7 Best Classic Sneakers, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023

A crisp, timeless, and refined pair of kicks can elevate any look. Whether you need one to add to your collection or for streetwear, or even evening semi-formal wear. We recommend a comprehensive list of classic sneakers that are beloved by generations -- for both men and women.
Depending on your specific style or budget range, there’s timeless kicks for you from Vans Old Skool or Vans Era, Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, Nike Air Max releases, PUMA Suede Classic, and Adidas Stan Smith, just to name a few. These iconic designs has a long history both on and off the court, and onto the streets.
To identify the very best, we’ve considered 200+ pairs of classic sneakers and tested all of them. Take a look at the top picks below to get you started.
How we test sneakers
A panel of shoe lab technicians and testers, wear-testing a range of sizes are working together to make the recommendations. We collect essential data of the shoes’ quality and competitive features at the RunRepeat lab. Then the testers wear the shoes in everyday activities and report back to us with their insights.
Here are the steps we do:
- Procure the pairs of classic shoes for our tests. We don’t accept sponsorship so you will be assured that all our reviews are 100% bias-free.
- Wear-test each model meticulously. We don’t just do a simple on-foot try but actually wear the sneaks in actual day-to-day activities and athletic events.
- Take the test further by wearing the sneakers for days of wear and tear. This allows us to assess their break-in period, overall comfort, versatility, durability, breathability, and more.
- Make sure our top recommendations are backed up by honest and independent reviews from a panel of dedicated wear-testers.
Lastly, we assign all the classic sneakers in our repertoire their final ratings. See our proprietary CoreScore system to find the best-rated pieces in the bunch.
Best classic sneakers overall
CoreScore
- Top 9% in sneakers
- Top 12% 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
Best Nike classic sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 27% in sneakers
- Top 18% in Nike sneakers
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Good all-season sneaker
- Good for sockless wear
- An identifiable piece of fashion history
- Fits true to size
- Near indestructible
- Lightweight
- Feels as athletic as it looks
- Great even for winter
Cons
- Takes some time to wear in
- Attaches to stains easily
Verdict
Best Adidas classic sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 1% in sneakers
- Top 1% in Adidas sneakers
- Top 4% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Extremely padded tongue and collar
- Astounding comfort
- Awesome for daily and casual wear
- Spot-on fit
- Light on foot
- Soft suede upper
- Worth the price
- Old-school vibes
- Stylish for casual fits
- Comes with two extra sets of laces
Cons
- Requires break-in period
- Its midsole’s a tad firm
- Difficult to clean and maintain
Verdict
Best PUMA classic sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 23% in sneakers
- Top 16% in PUMA sneakers
- Top 24% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Timeless design
- Topnotch quality
- Environment-friendly
- Great for short walks
- Affordable
- Easy to style
- Wide array of color options
Cons
- Stiff at first
- Less arch support
Verdict
Best classic high top sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 12% in sneakers
- Top 19% 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
Best value
CoreScore
- Top 10% in sneakers
- Top 21% 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
Most popular classic sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 24% in Nike sneakers
- Top 28% 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