7 Best Sneakers in 2022

December 27, 2022

7 Best Sneakers in 2022

Finding the best sneaker that would fit your style and budget can be downright grueling considering the thousands of choices. But don’t worry. We have reviewed over 100 stylish sneakers to narrow down your options.

Whether you’re looking for an iconic silhouette, a sleek tennis sneaker, or a chunky dad shoe, we’ve got our top picks in five different categories to let you choose.

And if you’d like to know how to be smart about mixing comfort and style in your next sneaker, scroll down to the guide below.

Best sneakers overall

Vans Old Skool

Vans Old Skool

CoreScore

93
Superb!
4.6 / 5 from 131,985 users
  • Top 10% in sneakers
  • Top 15% in Vans sneakers
  • Top 1% most popular sneakers

Pros

  • A classic silhouette deserving of any wardrobe
  • Easy to wear in
  • Super comfortable
  • Fits true to size
  • Incredibly breathable thanks to the all-canvas upper
  • Clean aesthetics
  • Very durable outsole
  • Brakes well on the board

Cons

  • Not very durable in comparison to other modern skate shoes
  • Collect stains easily

Verdict

The Adidas Stan Smith is a legendary sneaker with a claim to fame as the original white tennis shoe for the masses. Culture has respected that for the last 50 years the Stan Smith is still as relevant today as it was when the man was winning trophies. It’s fair to say that with its robust design and sleek looks, it’s probably going to last another 50.

Best classic/icon sneakers

Air Jordan 1 Mid

Air Jordan 1 Mid

CoreScore

94
Superb!
4.7 / 5 from 37,625 users
  • Top 7% in sneakers
  • Top 14% in Jordan sneakers
  • Top 1% most popular sneakers

Pros

  • All-day comfort
  • Cushy sole
  • Hip and cool style
  • Adaptable flair
  • Wide selection of colorways
  • Long-lasting
  • Low-maintenance
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Run-of-the-mill leather
  • Creases easily

Verdict

The Air Jordan 1 Mid is a tried-and-true kick-ass not only in style, but also in function. Choosing this as our top sneaker is one of the easiest decisions we’ve made. 

But before anything, its looks are to die for! It’s classy, hip, and clean, it sure goes with everything and anything. And if you want to turn some heads, this sneaker is a certified stunner.  

Even better, it also screams comfort. It just gives the feet all-day pampering. We swear we don’t want to take it off. 

Because it’s a hybrid between the High and Low versions, it delivers what both provide. This classic kick is not only king in the arena of comfort. It’s also supreme in giving the ankles support and mobility. Not once have we felt any rollover sensation, nor has it constricted our motions. 

Even better, this kick is made to last. And to that, we can attest. After some serious pounding on the pavement, miles of walk, and just overall a series of wear testing, the Air Jordan 1 Mid has stunned us. 

The midsole is not bottoming out, the upper looks pristine, and the outsole is almost unscratched. Ultimately, it’s a sneaker that’s a bang for the buck, and it sure has major style going on.


Best tennis sneakers

Adidas Stan Smith

Adidas Stan Smith

CoreScore

93
Superb!
4.6 / 5 from 347,318 users
  • Top 11% in sneakers
  • Top 20% in Adidas sneakers
  • Top 1% most popular sneakers

Pros

  • Classic silhouette
  • Numerous colorways and collaborations
  • Easy to style
  • Durable
  • Weatherproof

Cons

  • Runs large
  • Lack of support
  • Takes some time to wear in

Verdict

The hype around the Adidas Stan Smith is just insane, we had to see for ourselves why. And some miles later, here we are bowing down to this beauty. 

It’s got a crazy following, and we now understand why. Apart from its very affordable price, it’s almost the exact same copy of the original shoe that was released in the ‘70s. Having it on our feet feels like a look back in history. 

And like a tennis shoe, it’s extremely light. There’s really NONE of that dragging sensation. We even completely forgot we had something on.

Stepping things up, this sneaker is a solid 10/10 in the comfort department. The midsole is plush, and the upper is breathable – it doesn’t get better than this! 

It’s a rockstar in keeping the feet nice and cozy, our feet have never felt tired in it. 

When it comes to style, the shoe’s already good-looking as it is. But what really got us fired up is the variation in colorways. There’s just so much to choose from, it’s hard not to love the Stan Smith. 

And when it comes to cleaning? Piece of cake! We assure you, this won’t give you a headache. 

Overall, the Stan Smith is a blend of retro and classy. It’s a do-it-all that will find its way into your closet, regardless of your style.


Best dad sneakers

Nike Air Monarch IV

Nike Air Monarch IV

CoreScore

89
Great!
4.5 / 5 from 151,032 users
  • Top 4% most popular sneakers

Pros

  • Comfy
  • Versatile support
  • Reasonably priced
  • Consistent sizing
  • Stylish
  • Springy
  • Breathable

Cons

  • Squeaks
  • Frail outsole

Verdict

The Nike Air Monarch IV is not only a showstopper in the fashion scene, it’s also a star in the performance department. And we couldn’t disagree. 

This sneaker has truly stolen our hearts, and it sure has caught the attention of some lookers too. But there’s more than what meets the eye, of course. 

