5 Best High Top Sneakers in 2023

There are a few things to consider when buying high-top sneakers. Not only should they be stylish, but they must be comfy and supportive as well.
For this reason, we meticulously put through more than 100 pairs of high-top sneakers under a series of tests and comparisons. We came up with a curated list of our top picks for various categories and provided A to Z details to help you pick which one suits your penchant.
Best high-top sneakers overall














What makes it the best?
Results from our lab testing and firsthand experience wearing the Vans Sk8-Hi sneakers confirmed that they are the ultimate high-top. The distinct ankle-length silhouette of these skating sneakers provides excellent ankle support and surprising breathability. What truly sets these kicks apart is their minimalist canvas upper, built to withstand the test of time.
In the lab, we subjected the sneaker to several assessments, including the flexibility test. We used a manual bar clamp and compressed the midsoles of the Sk8-Hi. The kicks bend uniformly at the top of the foot, signifying appreciable bendability, which is awesome for a high top! This is mirrored during our walks, where the footbed took very little time to wear in.
During our strolls around town, we not only admired the appealing aesthetics of the Sk8-Hi but also found them remarkably comfortable. The well-padded tall collar snugly embraced our feet, ensuring a pleasant experience throughout our journey. The high-cut design also delivered the desired ankle support, making it an ideal choice for everyday lifestyle wear.
Furthermore, we were pleasantly surprised by the breathability of these high-top sneakers. Typically, high-tops lack breathability, but the Vans Sk8-Hi defied expectations. The canvas upper allowed air to circulate, keeping our feet fresh and comfortable. After several days of wear, the Sk8-Hi proved its durability, further solidifying its legendary status among skating sneakers.
However, the kicks take some time to put on. For those who prioritize easy access, we do not recommend Vans Sk8-Hi.
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
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Best chunky high-top sneakers

What makes it the best?
Pros
- Stylish
- Uniquely-modified Chucks
- Comfy
- Elevated
- Lightweight
- Pairs well with any attire
- Supportive
Cons
- Gets dirty easily
- Its laces are too long
- Lacks traction
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Best retro high-top sneakers

What makes it the best?
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Nostalgic look
- Varied colorways
- Spacious interior
- Soft upper
- Offers sustained comfort
- Durable sole unit
Cons
- Lacks support
- Thin laces
- No extra laces
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Best Air Jordan high-top sneakers

What makes it the best?
Pros
- Great for casual wear
- Comfortable footbed
- Uncluttered design
- Mix and match champ
- Well-fitting
- Supportive ankle
- Reliable on-court traction
- Excellent court feel
Cons
- Materials could be improved
- Not breathable
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Most popular high-top sneakers

What makes it the most popular?
Pros
- Classic look
- Superb quality
- Supreme comfort and cushioning
- Great value for money
- Long-lasting
- Ample arch support
- Eye-catching silhouette
Cons
- Some versions run narrow
- Lacks ventilation
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Comparison of the 5 best high top sneakers
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How we test sneakers
- To avoid any biased feedback, we purchased our high-top shoes with our own funds.
- We put these sneakers thoroughly under various courses of indoor and outdoor tests by wearing them in our everyday usual affairs.
- To make our rankings even more comprehensive, we have gathered data and scores from the results of our conducted lab tests. We get more profound in obtaining facts by slicing the shoes in half and investigating what composes the inside and the footbed.
One of the things we check is the waterproofness of a sneaker. What we do is stream the whole upper with water and evaluate how dry or how soggy the inside becomes after. This way, we also get to confirm breathability because we are able to determine how permeable the upper material is.