10 Best Classic Sneakers (Review) In 2022

We’re certainly kicking things off with a classic. The Puma Suede was initially released back in 1968 and has certainly stood the test of time. These quality black sneakers for men feature that legendary and instantly recognizable silhouette, being both comfortable as well as stylish and rumored to have sold a staggering 2 million pairs in its first year of launch alone. With cultural significance having an affinity not just with the works of basketball but all b-boy fashion and hip-hop culture, it’s a real go-to staple shoe.

It’s casual yet still looks stylish, crisp and clean with classic lines. These days it’s available in a wide choice of color combos, but they all still play homage to that original, simple design. What you’re getting is a suede sneaker with a Formstrip overlay, a lace-up vamp, and comfortable padded foam collar and tongue. It certainly ranks right up there as being one of the most respected and iconic classic sneakers of our times. Make sure you also check out our guide to the best dress sneakers for men.

The sign of an exceptional classic sneaker is when it can be recognized from a mile away yet it’s still subtle and stylish. That’s precisely what you are getting with this Adidas Samba shoe which just like the Gazelle, is one of their most accessible to wear and fashionable designs. It’s easy to see why as it’s versatile, comes in a wide range of colors so that you can match with your wardrobe and your own unique style and super comfortable too.

It’s designed in a classic shape from 100% leather and is a perfect example of a soccer shoe, made all the more appealing with the three-stripe Adidas branding. Originally it was designed to cater for frozen football pitches, but today it’s a much-loved shoe more likely to be seen on the feet of football fans on the terraces. It’s lightweight and durable with a low profile that will never go out of fashion. With a rubber outsole, whether you are playing, performing or just hanging out, you have all the control you could require. If you like sport shoes,check out our guide to the best basketball sneakers.

The Jazz from Saucony is a retro-inspired looking running shoe that might have a firm nod to nostalgic days gone by but is thoroughly modern in its construction. Made from stylish suede and nylon, it performs well and looks sharp.

The Saucony Jazz is designed with a contoured and comfortably supportive EVA midsole to support you with every step. It’s budget friendly and breathable so your feet will feel relaxed and at ease wearing these sneakers. There are literally dozens of different color options available, all featuring that same stylish mix of mesh, suede, and nylon. It’s a classic sneaker that gets plenty of five-star feedback with most customers remarking just how supremely comfortable and classically stylish they are. With such a competitive price point, we wouldn’t blame you for picking up a couple of pairs in your favorite colors. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best trail running shoes for men.

When it comes to classic sneakers, the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star has to be up there as one of the all-time legendary and instantly recognizable sneakers of our time. It’s simple yet stylish, and the clean and unisex combination of that white plimsole style design with contrast red and navy blue stripe detailing is a winner all round. It’s a timeless, dare we be so bold as to say, iconic sneaker that really does personify urban cool.

The Chuck Taylor is one of their best-loved models, lightweight and breathable, classically constructed from a canvas upper with a durable rubber sole and unapologetically Converse. It’s comfortable, stylish, still looks contemporary and is a fashion staple. It’s virtually unchanged since its original release back in 1916 which really does tell you something about its classic pedigree. This is one sneaker that still can make a fashion statement. While it’s undergone plenty of iterations and transformations since it’s original launch it remains an off duty favorite of celebs, rockers, skateboarders and classic sneaker enthusiasts the world over. If you love minimal looking shoes, check out our guide to the best white sneakers for men.

Is there really anything more classically iconic or culturally representative than the Nike Air Force 1? It was designed by Bruce Kilgore in 1982 and was the first basketball style sneaker to future Nike’s revolutionary Air technology. It was also groundbreaking design-wise in its use of durable cup soles. Not only is this a classic in its own right, but it also paved the way for many imitations to follow and inspired a whole genre of essential yet stylish athletic shoes.

35 years on and the Air Force 1 has retained its popularity and gone on to have plenty of high profile collaborations. Now available in a wide range of colorways with clashing or complimenting swoosh detailing, there is something very cool and timeless about the all-white combination. With a thick rubber sole embossed with the Air logo on the outer side and a low top, padded ankle section, it’s not just stylish, it’s comfortable too. Winning combinations in our book. For more sporty footwear, check out our guide to the best crossfit shoes.

