1
Best Classic
Adidas Samba OG Shoes
Credit: Adidas
Adidas has been a household brand in the fashion and sneaker world since "My Adidas" by Run-D.M.C. dropped in 1986, according to Dr. Matthews. The Samba style continues to reign supreme with new iterations and styles launching each year, like the best-selling Sporty & Rich 2023 collab and the leather-free Vegan version.
We've spotted celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence and Katie Holmes sporting this pair. The classic black with white stripes are easy to style with casual wear and dressier outfits too, but this pair is available in a range of other shades.
Tester Notes: "The sneakers match well with pretty much all my everyday basics, like baggy jeans and a white tee. In fact, I love wearing them to the office with trousers to add a bit of casualness. They run low to the ground and peek out perfectly. My only con is that these aren’t great to wear when it's raining; I’ve found myself slipping on slick ground on more than a few occasions." — Jacqueline Saguin, Good Housekeeping Commerce Editor
Sizes: 5–15
2
Best Reebok
Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Walking Shoe
Credit: Reebok
Available in a variety of neutral shades, the Reebok C85 Vintage shoes have become a closet staple for many. The leather upper molds to your feet and has a stylish look, while the terry lining feels soft and plush. The foam midsole provides some cushioning and arch support for comfy walking all day.
Tester notes: "The shoes are comfortable to wear from day one, even without being broken in. And they feel great all day long! The style is versatile and classic, great for everyday wear. I love to pair them with everything from joggers to a skirt." — Amanda Constantine, Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst
Sizes: 1.5–13.5
3
Best Cushioned
Hoka Clifton 9 Running Sneakers
Credit: Hoka
GH fashion experts agreed with Dr. Matthews who said Hoka is one of the largest growing sneaker brands with an extremely loyal following that includes all ages from Baby Boomers through Gen Z. The chunky style is popular for both working out and looking good. These running sneakers offer ample cushioning to keep joints supported on a treadmill and road runs. In our sneaker testing, more testers wanted to test Hoka sneakers than any other brand.
Tester notes: "[They have] incredible cushion yet gave me balanced support. I have a bad right ankle and have always struggled with finding shoes with enough support and cushion at the same time. These are fabulous."
Sizes: 5–12
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4
Best Sustainable
Veja Campo Chromefree Leather
Credit: Veja
Known for the brand's commitment to more sustainable production and materials, Veja sneakers feature sustainable materials like organic cotton laces, recycled polyester lining and some recycled rubber in the outsole. The brand has blown up in popularity for its versatile designs, which come in an array of fashionable colors.
Tester notes: "These shoes are so comfortable and are my go-to for everything from the office to vacation. I still wear my first pair, which have lasted me more than three years. I’ve worn them with dresses, skirts, shorts, pants, jumpsuits and more. They are so versatile that I truly can call them my go-to sneakers. One of my absolute favorite pairs of shoes I own!" — Catharine Malzahn, Women's Lifestyle Group Beauty Assistant
Sizes: 4–12.5
5
Best Trendy
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
Credit: Onitsuka Tiger
Originating in Japan, Onitsuka Tiger has been a trendy sneaker brand for decades. And the metallic silver colorway is on trend in 2024. These sneakers were originally released in 1978 and were "an instant hit with runners and business people alike," according to the brand. Popularized by the movie Kill Bill, the yellow colorway continues to sell out regularly.
The sneakers feature a rugged outsole that goes up over the toes and heel for excellent traction. The brand has currently paused shipping to the USA, so they are only available on resale sites.
Sizes: 4–11
6
Best Retro
New Balance 550s
Credit: New Balance
A favorite of style icons like Hailey Bieber, Taylor Swift and Adele, New Balance 550 sneakers are a versatile everyday shoe with a chunky style that's easy to pair with a variety of outfits. As a bonus, GH fiber scientists and podiatrists agree that New Balance shoes offer great support and stability, so you'll take care of your feet and stay comfy. This style is also available in a range of colors.
