Trendy Sneakers for Women, From Nike, Adidas, & New Balance to Gucci & Balenciaga
Knowing the latest trends in women’s sneakers is no longer a thing for the sneakerhead culture only.
With streetwear clothing increasingly courted by luxury brands, wearing the trendiest sneakers – an integral part of streetwear styles – is a must.
Finally, sneakers are recognized for what they are; the central point of the footwear industry, growing in styles, sales, and consumer demand.
Not too long ago, just another type of shoe worn by sports enthusiasts and athletes, women’s sneakers have become a full-blown fashion zeitgeist.
Stylish and comfortable, standing out from every other type of shoe, sneakers provide women with endless wearing possibilities.
I am sure most of you already have a pair of go-to sneakers in your possession.
But, if you’re serious about wearing (or knowing) the best women’s sneakers out there, this article is for you.
From chic women’s sneakers to chunky, dad, functional, and even smart sneakers, let’s discover the best sneakers for women in 2022.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Best Women’s Sneakers 2022
Balenciaga Tripple S Sneakers
BEST CHUNKY SNEAKERS
Hogan Maxi 222 Sneakers
BEST PLATFORM SNEAKERS
Converse Run Start Unisex Sneakers
BEST HIGH TOP SNEAKERS
Adidas Original C1 Sneakers
BEST SOCK SNEAKERS
Valentino Backnet Sneakers
BEST TENNIS SNEAKERS
Balmain B Bold Sneakers
BEST DESIGNER SNEAKERS
Gucci Leather Ace Sneakers
BEST CASUAL SNEAKERS
Stella McCartney Eclypse Sneakers
BEST SUSTAINABLE SNEAKERS
New Balance 624 Sneakers
BEST DAD SNEAKERS
Reebok Club C Sneakers
BEST CLASSIC SNEAKERS
Puma Classic XXI Sneakers
BEST RETRO SNEAKERS
Nike x Off White Air Jordans
BEST COLLAB SNEAKERS
Under Armour Running Sneakers
BEST WORKOUT SNEAKERS
Nike Adapt Max Sneakers
BEST FUTURISTIC SNEAKERS
Veja Hogan 222 Sneakers
BEST VEGAN SNEAKERS
1/15
Chunky Sneakers
Re-launched in 2017 by Demna Gvasalia, the Georgian designer behind the cult-loved fashion collective Vetements and now creative director at Balenciaga, chunky sneakers are one of the most polarizing footwear trends in 2022.
Demna is also sociated with the return of OTT sneakers, following the success it had with Balenciaga’s ultra-chunky Triple-S, part of the fall-winter 2017 collection.
And while some fashion critics foresee a return to timeless trainers, women can’t get enough of oversized and bulky sneakers.
The trend is further helped by streetwear brands experimenting with shapes and silhouettes.
And the good news is that ‘chunky’ sneakers continue to rock in 2022!
Nevertheless, one of the fastest ways to elevate your look is via chunky soles.
The juxtaposition of the ‘dad shoe’ silhouette with the extra height will turn heads on the spot.
A stalwart on fashion week runways, street style veterans, and Instagram influencers, the chunky sneaker trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Paired with loose-fitted jeans and simple-cut tees, chunky sneakers will always stand out; remember, the chunkier – the better.
Ugly and bulky trainers are more of a faux pas fad, and the two pieces I’ve curated below are the best chunky sneakers for women right now – for every taste and budget.
2/15
Platform Sneakers
Not to be confused with chunky sneakers, platform women’s sneakers have an obnoxiously weird design that makes people go, ‘I need that.’
Over the past few years, we’ve seen many controversial women’s sneakers; from dad-inspired styles to chunky soles galore, most of them have become daily wardrobe staples.
As you may have noticed, the sneaker trends work in rotation, and platform sneakers are no exception.
Introduced to 90s fashion by the ‘Spice Girls’, platform sneakers reached peak popularity in the 2000s fashion, expected to reign supreme in 2022, over sandals and casual trainers.
Looking clean and crisp – without being too much – platform sneakers are a must if you’re looking to rock the Y2K fashion trend.
3/15
High-Top sneakers
Most commonly used as athletic shoes – in particular in basketball – high-top sneakers are often confused with the mid-top ones.
However, mid-top sneakers are shorter and extend no higher than the wearer’s ankle.
On the other hand, high-top sneakers are a type of shoe that extends over the wearer’s ankle.
Fashionable and functional, women’s high-top sneakers have been a crowd favorite since the ’70s.
Moreover, the high-top sneakers trend continues to grow in popularity after making a comeback in 2014.
Classic and versatile, some high-top sneakers for women will never go out of style.
