7 Best Low Top Sneakers in 2023

The king of all low-top sneakers is one that has: sensational comfort, near indestructibility, and a silhouette that is eternally significant. After dedicating an inordinate amount of time to testing and reviewing thousands of low-tops, we found the ultimate best in the form of Vans Old Skool. 

Just like other low-tops, the Old Skool underwent our meticulous testing process. With the help of our lab equipment, we saw how sturdy the construction of the shoe is. Its outsole is super durable, reminiscent of its skating heritage. The canvas upper held up pretty well before finally succumbing to the abrasions from our power drill with a metallic brush tip. All in all, the sneaker is a true legend in its own right. 

We also hit the road with the kicks and they showed us why it is the rightful king of low tops. From the get-go, the kicks were extremely comfy. It felt like a mattress of comfort upon every step. Plus, Vans Old Skool is so breathable our feet stayed cool all throughout! 

Almost fifty years since its first release, the Old Skool has come a long way from being a skating silhouette to its iconic status as a staple lifestyle sneaker. According to our database, the low-top has accumulated more than 230 colorways and limited edition releases today—proof of its perennial popularity. 

However, we also found through lab testing that the canvas upper is a stain magnet and very difficult to clean. Those who do not want to worry about getting their low-top kicks dirty should look elsewhere. 

After testing hundreds upon hundreds of sneakers, the Adidas Stan Smith has emerged at the pinnacle as the finest classic low-top. Its silhouette is so inherently clean and iconic that it remains suitable for wear at any time of day, during any month of the year. Yet, its attributes extend beyond aesthetics. We've also ascertained that this sneaker boasts a durability that has enabled it to endure for over fifty years since its initial introduction.

With an impressive array of over 420 colorways and special edition releases, we embarked on a journey to verify if the Stan Smith still lives up to its illustrious reputation. Carrying the sneakers into our shoe lab, we immersed them in rigorous trials. During the abrasion test, we subjected the leather upper to intensive scuffing using a metal brush attached to a power drill. To our great surprise and delight, the sneaker exhibited no indications of scratching – a true testament to its legendary status.

We also conducted a stain test on the low top and it adeptly repelled the chalk and dye that we applied to the toebox. A swift wipe was all it necessitated to restore the leather to a sparkling clean state. Even during the water-resistance test, the Stan Smith demonstrated commendable water-tightness, except in the region near the perforations.

The low-cut design of the Stan Smith allowed it to be a versatile everyday footwear. However, we caution shoppers that the Stan Smith lacks adequate arch support. Those in search of classic low-tops with robust support should consider exploring alternative options.

Durable leather construction. Lightweight silhouette. Exceptional comfort and breathable. This is how Reebok Club C 85 stole our hearts to become the best tennis-inspired low-top among thousands of sneakers that we tested and reviewed. Combined with its rich heritage and history, the deal was sealed.

The 30+-year-old tennis sneaker is a force to be reckoned with. And it delivered beyond expectations. During our rigorous lab testing, it outperformed other tennis low-tops, particularly in terms of durability. Using a wire brush attached to a Dremel drill, we deliberately scuffed the leather. Yet, true to its legendary status, the C85 brushed off the abrasions as if they were nothing!

On the court, we donned the kicks and engaged in action. Despite intense play on concrete and asphalt courts, these tennis sneakers emerged unscathed. During our matches, we also noticed that the kicks breathe as if they possess lungs. The perforations on the toebox facilitated air circulation, keeping our feet fresh even under the scorching sun. And to top it off, the kicks are astonishingly light!

After playing, we were surprised to discover that the sneakers are very easy to clean. All it took was a simple wipe and the dirt on the leather was—poof!—gone

Nevertheless, the Reebok Club C 85 is not the best choice for individuals with narrow feet. We observed that they tend to be slightly on the loose side. For sneakerheads who prioritize snug-fitting low-tops, it might be wise to explore other options.

In terms of durability, the Nike Air Max 97 stands as the unequivocal best among all the low-tops we tested. Through thorough testing within and beyond our lab, we discovered that the sneaker's mixed material upper is a visual spectacle constructed like a tank. To top it off, the AM97 doesn't compromise on comfort and style.