When it comes to simple but classic sneakers that are also highly functional, New Balance has it covered and with their Men’s 574 Classic Sneaker. What you’re getting is performance running shoe that won’t break the bank or your feet. They’re made from 100% leather with breathable mesh and come in a wide range of color options. The overall design aesthetic is laid back and casually retro.

This running model from their extensive collection performs every bit as good as it looks. There’s encap midsole technology which delivers a supportive ride with every stride while the toe box is nice and roomy. The heel is nicely supportive too for all day long comfort and support. We wouldn’t go as far as to say that the New Balance 574 is groundbreaking or iconic, but it’s certainly a classic that will stand the test of time. If you like training, check out our guide to the best cross training shoes.

It’s not essential that you own a skateboard or that you listen to punk rock to appreciate a pair of Vans, especially when they look like these Era Skate classic low top sneakers.  With their durable stitching and waffle soles, these are a durable, stylish and comfortable pair of classic sneakers. They’re not quite as nostalgic as some of their other designs, but they’re effortlessly casual, laid back, old school style unisex sneakers.

Featuring Van’s signature waffle bottom and a textured sole that delivers plenty of traction and reliable support, inside the sneakers are cushioned and comfortable in an all canvas original construction. There are tonnes of color options to choose from, so there’s bound to be one that suits your own street style. For a laid back and casual vibe with an uncomplicated yet uncompromising style, the Era Van is an excellent sneaker choice. Be sure to also check out our list of the best soccer cleats for more great items like this. 

Our next best classic style sneaker comes from Reebok, and we’ve hand-picked their Royal modern which is not only timeless to look at but superlatively comfortable. The budget-friendly price in no way reflects the level of luxury and comfort that has gone into constructing this durable and sophisticated trainer.

The low cut design is easy to wear, and the carbon rubber heel delivers plenty of arch support as well as shock absorption. Reebok has managed to combine stylish good looks, with comfortable support as well as long-lasting durability in this men’s Royal sneaker. You’ll definitely get your money’s worth from these lace-up design athletic shoes with their forefoot flex grooves. So much so that it’s not uncommon for a pair of Reebok Classics to last you for at least five years. Our handy guide to the best hiking shoes features more great products like this. 

For street style cool that can’t be beaten, the Adidas Original Men’s Superstar is somewhat of a show stopper. It’s sophisticated yet simple, fresh and comfortable to wear with a soft interior for maximum comfort and a supportive heel that cradles your foot. Featuring the famous and yes, iconic three stripe design, this full-grain leather sneaker from Adidas is still based on that original 70’s basketball style. Why bother changing something that’s so well loved?

The bottom of these Adidas Superstars is every bit as well-respected as the uppers. Flip the trainers over, and you’ll notice the herringbone pattern outsole which delivers plenty of traction support as well as a stable and secure ride. Perhaps our favorite finishing touch though and what you could say is the piece de resistance, is the gold colored Adidas logo resplendent on the tongue. It’s like ordering your sneakers with an extra side of swagger. There are loads of color combos to go for, but we’re still a little bit in love with the classic white with black stripes. As best classic men’s sneakers go, the superstar is quite frankly, a legend. Love this product? Check out our review of the best stability running shoes for our top picks. 

Synonymous with the skateboarding world, the Vans Sk8-Hi is somewhat of a mainstay these days and has made that leap across from being an irreverent shoe found on the shoes of punks and skater boys to a classic model which has delivered a whole new aesthetic to the genre. While it does very much still remain a popular choice with skateboarders and BMX bandits across the recreation parks the world over, the Vans Sk8-hi is also loved by self-professed sneakerheads too!

It features a classic design silhouette and was pretty revolutionary when it launched back in 1978. With added ankle protection it was a defining style and set the whole vibe for high-top skate shoes to follow. It’s simple and reassuringly old school and some 50 years on from its original debut, breaths fresh life into a classic and culturally symbolic sneaker. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best walking shoes.