7 Best Knit Sneakers For Women, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023
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Lace-up the latest top-rated women’s knit sneakers from trusted brands. These well-ventilated designs from Nike, the Three Stripes, Puma, and Skechers, among other trusted brands, are the perfect kicks for spring and summer adventures.
Knit-made sneakers are lightweight, typically supportive, and stretchable, which translates to a sock-like feel and a more comfortable ride. If you’re a Swoosh fan, the label’s VaporMax Knit collection is simply amazing. Adidas’ Primeknit sneakers are on par with the best out there.
With 150+ pairs from over 20 different brands, buying the perfect pair (or two) can be time-consuming. To help you save time, our in-house sneakerheads provide you with a roadmap to the best women’s knit sneakers currently available in the market. Enjoy browsing below our favorite picks!
Table of contents How we test sneakersBest overallBest NikeBest AdidasBest retroBest PUMABest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test sneakers
All our in-depth reviews and top-ranking lists are based on evidence. We gather our data for the guides from mechanical tests in the RunRepeat lab, and real-life performance tests in the street. We further make comparisons of the sneakers on this list based on performance and value.
The selection process specifically involves:
- Putting in the hours of research about each model. We also spend days wear-testing the footwear by engaging in different activities. We use our own money to fund all the tests and ensure 100% objectivity.
- Performing strength evaluation and usefulness of the sneakers in the real world. We assess the overall quality of the knit fabric, style, actual fit, foot function control, cushioning, in-shoe feel, flexibility, traction, and many other features.
- Collating more data from various reputable internet forums, expert opinions, best-selling lists, and hundreds of customer reviews.
To conclude this guide, we finalize and publish our top rankings of all the women’s knit sneakers on the list. You will also find on the CoreScore the final rating of each sneaker for your guidance.
Best women's knit sneakers overall
Nike Air Max 270
Amazon
Free shipping
$115
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$120
Nike
$137
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$160
Corescore
Pros
- Lightweight
- Instantly comfortable
- True to size
- Durable
- Can be worn without socks
- Flexible
- Super breathable
- Sleek modern looks
- Crazy number of colorways
Cons
- Heel height might need adjusting to
- Not the best for standing all day
What makes it the best overall?
Air Max 270 is a sleek, sporty, lightweight lifestyle shoe. With a huge 32mm heel height it's definitely a head-turner. Ultimately, this is a durable shoe that fits in perfectly with the times and at a fair price.
Best Nike knit sneakers for women
Nike Space Hippie 04
Amazon
Free shipping
$80
Stadium Goods
$89
Nike
$94
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$135
Corescore
Pros
- Breathable
- Unique
- Innovative
- Sustainable
- Lightweight
- Responsive
- Snug fit
Cons
- Pricey
- Stiff heel rubber
What makes it the best Nike?
As part of the brand’s Move to Zero initiative, it releases a new collection of recycling trash. However, eco-construction will only matter if it is wearable. Thankfully, sneakerheads take Nike Space Hippie 04 a success in terms of being a fashionable eco-friendly sneaker. Despite being a product of reused waste, the sneaker does not lack comfort and function.
Best Adidas knit sneakers for women
Adidas Pharrell Williams Human Race NMD TR
Out of stock in all 52 shops
Adidas women's knit sneakersCorescore
Pros
- Bold design
- Premium quality
- Exclusive
- Unique style
- Easy to style
- Secured fit
- Well-made
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
What makes it the best Adidas?
The Pharrell Williams x Adidas Human Race NMD TR is a premium shoe that has that enviable combination of exclusivity, comfort, quality, and style. Take the shoe walking or hiking because the trail outsole is grippy enough for many kinds of activities, and the versatile design can be paired with any outfit. The shoe can be pricey, but it’s worth every cent spent.
Best retro knit sneakers for women
Adidas Ultraboost Supernova DNA
Amazon
Free shipping
$57
Adidas
Free shipping and returns
$57
Zappos
Running Warehouse
Corescore
Pros
- Boost-powered
- A go-to sneaker
- Perfect for walks and jogs
- Supportive
- Ideal for long wear
- Incredibly comfortable
- Classic silhouette
- Banger design
Cons
- Slightly tight
- High price point
What makes it the best retro?
Just a piece of advice, prepare your nostalgic memories to be awakened, as this sneaker brought lots of sentimentality to sneaker fans. Don’t fret, though! Adidas Ultraboost Supernova DNA is equipped with modern tech that provides extraordinary comfort. Its plushy and supportive interior allows sneakerheads to go the distance without any aches and pains.
Best PUMA knit sneakers for women
PUMA Electron Street
Amazon
Free shipping
$30
Shoebacca
$45
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$65
Zappos
Corescore
Pros
- Great in the summer heat
- Ultra lightweight
- Shock-absorbing sole
- Soft well-padded collar
- Clean and sleek design
- Very affordable
- Functionally versatile
Cons
- Various durability concerns
- Not for wide feet
What makes it the best PUMA?
PUMA Electron Street is a summer-ready, all-rounder kick you can toss from work to play. Having a buttery soft and airy upper makes it among the comfiest from PUMA. If you’re up for cheap running sneakers that’ll get you covered for most of your activities, you might find this among your top choices.
Best value
Corescore
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Versatile design
- Comfy platform
- Appealing modern look
- Well-ventilated
- Easy to put on
Cons
- Not for wet surfaces
- Flimsy laces
What makes it the best value?
Dubbed by some sites as the ‘poor man’s NMD,’ the X_PLR shoe from Adidas Originals is appreciated by most buyers as it is well-crafted despite its wallet-friendly price. Also, wearers are delighted that the shoe's design takes less time to pair with various active and casual wear. But apart from style, it also delivers a pleasant underfoot feel that adds to the value of this shoe.
Most popular knit sneakers for women
New Balance XC72
Joes New Balance Outlet
$60
ASOS
Free shipping & returns
$60
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$90
Footshop
$98
Corescore
Pros
- Unique aesthetic
- Superb comfort
- Excellent quality
- Grippy
- Eye-catching hues
- Great for all-day wear
- Reliable lockdown
- Perfect finish
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- Rubs on heel
What makes it the most popular?
Apart from ticking all the boxes of excellent modern sneakers, the XC72 makes sure that you also stay fly style-wise. It is an updated spin on the 70s model called the UXC72V1. Its squared forefoot and rear midsole, along with the vertical split design, give off a retro-future look that will surely amp up any ensemble.
