

Best Luxury Sneakers

Chanel Sneakers Fabric & Suede Calfskin Multicolor

Credit: Chanel

If you're the type who wears sneakers more than any other shoe, why not indulge in the most decadent chunky sneaker? This Chanel pair's patchwork cleverly nods to the houses's signature tweed.

Sizes: Upon request

Best Adidas Sneakers

adidas Samba OG Shoes

Samba OG Shoes

Best Adidas Sneakers

adidas Samba OG Shoes

Credit: Adidas

Like Julia Fox and quiet quitting, Adidas Sambas were absolutely everywhere in 2022. Their sudden comeback has a staying power longtime fans can vouch for, starting with those signature three-stripes. Prefer even the most popular sneakers with an IYKYK edge? Hard-to-find pairs from collaborations with Wales Bonner and Gucci reinterpret the same design with updated colors and special materials.

Sizes: 4.5–15

Customer review: "Comfortable shoe. Love how simple the Samba OG Shoe design is. Don't want anything flashy but these look great."

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Best Colorblock Sneakers

Onitsuka Tiger New York Sneakers

New York Sneakers

Best Colorblock Sneakers

Onitsuka Tiger New York Sneakers

Credit: Shopbop

Tastemakers like Dorsey’s Meg Strachan own Onitsuka’s sneakers in multiples. You’ll follow her lead after your first outfit wearing them, thanks to their durable tread and inventive striped design.

Sizes: 4–9.5

Best Knit Sneakers

Chloé Nama Mixed Media Platform Sneakers

Nama Mixed Media Platform Sneakers

Best Knit Sneakers

Chloé Nama Mixed Media Platform Sneakers

Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue

You'll feel like you're walking on air in these tall Chloé sneakers. But the uppers are the real draw: They riff on the brand's best knitwear with intricate contrast stitching in ten different combinations.

Sizes: 5–12

Best New Balance Sneakers

New Balance MR530

MR530

Best New Balance Sneakers

New Balance MR530

Credit: New Balance

Lee of StockX says the New Balance 530 silhouette, first released in 1992, is a perfect example of footwear's obsession with all things retro right now. This is one of the few color combos where several sizes are still available, but if you want to follow in the most avid shoppers' footsteps, "We’ve seen the classic white and navy colorway do particularly well—it’s one of the top three best-selling New Balance sneakers on StockX right now," Lee tells us.

Sizes: 6–15.5

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Best Logo Sneakers

Loewe Flow Logo-Appliquéd Sneakers

Flow Logo-Appliquéd Sneakers

Best Logo Sneakers

Loewe Flow Logo-Appliquéd Sneakers

Now 40% Off

Credit: Net-a-Porter

At a time when brands are backing away from logos in favor of "quiet luxury," these sneakers caught my eye because of their logo. Loewe's cursive L is so artfully applied to this satin-suede shoe, it hardly looks like a loud brand signifier.

Sizes: IT35–IT41

Best Statement Sneakers

Puma x JUNE AMBROSE Keeping Score Prevail Women's Sneakers

x JUNE AMBROSE Keeping Score Prevail Women's Sneakers

Best Statement Sneakers

Puma x JUNE AMBROSE Keeping Score Prevail Women's Sneakers

Credit: Puma

Creative director and costume designer June Ambrose is doing some of her most exciting work at Puma, including releasing these sneakers as part of her latest "Keeping Score" collection. The line turns athletic staples into power dressing moments—and you'll walk a little taller every time you slip on this colorful pair.

Sizes: 5.5–11

Best Directional Sneakers

Simone Rocha Beaded Criss-Cross Strap Trek Ballerina Sneakers

Beaded Criss-Cross Strap Trek Ballerina Sneakers

Best Directional Sneakers

Simone Rocha Beaded Criss-Cross Strap Trek Ballerina Sneakers

Credit: Farfetch

A few brands have tried to imitate Simone Rocha’s distinctive sneakers, but they can’t compete with the original. The mega platform sole, pointe-shoe inspired straps, and curved arches bring more drama than Swan Lake’s second act; they’re ballet-adjacent, but they predate any talk of “balletcore.”

Sizes: 36IT–41IT

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Best Sneakers Under $100

Tretorn Rawlins 2.0 Sneakers

Rawlins 2.0 Sneakers

Best Sneakers Under $100

Tretorn Rawlins 2.0 Sneakers

Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue

Tretorn’s sneakers have lasted me miles (and miles) of walks around my city and the ones I’ve visited for work. The textured soles are also a lifesaver on rainy days when grippy shoes are a must. They’re a little country club tennis with a pleated skirt and a slouchy sweater; a little ‘90s retro revival with a single-pleat pant and a button-down.

Sizes: 6–11

Best Chunky Sneakers

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Sneakers

 Clifton 8 Sneakers

Best Chunky Sneakers

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Sneakers

Now 21% Off

Credit: Amazon

Hoka makes some of the best running shoes with extra cushioning and support, as anyone who's trained for a 5k knows. The Clifton, one of its best-rated sneakers, is also your most comfortable in to the chunky sneaker trend for times when you're not training. You can choose from a wide range of bright color combinations and more subdued neutrals; personally, I spend all summer in a pair of white Hokas with a revolving rack of flowy dresses.

Sizes: 6–11

Customer review: "Worth the money. Fit is better than any other workout shoe. Ultimate shoe comfort. If on the fence go for it."