Apart from its obvious modus operandi on grabbing attention, it also keeps the feet nice and cushy. It’s hard to move on from its bounce and plushness, really. We can wear it for extended periods without complaints. 

We don’t just use this dad shoe to sport a bold ensemble, we also put it on to really up our gym sessions. Yes, this shoe is as versatile as it can get. 

Whether it’s running, jogging, or walking, this sneaker swallows everything we throw at it. 

And it’s truly heaven-sent for us with wide feet as it comes in a variety of width options. And the best thing about it is that it’s true to size. Zero issues with slips or excessive in-shoe movements. It’s nice and snug, it keeps the feet locked in place. 

At such a budget-friendly price, it’s a no-brainer that the Nike Monarch 4 wins at giving the best value for money. It does so many things for so little price. 


Best high-top sneakers

Vans SK8-Hi

Vans SK8-Hi

CoreScore

93
Superb!
4.6 / 5 from 44,682 users
  • Top 13% in sneakers
  • Top 23% in Vans sneakers

Pros

  • Classic silhouette that works with any wardrobe
  • Fits true to size
  • Breathable
  • Durable
  • Comfortable when broken in
  • Padded collar for ankle support
  • An easy silhouette even for a hi-top

Cons

  • Takes time to put on
  • Can take time to wear in
  • Not good in wet weather

Verdict

The Vans Sk8-Hi is a vintage we’d want to put on during cold seasons. Even more, it gives the feet all the support they could dream of. 

Of course, it’s an automatic no-no during warm temperatures. So, we’ve sported and tested it in rather cold conditions, and this high-top sneaker has been nothing short of stellar. It’s warm and cozy, it’s home for the feet.

The quality of the materials it uses – a mix of canvas and suede – is first-rate. They’re not only comfortable, they’re also very sturdy, and we are confident that they will last a long time. 

We’ve slipped into tens and hundreds of sneakers, but this is among the most lightweight shoes we’ve ever put on. No cap, it’s airy and it doesn’t load up on the feet.

And even though it’s a lifestyle shoe, its grip impressed us so much, we can’t look past it! On both dry and wet surfaces, it bites into the ground, keeping our steps surefooted and stable. 

And of course, it won’t be part of this list without its sheer focus on style. And on this matter, it’s a hats off to Vans. 

It doesn’t only appeal to a certain group of fashionistas, but it certainly covers different sneaker fans with different styles. 

From skaters looking for a budget-friendly option to someone who’s searching for a casual-wear kick that’s going to keep the feet warm, or even those who are after classic-looking high-tops, the Van Sk8-Hi is a surefire killer. 


Best value sneakers

Vans Slip-On

Vans Slip-On

CoreScore

92
Great!
4.6 / 5 from 138,405 users
  • Top 15% in sneakers
  • Top 30% in Vans sneakers
  • Top 1% most popular sneakers

Pros

  • Extremely comfortable
  • Easy on and off
  • Timeless style
  • Clean and versatile
  • Durable
  • Compliment magnet
  • Time-tested quality
  • Pocket-friendly range

Cons

  • Poor ventilation
  • Stiff at first

Verdict

It’s affordable, and it’s everything we can ask for. The Vans Slip-On is the epitome of versatility. 

First off, it’s nuts when it comes to comfort. It’s got a well-padded midsole that has kept our feet feeling fresh and strain-free, even after long hours of standing and walking. It doesn’t even require a break-in period. 

And it’s THE easiest sneaker to put on and off. No effort is needed, you can just slip your feet in and out with no sweat. 

Like we said, this Vans shoe is a verified do-it-all. It’s so simple yet so classy and stylish, it can go with anything. 

Throw in a pair of hoodie and jeans, and this shoe can do the trick. And if you want a vintage-inspired ensemble, put on a pair of chinos and band tees, and you’re good to go. 

You can even go for a dapper or a smart-casual look in this bad boy. No cap, even with its laidback design, it’s a piece that’s going to make your outfit a standout. 

And the good news is that it comes in a variety of colorways too. 

For its price, we are awestruck by its durability. After numerous wear tests, it’s still not breaking down. 

Truly, it’s a great-value sneaker that’s got the makings of the more expensive shoes on the market. And if you want one shoe for everything, the Vans Slip-On can fit the bill. 


Most popular sneakers

Nike Air Max 90

Nike Air Max 90

CoreScore

90
Great!
4.5 / 5 from 30,971 users
  • Top 26% in Nike sneakers
  • Top 30% in running sneakers
  • Top 1% most popular sneakers

Pros

  • Very durable
  • Breathable
  • The stuff of legends and rightly so
  • Huge amounts of colorways
  • Great price for a statement shoe
  • Fits true to size
  • Quality materials
  • Easy to clean
  • Stain resistant

Cons

  • So stiff it asks for adjustment period
  • Normal and wide feet find it too narrow

Verdict

The Air Max 90 is a sneaker with a backstory. Everyone has seen it and most love it. If you grew up between 1990 and 2010 you probably wanted a pair. Each pair feels ready to last another 30 years, with breathability to boot. Regardless, Nike renews these year after year offering more and more options to whet any appetite.
 
 
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