Very rarely am I caught not wearing a pair of cool white sneakers. I have plenty of boots and flats in my collection, but sneakers will always be my go-to if I’m in a rush to get out the door.
While new and trendy sneakers will always have a piece of my heart, the real superheroes in my shoe collection are my best white sneakers. I have several that I wear on a near-constant rotation; others I have reserved as my specific work sneakers. When one bites the dust, I obsess over finding the perfect replacement. With nearly two decades of expert sneaker shopping under my belt, I’ve rounded up a few of the coolest and best white sneakers for you to get your hands on in 2024. Shop them now, wear them on repeat.
What to Look For in White Sneakers
Start at the beginning: What should you look for in the best white sneakers?
- If it’s a canvas, retro-inspired pick that you’re after, consider brands like Superga or Converse.
- If you’re on the hunt for the best white athletic sneaker, sports-oriented brands like Nike or Adidas might be a better fit.
- If you’re searching for the best designer sneakers that happen to come in a shade of white, consider brands like Golden Goose or Chloé.
- Finally, if you just need to find the best slip-on sneakers that you can get in and out of with ease, iconic brands like Vans have you covered.
After getting a sense of the all brands carrying white sneakers, consider which styles are trending or popular right now. While chunky sneakers were once the go-to's among fashion insiders, a slimmer silhouette has become prominent for 2024. “There’s certainly a movement toward more nostalgic styles in the sneaker market as a whole and It-items are being deemed by celebrities like Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber,” Kendall Becker, fashion and beauty trends editor at Trendalytics, tells Marie Claire.
"I’m happy to see some of the bulky dad sneakers are being swapped for cleaner, more minimal shapes," adds stylist Ariel Tunnell, who favors the Adidas Samba, Isabel Marant's Beth Sneaker, and the Veja Campo for a pop of color. "They always look polished and chic and sophisticated."
Here’s to securing the most versatile shoe in your collection, bar none. (And before they arrive, make sure you know how to clean your white sneakers.)
- Best Overall White Sneakers: Sam Edelman Ethyl Low Top Sneaker
- Best Affordable White Sneakers: Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneakers
- Best Sparkly White Sneakers: Golden Goose Ball Star Low Top Sneaker
- Best Low-Profile White Sneakers: Cariuma OCA Low-Top Canvas Sneakers
- Best Designer Sneakers: Chloé Nama Mixed Media Platform Sneakers
- Best Athletic White Sneakers: On Cloud 5 Sneaker
The Best White Sneakers
Best Overall White Sneakers
It might sound like a given that a pair of white sneakers is, well, all white, but this pair from Sam Edelman is true to its title. There is no hint of any other color, right down to the detailing. A few other things to love? They’re available in half-sizes, are priced at under $100, and run true-to-size. Reviewers say they’re comfortable for all-day wear, require no breaking-in, and can be dressed up or down depending on the situation.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes 4-12; Runs true-to-size; No break-in period; Good for wider feet.
Cons: Some reviewers found them to be stiffer in the ankles.
Customer Review: "I have been researching all leather white sneakers for months. I had a vision in my head and these fit that vision perfectly! I have had them for a month or so and I wear them every chance I get. I wear them with everything. They are perfect for spring. I wear them with or without socks. They do not rub at all and never did from day one. They were a bit stiff when I first put them on, but they are very soft and broken in right now. I tied the laces underneath and wear them as slip-ons. I have actually machine-washed them too (with blankets). They washed up so nice. There are inserts inside that I removed after washing to help them dry out. The inserts are very squishy and comfortable as well. I love these sneakers. I really really do." – Nordstrom
Best Sporty White Sneakers
A-List celebrities and fashion insiders like Ariana Grande and Gigi Hadid live in their white Reebok sneakers. This affordable pair has close to 6,000 five-star ratings on Amazon backing up its appeal. They come in two white versions, each with slightly different detailing, and are made with an EVA midsole for comfort points. You can wear them to the gym or just when you’re running errands, thanks to the supportive and lightweight design.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Runs true-to-size; Comfortable after hours of wear; Easy to clean.
