White sneakers are a wardrobe staple that can bring an ‘effortless’ vibe to any outfit. Crisp whites and chic silhouettes are key when it comes to picking the best sneakers, so we’ve included plenty of different styles—including the high-profile Nike Air Force 1s, the low-profile Onitsuka Tiger Serranos, and even the chunky ITNO Hydros.
Whether they’re for your capsule wardrobe, casual office days, athleisure looks, or even to pair with a sundress, here are our top 11 picks for the best white sneakers you can wear almost anywhere.
Urban List's Top Picks
- Best Overall, New Balance BB80
- Best Classic, Nike Air Force 1 Next Nature and Adidas Originals Stan Smith Shoes
- Best For Workouts, Hoka Bondi 8
- Best Sustainable, Veja Esplar
- Best Low Profile, Onitsuka Tiger Serrano CL
- Best Sporty, New Balance 530
- Best For Weekend Wear, Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Hi
- Best Luxury, Dries Van Noten White Leather Sneakers
- Best Chunky, ITNO Hydro Sneaker
- Best Affordable, Vans Authentic
Best Overall New Balance BB80
A tennis-style court shoe is a natural go-to when thinking about white sneakers—and New Balance's BB80, which was inspired by the original BB680 worn by basketball players, is one of the hottest sneaker silhouettes around right now. We love the exaggerated proportions, sturdy midsole, and curved layers. A modern classic.
Best Classic Nike Air Force 1 Next Nature
If you're a white sneaker fan, you've probably had a pair of bright white AF1's somewhere in your sneaker collection at some point. We'll forgive you for thinking this fresh release from Nike is pretty much the same too—but take a closer look. These B Ball originals are now made from at least 20% recycled materials by weight, putting a fresh and sustainable spin on an old favourite. Stitched overlays evoke a signature style that features animal-free materials on the upper and recycled laces and insole.
Best Classic Adidas Originals Stan Smith Shoes
True to its original design, the classic silhouette of Stan Smith's has endured sneaker style for over four decades. This pair features a fresh redesign, with a vegan upper and an outsole made from rubber waste as part of adidas' commitment to use only recycled polyester by 2024.
BEST AFFORDABLE Vans Authentic
Vans is the most iconic skate shoe brand around, with its sturdy rubber soles and breathable canvas material. One thing that made them particularly popular among skaters was their affordability. Even now, a pair of Vans Authentics will set you back around $100 (or less if you can find a pair on sale), making them a stylish white sneaker perfect for any budget.
Best For Workouts Hoka Bondi 8
These ultra-cushioned and super comfortable sneakers will quickly become the hardest working shoe in your line up. Perfect for wearing with everything from activewear to dresses, these are the only pair of sneakers you’ll need to pack on your next trip.
Best Sustaniable Veja Esplar
Thanks to its simple leather style it’s easy to see why this classic sneaker has become a cult favourite. Comfortable from the get-go (we can vouch there’s no breaking-in period) and featuring the brand's subtle, yet cool 'V' stitching, these sneakers can be worn a multitude of ways.
Best Low Profile Onitsuka Tiger Serrano CL
Onitsuka Tiger's have long been the go-to for a classic white sneaker. Maintaining the effortless style of its namesake predecessor, this this low profile pair has now been revamped for a cleaner look with the entire model made in a single tone of leather.
Best Sporty New Balance 530
If a sporty sneaker is more your style, the New Balance 530 is the perfect middle ground. Easier to style than your typical dad-sneaker, the rounded toe brings a strong retro vibe and the thick rubber sole makes them practical for all-day wear.
Best For Weekend Wear Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Hi
Arguably a classic in their own right, we couldn’t compile a list of the best white sneakers without including a pair of Converse. Our favourites are this high-top pair thanks to the cool, relaxed, and vintage vibe they bring to any outfit.
BEST CHUNKY ITNO Hydro Sneaker
Australian brand ITNO offers a range of chunky, platform shoes, and the Hydro Sneaker is the star of the show. Despite their size, these sneakers are super lightweight and comfortable thanks to their foam footbed.
Best Luxury Dries Van Noten White Leather Sneakers
While they may be an investment, you can’t deny the perfectly crafted design of Dries Van Noten. If you’re looking to splurge on a style that will last the test of time—and ultimately reduce your cost per wear—these Italian-made sneakers are a worthy option.
Image credit: Converse | Website
Editor's note: Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, and if you purchase something through the links in this article, we will earn a commission from those partners. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.