Back in 2015, Adidas Stan Smith sneakers were the next big thing. It seemed as though every celebrity, from David Beckham to Reese Witherspoon sported a pair. Six years on, and the shoes are still going strong. In 2018, Adidas announced a lucrative lifetime contract on the collaboration and last year sold its 100 millionth pair.
The sleek kicks have basically become the quintessential white sneaker, the comfy and stylish kick for everyone to pull off. But they’re not the only cool white shoes on the market. And as summer starts, and a nice pair of breathable, comfy, striking shoes becomes a seasonal must, here are five of the best white retro sneakers for your wardrobe.
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1. Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers
There’s a reason why Adidas’ most iconic shoe is one of the best white retro sneakers on the market right now. Stan Smith sneakers are sleek and simple and can be dressed up or down with sweats, or even chinos for a nicer occasion. And eco-conscious wearers will be happy to know that the shoe now boasts a vegan upper and is made of recycled and upcycled materials with no virgin polyester.
Adidas has been playing around with collaborations on the shoe for a while now. The heel used to only feature the iconic Adidas trefoil symbol, embedded in a green patch. But a number of different colorways and customizations have since come into the fold. They now come in all white, or with flashes of gold along the three stitched lines on the side. In short, whatever color you fancy is probably available as an accent on the kicks.
As for comfort, the modified ’70s design now has extra support on the heel, and a soft leather upper — making it breathable and kind to your feet.
2. Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Sneakers
Nike’s Air Force 1 kicks are among the best white sneakers for a reason. Born in the ’80s, these classic white shoes offer that OG basketball aesthetic while keeping you light on your feet, thanks to the Nike Air cushioning that keeps you comfy all day. The low-cut design adds a casual and streamlined look to any ensemble, whether you’re aiming for streetwear style or a modern athletic-inspired getup.
3. Adidas Samba OG Sneakers
Originally a shoe made for indoor soccer, Adidas’ Sambas have become an instantly recognizable silhouette. They were introduced right before the World Cup in 1950, with the catchy name meant to drum up excitement among South American soccer fans. And after Bob Marley famously started wearing them in the ’70s, they became a staple of daily sneakers. Sambas have always been around, with their slightly chunky design and long tongue complementing most fits.
In recent years, Adidas has toyed around with the shoe a bit more. Now part of their Originals line, the tongue has been shortened, and the kicks are now more narrow and flatter. In accordance, colorways are now more adventurous, like the Cloud White with a blue heel and gum sole was among their better flirtations with an all-white look. Still, the OG model is the best and comfiest option for a daily shoe.
4. Vans Tumble Old Skool Sneakers
Over the past few years, chunky shoes have become cool again. Whether it be Nike Air Force 1s emerging as a streetwear staple, or the Air Jordan 1 getting dressed up for a New York-style fit, there’s now charm in something a bit bigger. That’s where Vans’ Tumble Old Skool sneakers comes into the fold.
Originally a skating brand, its shoe options have multiplied over the years. But going back to basics isn’t exactly a bad thing with the California brand. Its Old Skool line is perfect for pairing with shorts on a sunny day, they might just be the best. Entirely white and featuring the instantly recognizable Vans side stripe, these durable shoes serve as one of the best retro white sneakers for wearing all summer.
5. Reebok Club C 85 Sneakers
Like many other retro shoes, Reebok’s Club C 85 sneakers has made an emergence in recent years. Unlike Adidas’ samba line, or Vans’ OG look, Club Cs draw right from an ’80s tradition. As such, they’re a bit more explicitly nostalgic than others out there. The elaborate Reebok stitching, and chunkier feel make them less sleek than a Killshot.
But the difference in look comes with an advantage: comfort. With tons of arch support and padding around the heel, Reeboks breathe and walk very well, and can be worn all day, regardless of heat or terrain. For something a little different, the white model with a royal blue accent is a good option.