Nowadays, the most sought high-top sneakers are either the original Converse All-Stars and Nike Air Forces 1, 2, and 3, or variations of these models.
4/15
Sock Sneakers
When compared to classic kicks, you can argue that sock sneakers are an unusual breed of shoes.
With a stretch-knit and breathable fabric, sock sneakers are a hybrid type of shoe, made, as the name suggests, to resemble a sock.
While the sock sneakers style is not something new, the look gained massive popularity after Balenciaga’s sock sneakers reached a cult-like following.
A curiosity ten years ago, sock sneakers are everywhere, especially on the catwalks paired with techwear clothes to create a sophisticated look.
Worn by celebrities and designers alike at runways in London, NYC, and Paris, functional sneakers are, above all, some of the most purchased women’s sneakers right now.
And, in direct competition with Balenciaga and Vetements, the number of brands making affordable sock sneakers is also on the rise.
For example, Adidas NMD City Sock is already more popular than Balenciaga’s best sock sneaker, while Nike and Reebok recover ground fast.
5/15
Tennis Sneakers
Inspired by traditional tennis shoes – a rubber sole and low-top canvas or leather upper – the tennis sneakers category for women is not made for the tennis court.
Moreover, it is not the shoe’s functionality but its style that has made sneaker brands and designer labels build variations of the original tennis sneakers.
With their classic look, tennis sneakers are a big part of the sneaker culture, reaching hype sneakers status in 2022.
This season, we love the ultra-minimal stylings of CELINE’s Triomphe Lace-up Sneakers and Valentino’s Garavani Logo Trainers, both with white leather uppers accented by perforations.
There are also the Golden Goose’s pre-distressed sneakers if you’re after that luxe, lived-in look.
6/15
Designer Sneakers
The continued permeance between streetwear and high fashion has seen sneakers cement their rightful place as the ultimate versatile footwear option.
From Balenciaga to Gucci and Tom Ford, designer sneakers are a must-have accessory in every fashion lover’s wardrobe.
Designers like Gucci, Common Projects, and Vetements have long embraced the sportier side of footwear, and more high-end designer labels have joined the party, more recently.
There’s no doubt that if you want premium materials and instant brand recognition, designer kicks are the ideal choice.
Match your designer sneakers with a pair of jeans and a dark-blue suit jacket to showcase next-level style and versatility, while maintaining comfort.
Price-wise, we are seeing top fashion brands such as Saint Laurent and Gucci making the sports-luxe sneakers available to the masses, now in 2022.
7/15
Casual Sneakers
If you want to give your house slippers a post-pandemic break and try some shoes with laces, casual women’s sneakers are a perfect choice.
And that’s because, of all 2022 sneakers for women in this list, casual sneakers are the least overwhelming or obligatory.
Designed as a comfortable shoe at heart, casual sneakers have a sleek silhouette that works wonders with skinny jeans for women.
And, of all casual sneakers, the ones below are the most popular right now; retro classics, old-school throwbacks, and eco-friendly designer collaborations.
8/15
Sustainable Sneakers
We see more and more sneakers made from more environmentally-friendly materials, like post-consumer rescued polyester and recycled leather.
Priced at $98, Everlane’s Court sneakers are made from leather obtained from an environmentally friendly gold-certified tannery.
The sole is over 90 percent free of virgin plastic, and the lining is made of 100 percent recycled polyester.
Another great brand in the sustainable sneakers category is the French brand Veja.
With Meghan Markle’s marketing help, the label has almost conquered the sustainable sneakers market.
With soles from ethically sourced Amazonian rubber and responsibly produced leather for the uppers, Veja is a must-wear brand of sustainable sneakers in 2022.
9/15
Dad Sneakers
Very popular now in 2022, dad sneakers have been in fashion for a couple of years now.
Also described as ugly sneakers, dad sneakers have seen a resurgence following TikTok’s nostalgia for normcore trends and 90s styles.
While super comfortable and great for all-day wear, a typical dad shoe has thick, chunky soles and throwback paneling in bright colors.
You can style dad sneakers in an endless number of ways, not just with dad jeans.
Try a sporty look, pairing them with your activewear, or rock them casually with joggers and a t-shirt.
Right now, the most representative dad sneakers are New Balance’s 452 sneakers and Nike Air Monarch sneakers, both designed in bold colors for extra visual impact.
10/15
Classic Sneakers
Whether you’re a smart-casual dresser or not, remember that classic sneakers are a must-have in every man, woman, and child’s wardrobe.
When it comes to classic sneakers, look for heritage sports brands rather than trend-led women’s sneakers of high-end designer brands or popular streetwear brands.
