7 Best Knit Sneakers For Women, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023
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
$120
Champs Sports
Free shipping & returns
$130
Nike
$137
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$160
CoreScore
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
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
Verdict
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
$85
Stadium Goods
$89
Nike
$102
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$135
CoreScore
- Top 27% in sneakers
- Top 19% in Nike sneakers
- Top 5% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Breathable
- Unique
- Innovative
- Sustainable
- Lightweight
- Responsive
- Snug fit
Cons
- Pricey
- Stiff heel rubber
Verdict
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
- Top 3% in sneakers
- Top 8% in Adidas sneakers
Pros
- Bold design
- Premium quality
- Exclusive
- Unique style
- Easy to style
- Secured fit
- Well-made
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
Verdict
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
CoreScore
- Top 3% in sneakers
- Top 8% in Adidas sneakers
Pros
- Fashion-forward silhouette
- Primeknit upper
- Easy on/off
- Well-made
- Comfortable for long-wearing
- Surprisingly affordable
- Breathable
Cons
- Limited colors
Verdict
This women’s shoe boasts of a form-fitting Adidas Primeknit woven upper drenched in cool colors, which makes this variation very minimalist and ultra-chic. This laceless interpretation has similarities with the nomadic Adidas runner, the NMD City Sock regarding aesthetics and comfort, which makes this sneaker ideal for varied indoor and outdoor events. This edition’s eye-catching silhouette is made even more attractive with its reasonable price tag.
Best PUMA knit sneakers for women
CoreScore
- Top 26% in sneakers
- Top 21% in PUMA sneakers
Pros
- Appealing color combinations
- Stylish knit upper
- Sock-like fit
- Durable outsole
- Versatile
- Great on wet surfaces
- Flexible sole
Cons
- High-end price
- Fiddly to put on
Verdict
PUMA jumps into the latest craze among shoe companies, which is the production of the premium knit-like upper. In the Ignite EvoKNIT, the wearers are in for a shoe that mixes fashion and sports featuring an innovative mid-height upper that hugs the foot. It has a surprisingly flexible sole and tons of comfort that keeps you comfortable all day.
Best value
Hey Dude Wendy Sox
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$33
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$35
Sun and Ski
$42
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Free shipping
$60
CoreScore
- Top 2% in sneakers
- Top 11% in Hey Dude sneakers
- Top 19% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Breathable
- Insanely light
- Stylish
- Easy to slip on and off
- Good heel support
- Orthotic-friendly
- Great for long walks
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Runs wide for some
- Lacks arch support
- Poor traction
Verdict
A perfect way to enjoy being constantly on the go is by getting the Hey Dude Wendy Sox. With its incredible comfort and lightness, this sneaker makes the long-hour standing or walking a breeze. Together with its different styles that best suit your casual ensembles, this kick becomes a favorite go-to pair.
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
$104
CoreScore
- Top 2% most popular sneakers
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
Verdict
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.
