The best trainers for women aren’t always the most glamorous purchase, but for many, they’re a non-negotiable wardrobe essential. You may swear by heels or have a rotating collection of loafers and ballet flats, but the day will come when you’ll want to reach for a more comfortable alternative. The best trainers for women are those that are simple enough to go with everything, whether you prefer an affordable classic, like Chuck Taylor All Stars, or live for a luxury designer pair from the likes of The Row, Loewe or Gucci.
If you’re looking for somewhere to start, you can never go wrong with iconic sneaker brands like Nike, Adidas, or Vans. Find the style that you prefer, whether that’s sporty, chunky, or slim, then decide on the colourway and material. Minimal white sneakers tend to get the most wear since they complement just about anything, but depending on your preferred colour palette, you might love a shoe that mixes blacks, browns, greys or bright shades.
There’s a time and a place for flashy or seasonal trending sneakers, but a pair of trainers with staying power that you can confidently throw on with any outfit is essential. From coveted designer iterations to forever classics, take your pick from the below sneakers for women that’ll never go out of style.
Vogue’s guide to the best women’s trainers:
Timeless leather
A leather sneaker is always a trusty option. The material gets better with age, plus it offers a snug and secure fit. Some pairs will require breaking in, but others – like New Balance’s chunky 550s – are straight-out-of-the-box comfy. Leather styles run the gamut in terms of price; for an affordable pick, turn to Veja – the sustainably-minded French sneaker brand has been cosigned multiple celebrities – or consider Gucci if you’re seeking an investment.
Put it in retro
Designers have been revisiting vintage-inspired sneakers for a while now; you’ll recognise the narrow silhouette which tapers in the foot for an elongated look. We love the ones from Loewe and The Row to pair with flowy trousers and dresses for casual yet cool mix. Anything from Adidas in a vintage colourway will add a stylish twist to any outfit – the Handball Spezial is this year’s must-have.
You can’t go wrong adding a crisp white trainer into your lineup; it’s the easiest sneaker to style. Alexander McQueen’s platform sneaker is a bestseller if you’re looking for designer, while Tory Burch and Adidas deliver leather styles that ring under £200. For a designer pick, turn to Toteme or Alaïa – the latter of which has remixed Superga’s canvas shoe with intricate lace detailing.
The “gorpcore” pick
The street-style set loves a practical, supremely comfy sneaker for everyday wear. New Balance, Asics, and Salomon tend to be the most popular in this category, thanks to accessible price-points and a near-constant stream of new arrivals in limited edition colourways.
The old-school canvas
Canvas shoes are the OG tennis sneaker (with plimsolls being their lighter-weight counterparts for gym classes), but today, you’ll find the breathable fabric incorporated in a variety of styles. Tried-and-true favourites include Vans’s low-tops and Converse’s high-tops. Quiet luxury lovers will also love The Row’s no-frills takes.
Slip on and go
There’s no denying the appeal of slip-on shoes. You literally slide your foot in and voilà – you’re set. Vans will always be Vans, but for a more luxe take on the slip of your teenage years, turn to Bottega Veneta and The Row for effortlessly minimalist designs.