Material-wise, classic sneakers (or legacy shoes) are made from either canvas or leather.
Color-wise, for classic sneakers, “cream is the new white!”
Matched nicely, cream-hued and off-white sneakers will deliver that “worn-out touch” to your next OOTD.
Nike’s Air Force 1 takes the top spot as a truly timeless pair from all classic sneakers out there.
Although, you may want to opt for the Air Force 1 Sage Low for a feminine update on the sneaker.
It has a slimmer silhouette than the original, coupled with a slightly elevated platform midsole.
However, Nike fans will be pleased to see that many of the traditional design details, like the leather upper, athletic perforations on the midfoot, and Swoosh emblem on the sidewall, remain.
Other excellent classic sneakers choices include Adidas Originals’ Stan Smiths, Reebok’s Club C 85, and Converse’s Chuck Taylor All-Stars.
11/15
Retro Sneakers
Most sneakers for women come and go like the changing of the tides.
In the summer, the streamlined, minimalist trainers are the height of footwear fashion.
A few months later, everyone’s stomping around in bulky kicks more suited for a lunar mission than walking or sporting activities.
But, there’s one type of sneakers that remains untouched.
Throwback silhouettes with a hearty dose of retro cool aren’t going anywhere, making them a solid option should you find yourself on the hunt for timeless trainers.
With bold color choices and classic patterns, women’s retro sneakers are a style statement in their own right.
And, those of you feeling more adventurous, opt-in for pastel hues to create a fresh, youthful look.
12/15
Collab Sneakers
Nowadays, the world of celebs and influencer collaborative sneakers – think blockbusters and limited collaboration releases – is taking over women’s fashion.
Driven by worldwide fashion designers (in athleisure and streetwear) collaborating with luxury fashion brands, this section includes rare releases that more than often end up on collector’s shelves.
I recommend you have a look at SoleSavy, an online community dedicated to sneakers collaborations between high-profile brands and designers.
Some of the more notable releases as of late include the upcoming Pharrell Williams x Adidas Humanrace collection, Yeezy Quantum “Onyx”, and other releases by Prada, Pharrell, Palace, Craig Green, Human Made, and Air Jordans.
The advantage of buying rare women’s sneakers collaborations is the knowledge that what you get is authentic sneakers, part of a significant trend.
Designed for hardcore sneakerheads, collab sneakers are pure fashion statements loved by people worldwide.
13/15
Workout Sneakers
Comfortable athleisure women’s sneakers have reached new heights during the lockdown.
In particular, workout sneakers have become the go-to shoes for the majority of trendsetters.
Workout sneakers will make you look good in the gym while offering improved grip and support, so you can work out safely and with greater effectiveness.
Right now, some of the best workout trainers for women are made by Under Armour, Inov-8, Nike, Adidas, New Balance, Reebok, and Onitsuka Tiger.
Of all variations of workout sneakers, the classic lace-ups are the most used.
Suitable for gym and everyday activities, people use them for gym sessions, grocery runs, or just lounging around at home.
14/15
Futuristic Sneakers
Following Nike Air Max’s success with ‘visible air technology,’ sneakerheads have fallen in love with futuristic sneakers.
Top fashion brands like Alexander McQueen and Prada have followed this sneaker trend and created SCI-FI-looking-like sneakers and footwear.
New sneaker designers, such as Li-Ning, are pushing women’s sneakers as far as they can, transporting buyers – with their designs – to a distant future.
Sneaker designs have become so futuristic that they now look fit for a retro-futuristic fashion world, or even better, for a cyberpunk universe ruled by Mad Max and Blade Runner.
Whether it’s Raf Simons’ new Cylon-21 Runner, Maison Margiela’s Patchwork sneaker, or Vivienne Westwood’s latest ASICS collab, futuristic sneakers for women are here to stay.
15/15
Vegan Sneakers
There are almost 80 million vegans in the world right now, a figure snowballing each year.
Whether for personal health, ethical reasons, or environmental concerns, women are swapping animal products for plant-based alternatives – in fridges and wardrobes alike.
We’ve come a long way from the days when sustainable shoes meant scratchy espadrilles.
Early vegan sneakers were made of recycled plastic rescued from the oceans and post-consumer waste.
However, the latest generation of vegan sneakers – powered by a veritable buffet of plant-based materials – are competing with some of the most luxurious designer sneakers out there right now.
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Now it’s your turn…
Which one of these women’s sneakers is your favorite and why?
Of all women’s sneakers presented here, which one is the most versatile?
How about the most sustainable pair? Or, the most stylish one?
Are there any other sneakers for women you’d like to add to this list?
Please leave your comments below!