Tester notes: "I bought these shoes because of their retro look. They are slimmer than other white sneakers that were popular at the time. They’re really comfortable albeit a bit narrow." — Jacqueline Saguin, Good Housekeeping Commerce Editor
Sizes: 5–11
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7
Best Slip-On
Kizik Athens Hands Free Mens or Womens Sneakers
Credit: Kizik
Easily slip into this pair of Kizik sneakers, thanks to the brand’s signature silicone cage on the back of heel that bounces right back into place when you step in. Testers, including users with mobility concerns, applauded this pair for being impressively easy to put on and take off. We appreciate that this pair is available in a great range of sizing, up to a women's size 16.5.
Tester notes: "The big draw is the way they slip on. I've been wearing them for weeks and I expected the heel to cave in and the slip-on to get harder, but that didn't happen. You really can just jump into them. It's very convenient for when I realize I only have a minute to run to the school and pick up my daughter." — Marisa LaScala, Good Housekeeping Senior Parenting & Relationships Editor
Sizes: 6–16.5 with wide sizing
8
Best for Walking
Brooks Brooks Ghost 15
Credit: Brooks
Walk confidently with Brooks Ghost 15s on your feet. These sneakers are very supportive to help prevent foot pain, even on longer walks. Walkers appreciated the pair's comfortable heel and cushioning so they were easy to wear all day. We liked the breathable knit upper for improved airflow. Brooks recently launched the Ghost 16 model and we cannot wait to put it to the test.
Tester notes: "[They have] so much support and comfort. I didn't even feel like I was running on the pavement while wearing these. Also, the black/gray color scheme is super versatile, so I will definitely be wearing these in the future. The laces were solid too."
Sizes: 5–13 with wide and extra-wide sizing
9
Best Cross Trainer
Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Sneaker
Now 11% Off
Credit: ReebokWhether you opt for the treadmill or the weights, cross-trainers can support you across the gym for all types of workouts. The foam midsole offers enough flexibility when running, but is stable enough for weightlifting too. Plus, the lightweight, breathable knit upper allows ample airflow during sweaty gym sessions.
Tester notes: "The sneakers are on trend and go easily with my outfits, from my workout wear to casual street wear outside of the gym. They are very comfortable, especially for long durations of time, and super light, making them easy to transport too. I am typically a size women's 9 and find that these sneakers run perfectly true to size."
Sizes: 5–15.5
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10
Best White
Nike Air Force 1 '07 Shoes
Credit: Nike
White sneakers go with everything, making them a wardrobe workhorse. Nike Air Force 1's are one of the most popular white sneakers available because of their sporty design that's still versatile to pair with everything from jeans to dresses. It’s especially popular in white, but you can customize the colors for a unique look.
Tester notes: "These are probably the quintessential white sneaker. They are very comfortable and lasted me for many years. I liked that I could pair these sneakers with truly any outfit. I liked my white pair so much that I customized my next pair!" — Jacqueline Saguin, Good Housekeeping Commerce Editor
Sizes: 5–12
11
Best Chunky
Fila Disruptor II Premium Comfortable Sneakers
Embrace the chunky shoe trend with this best-selling pair from Fila. Featuring a thick platform and leather detailing, this pair is easy to style with a variety of outfits. The white color is the most popular, but this style is available in over 30 shades, including bright neons. The leather upper is easy to clean but isn't very breathable.
Tester notes: "Its chunky heel added a streetwear element to my outfits, which meant I could make sundresses and skirts more casual. I had no issues with comfort and support." — Jacqueline Saguin, Good Housekeeping Commerce Editor.
Sizes: 5–11.5
12
Best High Top
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
Credit: Converse
Worn across age groups, Converse All Star high-top sneakers continue to be one of the most popular sneakers available. The casual, skater-style shoe is ideal for everyday wear and also among weightlifters as a flat, stable shoe. Available as a high or low top, these sneakers are sold in tons of colors with custom options for personalized patterns and designs.
Tester notes: "My Converse from middle school are still on-trend and are in surprisingly good shape. I like the flat base that makes this pair comfy to wear when lifting weights too. I also have the platform version of these sneakers, which offer a bit of added height with a trendy look."
Sizes: 5–18 with wide sizing
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13
Best Platform
Superga 2790 Platform Sneakers
Credit: Superga
For a clean, classic look, these Superga sneakers have a thick platform for added height and a dressier look. We love styling these with everything from babydoll dresses to wide-leg suit pants. The versatile design makes these dressy enough to wear to work and stylish enough to wear out and about. One GH analyst said her pair has stayed in pristine condition for many years as long as she cleans the white canvas material regularly.
