7 Best Designer Sneakers, 30+ Shoes Tested in 2023
From low-top style to highs, and luxurious designer versions to the iconic designs, we've tested and ranked all the best designer sneakers available in the market today. Any of the best-rated pieces on this list is designed to make you stand out -- guaranteed to separate you from the pack of diverse styles.
If money is not an issue, you can get the high-end luxury sneakers from world-renown brands such as Balenciaga, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. If you feel nostalgic of the ‘90s, the head-turning Gucci Ultrapace sneaker is yours for the taking. If you prefer hot dad, and chunky kicks, then the Balenciaga Defender or Runner is definitely for you.
To give you a rundown of the most sought-after trendsetters today, we’ve rounded up 20+ of the best designer sneakers out there. Take a look at our #1 Picks in different categories.
How we test sneakers
We consider a lot of factors when making our top recommendations. The first step starts at the RunRepeat shoe testing lab where we give all the pairs a thorough go-over and analysis. After taking notes of lab data, we take the shoes to long hours of wear and tear use in the streets and traveling.
The process specifically involves:
- Investing our time, energy, and resources to do all the tests for this guide. We never accept any offer of sponsorship to keep our independence and objectivity.
- Wear-testing the designer sneakers with care. It means not only a quick on-foot try but actually subjecting the kicks to the rigors of walking, traveling, and all-day wear.
- Gathering data about the model’s out-of-the-box fit, break-in time, arch support, cushioning, lacing system, breathability, etc...
- Making sure our recommendations are backed up by honest reviews from dedicated sneakerheads.
In the end, we publish the final ratings of all the pairs of designer sneakers in our collection. Go to our proprietary CoreScore system to find the finest models in the bunch.
Best designer sneakers overall
Corescore
Pros
- Very cushy
- Sufficient support
- Great heel clutch
- Roomy toe box
- Light
- Precise fit
- Easy to put on
Cons
- Insanely expensive
What makes it the best overall?
Best retro designer sneakers
Corescore
Pros
- Luxurious
- Eye-catching design
- Compliment magnet
- Clean finish
- Offers lasting comfort
- High-class detail
- Light and durable
Cons
- Pricey
- Wide-fitting
- Dirt catcher
What makes it the best retro?
Best high top designer sneakers
Corescore
Pros
- Great for all-day wearing
- True to size
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Works as a running shoe
- Pairs well with casual outfits
- No break-in needed
Cons
- Expensive
- Hard to clean
What makes it the best high top?
Best low top designer sneakers
Corescore
Pros
- Premium craftsmanship
- Eye catcher
- Height booster
- Fun to style
- Comfortable ride
- One-off worn-out look
- Easy upkeep
- Dust bag & extra laces included
- Summer-friendly
Cons
- Heavy
- Extremely expensive
- Not easy to walk in them at first
What makes it the best low top?
Best dad designer sneakers
Corescore
Pros
- Comfortable feel
- Premium materials
- Perfect fit (true to size)
- Comes with an extra pair of laces
- Unique look
- Looks good on many outfits
- Great for sports and casual use
- Durable
Cons
- Pricey
- Creases on the toe area
What makes it the best dad?
Best value
Corescore
Pros
- Long-lasting comfort
- Stylish
- Minimalist
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Superb durability
- Good cushioning
- Flexible
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited colorways
What makes it the best value?
Most popular designer sneakers
Corescore
Pros
- Unquestionable comfort
- Durable
- Light on foot
- Appreciable support
- Dope and distressed aesthetic
- Trendy
- Best for street and casual wear
- Good for the cold weather
- Sustainable
Cons
- Extremely expensive
- Ankle area is uncomfy without socks
- Wide
What makes it the most popular?