To assess the sneaker's durability, we turned to our power drill, equipping it with a wire brush. Powering on the drill, we vigorously scuffed the mesh-and-leather upper for several minutes. After the test, the AM97 emerged practically unscathed, devoid of scratches. With no visible signs of wear and tear on the upper, the sneaker's resilience is truly remarkable.

Venturing onto the streets, the shoes further demonstrated their dependable durability across diverse settings and surfaces. Throughout our walks, we also relished the superb comfort of the AM97. Its sock liner feels luxuriously smooth, and the overall silhouette remains light on the foot. Strolling the streets in these sneakers is an absolute pleasure.

Back at the lab, we conducted a stain test on the sneaker. However, when we poured dye into the toebox, the mesh absorbed a significant portion of the color, and removing it proved to be challenging. Due to this, we advise those seeking wash-friendly low-tops to explore alternative options.

The ideal low-top for cold weather should encompass warmth, water resistance, and a fashionable aesthetic suitable for fall and winter. The Nike MX-720-818 not only meets these criteria but surpasses them. Our extensive testing of various low-tops revealed that this sneaker's synthetic and leather upper, presented in a futuristic silhouette, outperformed its competitors.

At first glance, the MX-720-818 resembles a shoe-shaped sleeping bag, but its performance exceeds expectations. In our initial wear test, we were greeted by the cozy interior of the sneaker. Its comfort level mirrored that of a warm Christmas embrace.

Within the controlled setting of our lab, we conducted a scratch test on the spacesuit-inspired synthetic upper. Utilizing a metal brush attached to a power drill, we subjected the upper to scuffing. Remarkably, the material exhibited resilience and remained free from any indications of damage.

Our evaluation of the Nike MX-720-818's water resistance involved pouring water onto the upper. As anticipated, the synthetic and leather construction deflected the liquid to the sides, preserving a warm and dry interior.

Beyond its water-repellent properties, the sneaker's overall futuristic aesthetic harmonizes with the damp autumn weather and frigid winter conditions. However, it's important to note that we observed the shoes to be slightly stiffer than average. Individuals seeking a more flexible low-top option may want to check elsewhere.

We rigorously tested and reviewed numerous low-top sneakers, ultimately identifying the Adidas Busenitz as the epitome of value for money. Delivering dependable durability, exceptional comfort, and even weatherproofing, the low-top is truly worth every penny. 

According to our comprehensive database, a pair of Adidas Busenitz retails at $80. In contrast, the average cost of a low-top stands at $112.8. This positions the Busenitz as 29% more affordable. Furthermore, the mean price of an Adidas low-top rests at $117.7.

Despite its below-average price tag, our lab tests confirmed that the Busenitz refuses to compromise on durability. We went at it using our Dremel drill equipped with a wire brush tip. After scratching the upper for a considerable amount of time, it remained unscathed. We also took the shoes for a trip around town and both the upper and the outsoles showcased incredible grit and resistance from abrasions.

Remarkably, despite its modest price point, we discovered the Adidas Busenitz to be effectively watertight. In our lab experiments, water poured onto the upper was deflected towards the sides.

However, it's essential to note that these kicks lack breathability. As a result, we don't recommend these sneakers for individuals seeking affordably priced, breathable low-top options.

Nike Air Max 270 reaffirms its enduring popularity by outshining other low-top sneakers in our database. According to our research, the sneaker boasts over 107,000 combined expert and casual wearer reviews as of August 2023. Impressively, within merely five years since its 2018 debut, it offers a staggering range of approximately 200 colorways.

The sneaker rapidly became the center of attention due to its groundbreaking heel height of 32mm. Notably, it's recognized as the inaugural Air Max designed exclusively for lifestyle wear. The buzz surrounding it was validated through rigorous testing in our lab and on city streets.

Conducting a Dremel test on the shoe, we intentionally scratched the upper with a metal brush attached to a power drill. After several minutes of scuffing, we discerned minimal noteworthy damage. Its robustness stood out, confirming that the AM270 is not just empty hype.

In line with its reputation as a pure lifestyle sneaker, we took the Air Max 270 for a stroll around town. This experience allowed us to relish the extreme comfort and superb breathability of the shoe. Its lightweight design prevented fatigue, even after extended hours of streetwear. A bonus feature: Its stylish and unmistakable silhouette isn't merely versatile; it's also an attention magnet.

However, the elevated heel height requires an adjustment period. We don't recommend the AM270 for those seeking to skip this adjustment phase.