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.
Table of contents How we test sneakersBest overallBest NikeBest AdidasBest PUMABest high topBest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
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
Vans Old Skool
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$25
Sun and Ski
$33
Stadium Goods
$39
Karmaloop
Free shipping and exchange
$40
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
Vans Old Skools have soared from subculture staple to mainstream fame repeatedly over the years. It’s easy to see why. With a classic, versatile silhouette, brand recognition, and a comfortable, breathable upper, who could resist having a pair in their wardrobe? While the canvas/rubber construction might not be the most durable and can collect stains easily, the Vans Old Skool still looks amazing when beaten and worn.
Best Nike classic sneakers
Nike Air Max 97
Amazon
Free shipping
$111
Stadium Goods
$115
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$120
Nike
$130
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
What else can be said about the Nike Air Max 97 that hasn't been said before, the shoe has literally had books written about it. It's an athletic, versatile, and comfy sneaker that looks incredible in so many colorways. There's a reason it's been one of Nike's most popular sneakers for decades. Like others in its family, this is a silhouette that will stay relevant for years to come and work with most wardrobes.
Best Adidas classic sneakers
Adidas Campus 00S
Amazon
Free shipping
$110
Adidas
Free shipping and returns
$110
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$110
ASOS
Free shipping & returns
$110
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
If only one word can be associated with this sneaker, it is ‘favorite.’ It is unbelievable how many times Adidas Campus 00S has been referred to as the sneakerheads’ new favorite shoe. I mean, why couldn’t they when this sneaker made them feel like cool kids? Apart from its badass retro skater look, it is a top pick when taking outdoor walks as it is supremely padded, delivering additional comfort every stride.
Best PUMA classic sneakers
PUMA Suede Classic XXI
Amazon
Free shipping
$48
Shoebacca
Free shipping & returns
$55
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$70
Puma US
$70
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
The iconic Suede Classic was relaunched in 2021 as the PUMA Suede Classic XXI. Retaining classic style from 1968, this sneaker comes with fresh colorways and upgrades without compromising its OG quality and comfort. Moreover, it has a timeless and stylish design that will absolutely complete your casual outfit while at the same time not hurting your pocket.
Best classic high top sneakers
Vans SK8-Hi
Amazon
Free shipping
$38
Stadium Goods
$49
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$53
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$57
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
The Vans Sk8-Hi is the original subculture sneaker. Built as a super-padded skate shoe it was soon adopted by the punk rock scene for its large space on which to customize. Today it's not just a piece of history but a versatile and easy-going silhouette that works with almost any outfit. Not only that but it's strong enough to last years of use and abuse.
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
The Adidas Stan Smith is a legendary sneaker with a claim to fame as the original white tennis shoe for the masses. Culture has respected that for the last 50 years the Stan Smith is still as relevant today as it was when the man was winning trophies. It's fair to say that with its robust design and sleek looks, it's probably going to last another 50.
Most popular classic sneakers
Nike Air Max 90
Nike
$100
ASOS
Free shipping & returns
$104
Amazon
Free shipping
$105
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$110
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
Verdict
The Air Max 90 is a sneaker with a backstory. Everyone has seen it and most love it. If you grew up between 1990 and 2010 you probably wanted a pair. Each pair feels ready to last another 30 years, with breathability to boot. Regardless, Nike renews these year after year offering more and more options to whet any appetite.