Tester notes: "I love how long and lean my legs look when wearing these platform sneakers. I live in this pair all summer! They aren't too heavy like other platform shoes I own."
Sizes: 5–11
14
Best Nike
Nike Women's Dunk High Shoes
Credit: Nike
Nike sneakers, most famously the Jordan, are constantly on-trend and being released in new shades and celebrity collaborations. The Dunk line, especially the low style, has become increasingly popular recently, selling extraordinarily well on resale sites. You can customize the Dunk High version too.
Tester notes: "Even though I've never played basketball, these sneakers are one of my favorite pairs. They are comfortable to wear with a roomy toe box that doesn't pinch. I did find them to run a bit small."
Sizes: 5–12
15
Best for Travel
Allbirds Women's Tree Runners
Credit: Allbirds
A consistent favorite among GH travel pros, these Allbirds sneakers are machine washable (with the insoles removed) for easy cleaning, post-vacation. The breathable knit upper is made with Lyocell, which is known for its moisture-wicking properties, making them ideal when walking for hours.
Tester notes: "I love how these shoes look good with everything and are super comfortable to wear all day long, even with lots of walking. I love the fit, and I especially love that I don't have to wear socks with them." — Lexie Sachs, Good Housekeeping Executive Director Strategy and Operations.
Sizes: 5–11 (no half-sizing)
RELATED: Allbirds Review: We Tested Almost Every Style for Comfort and Support
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16
Best Lightweight
On Running Cloud 5
Credit: On Running
On Running is a favorite among athletes for its chic look, excellent performance and because they feel great on your feet mile after mile. The brand's CloudTec foam cushioning is designed for soft landings while running. Available in 20+ colors and featuring a speed lacing system for easy on and off, this pick is a great commuting shoe. Recently, the brand did a collaboration with luxury brand Loewe.
Tester notes: "I like that they're super lightweight and minimalist! I feel like they're less bulky than some other sneakers I own so I can get away with wearing them with jeans as much as I can with leggings. They're fairly comfortable for all-day use." — Olivia Lipski, Good Housekeeping Media & Tech Reviews Analyst
Sizes: 5–11
17
Best Athletic
ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 26 Running Shoe
Credit: ASICS
After our extensive testing, ASICS sneakers impressed both podiatrists and testers alike, earning high marks for comfort and support. We've noticed an increase in trendsetters opting for ASICS sneakers, most notably pairs from the collaboration with Cecille Bahnsen. This style features the brand's signature gel cushioning system for support throughout the foot during exercise.
Tester notes: "I love the cushioning and look of these sneakers! They are so comfortable to walk in. They’re super easy to slip on and feel secure."
Sizes: 5–12 with wide sizing
18
Best New Balance
New Balance Women's FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker
Now 38% Off
Credit: New Balance We've tested dozens of sneakers, and this affordable pair from New Balance continues to dominate in performance over other styles. With a lightweight design, the comfy knit upper can stretch to accommodate wider feet and bunions. Plus, this pair has over 70,000 (!!!) Amazon reviews.
Tester notes: "I liked that they were lightweight and had a good amount of cushioning. They were easy to take on and off and I liked the way they looked."
Sizes: 5–11 with wide sizing
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19
Best Hiking
Salomon X ULTRA 4 Women's Hiking Shoes
Now 25% Off
Credit: SalomonBig, chunky sneakers are a popular trend right now, especially ones with rugged outsoles. Hiking shoes check every box. This style from Salomon is equally popular among trendsetters and hikers. The stretchy, quick lacing system allows you to easily slip this pair on when heading out the door. For more colorful options, we also recommend the Xt-6 style.
Tester notes: "This pair has a great cushioned interior. It's in between a hiking shoe and a trail runner with good flexibility, stability and traction. I especially like its sleek look." — Grace Wu, Good Housekeeping Textiles Reviews Analyst
Sizes: 5–11
20
Best Colorful
Chloé Nama Platform Sneaker
Credit: Chloe
These Chloé sneakers have chic stitching with a comfy platform for extra height. While most sneakers are only available in neutrals, we love that this pick has nine bold color options. We also appreciate that this style uses some recycled content for a lower environmental impact.
Sizes: 5–12 (no half sizing)
Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
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