Best Running Sneakers

On Cloudgo Running Shoe

Cloudgo Running Shoe

Best Running Sneakers

On Cloudgo Running Shoe

Credit: Nordstrom

The name can’t adequately prepare you for the bounce and lightweight feel of these On Running sneakers. They’re cushioned to a degree athletes of all levels can appreciate. With a fit this easygoing, you’ll be tempted to wear them beyond the gym or the track often.

Sizes: 5–11

Customer review: "I always buy the same rotation of running shoes and wanted to try something different. This sneaker is light, fluffy and feels great running outside or on the treadmill. It does run a tad on the small side - but I stick with my usual 8.5 and it's comfortable. Would consider sizing up depending on how you like a sneaker to fit. Will buy again!!"

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Best Slip-On Sneakers

MM6 Maison Margiela Green Platform Slip-On Sneakers

Green Platform Slip-On Sneakers

Best Slip-On Sneakers

MM6 Maison Margiela Green Platform Slip-On Sneakers

Credit: SSENSE

Slip into something more comfortable with this chunky sneaker. Slide-on styles are the most casual of any already laid-back footwear category, but MM6’s possess extra attitude to match their sky-high platform.

Sizes: IT35–IT41

Best Golden Goose Sneakers

Golden Goose Super-Star Glitter Low Top Sneaker

Super-Star Glitter Low Top Sneaker

Best Golden Goose Sneakers

Golden Goose Super-Star Glitter Low Top Sneaker

Credit: Nordstrom

A little distressed, a little sparkly: These sneakers are the best of two very different aesthetics. They also have the slightest platform, so your baggy jeans and oversized trousers gently skim the ground.

Sizes: 5–10

Customer review: "I think the deciding factor is they have a hidden wedge so they add an inch. Comfortable, well-made and add a little interest to an outfit. "

Best Retro Nikes

Nike Nike Dunk Low Retro White Black Panda (2021) (W)

Nike Dunk Low Retro White Black Panda (2021) (W)

Best Retro Nikes

Nike Nike Dunk Low Retro White Black Panda (2021) (W)

"Nike Dunks continue to rank among the best-selling sneakers on StockX," Lee says. "This style has become one of the most recognizable sneakers, and it has really cemented itself as a wardrobe staple for Gen Z and millennial consumers."

It's not fading away anytime soon, Lee adds. "With a wide range of women’s exclusive colorways released over the last year and more on the way, this sneaker will remain a top pick in 2023."

Sizes: 5–12

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Best Re-Issued Luxury Sneaker

Prada Prada America's Cup sneakers

Prada America's Cup sneakers

Best Re-Issued Luxury Sneaker

Prada Prada America's Cup sneakers

Credit: Prada

Pay homage to one of sporting's most iconic races with an equally notable pair of sneakers. Prada first combined luxury and performance footwear in 1999 with its inaugural America's Cup sneaker; nearly 30 years later, it's re-issuing the sailing world's most covetable sneaker with the same materials (leather and breathable mesh) plus a commemorative tag highlighting the original collection.

Sizes: 5–11

Best Minimalist Sneakers

Common Projects Original Achilles Sneaker

Original Achilles Sneaker

Best Minimalist Sneakers

Common Projects Original Achilles Sneaker

Now 30% Off

Credit: Nordstrom

Simple leather sneakers are eternal. This no-nonsense pair by Common Projects is the leader of the pack, with creamy leather and a supportive sole. Reviewers on several sites say they own multiple pairs in different colors—they're that good.

Sizes: 5–12

Customer review: "This is my 6th pair of Common Projects. Couldn’t pass up this color. I bought my first pair from Net-A-Porter 10 years ago. They fit like a glove, the craftsmanship is impeccable. These are a true investment and will never go out of style. Chic, comfortable from day one, and will last a lifetime. A must have in anyones closet."

Best Printed Sneakers

Gucci Screener GG Sneaker

Screener GG Sneaker

Best Printed Sneakers

Gucci Screener GG Sneaker

Credit: Gucci

Sneakers wallpapered in an envy-inducing motif? Say less. This Gucci pair may look casual relative to a shiny Jackie bag or an off-the-runway dress, but the craftsmanship is more than exceptional.

Sizes: 4–12

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Best Sustainable Sneakers

Veja Campo Sneakers

Campo Sneakers

Best Sustainable Sneakers

Veja Campo Sneakers

Credit: Shopbop

The team behind Veja's sneakers put years of research and testing into creating leather sneakers with a lower environmental impact. They're not just a thoughtfully produced shoe; the design is also versatile enough to wear daily (which I'm known to do).

Sizes: EU35–EU43

Customer review: "These are comfy and the mint logo is perfect for spring and summer! The contrasting sole is a nice color and easy to clean."

Best Celebrity-Approved Sneakers

Vans Old Skool Shoe

Old Skool Shoe

Best Celebrity-Approved Sneakers

Vans Old Skool Shoe

Credit: Vans

From Rihanna to Gigi Hadid, celebrities love these understated skate shoes for leisurely walks and errand runs. They're an oldie but a goodie: Vans has had them in circulation since 1977. In the now, you can find them in 24 colors with an option to customize.

Sizes: 5–17.5

Customer review: "I've had a pair of these for ~8 years. They are by far the most durable pair of shoes I have ever owned. My pair is ready for retirement and I will definitely be ordering another any day! I absolutely love these shoes. They're simple, durable and I always feel like a bad-*** wearing them."

Lettermark

Halie LeSavage is the fashion commerce editor at Harper's BAZAAR. Her style reporting covers everything from reviewing the best designer products to profiling emerging brands and designers. Previously, she was the founding retail writer at Morning Brew and a fashion associate at Glamour.

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