Cons: Some reviewers say they run on the narrow side.
Customer Review: "I’m not a fan of ordering shoes online but these did not disappoint. They are true to size and have a nice almost memory foam sole which was a nice surprise. My food is a tad wide so they did make my toes hurt a bit the first couple times I wore them but now they’ve been broken in and feel fine. You can wear them with just about anything! If you’re on the fence, get them!" – Amazon
Best Classic Adidas White Sneakers
Marie Claire's Associate Director of Social Media, Lucia Tonelli, fondly remembers picking up a new pair of these Adidas Superstars every year as a kid. "While I may not have had much say in my shoe choices back then, there’s a reason why we went with this style year after year: They’re perennially stylish, wholly comfortable, and as versatile as they gets," she says. "I still rock Superstars to this day, reaching for them anytime I need an easy-to-slide-on shoe that goes with basically every outfit.”
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Has a cushioned insole; No break-in period; Good for wider feet.
Cons: The brand notes that they run a half-size large; Some reviewers with higher arches found them uncomfortable.
Customer Review: "The shoes look very elegant both for streetwear and something more formal, the only thing that is too big so I recommend buying a size less." – Adidas
These woven all-white Nama sneakers from Chloé are everywhere right now. When Marie Claire's Style Director, Sara Holzman, first reviewed them way back in 2021, she dubbed them a "step ahead." Ever since then, they’ve been a mainstay on the feet of A-listers like Katie Holmes. Available in tons of colors, including this all-white version, they're crafted from 40 percent recycled materials. The webbing design is made from 100 percent recycled nylon, 100 percent recycled polyester, and 100 percent recycled cotton.
Customer Review: "I spent 2 weeks in Europe and wore these shoes every single day. Walked miles and up stairs all day & never got foot pains. If you’re debating whether to get these shoes… get them. I NEVER write reviews, but I had to get on here and preach about these shoes!!" – Nordstrom
Best White Sneakers With a Pop of Color
Tunnell says you can never go wrong with a Veja sneaker. This minty color is unexpected but still neutral for everyday wear. They come in US sizes 4 through 11—with no half-sizes, sadly—and in seven other colors. They're made using chrome-free leather on the upper for all-day comfort with a supportive rubber sole.
Pros; Made using chrome-free leather; comes in sizes four through 11; Require no break-in period.
Cons: Don't come in half-sizes; Some reviewers said they run big; Available in EU sizes which require a conversion.
Customer Review: "Just walked around Europe in these for two weeks and never got blisters! So comfortable. The kaki color goes with everything and I like how it’s a more subtle color than the black. The first few times I wore them, they felt very stiff but don’t give up on them! After a few wears, they feel like they were made for me." – Nordstrom
Best Party-Ready White Sneakers
Spring for a pair of glittery white Golden Goose sneakers if you want a shoe that's dressy with everyday wearability. Slightly ‘80s-inspired, this pair of sneakers require a little bit of breaking in from my personal experience, but are supremely comfortable once they're worn-in. Shop them in European sizes 35 (a typical size 5) through a 42 (a typical size 12) now. Plus, the glitter doesn’t fade as you wear them.
Pros: Comes in sizes up to a 12; Has a cushioned footbed; Can be dressed up and down.
Cons: Don't come in half-sizes.
Customer Review: "These sneakers are incredible. Comfortable right out of the box. A very flattering look for every outfit. Only whole sizes so size up if you are in between. You won't regret this purchase." – Nordstrom
Best Classic Nike White Sneakers
The Nike Air Force 1 is a legend in white sneakers. They’re priced at just over $100, are available in women's size 5 through 12, and remain a best-seller after decades on the market. They wear beautifully over time and are supremely comfortable without needing any breaking-in. This is the only pair of sneakers that I’ve personally purchased over and over again without fail—they’re simply one of the best.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a 12; Lightweight feel; Runs true-to-size; No break-in period.
Cons: Some reviewers say they run narrow.
Customer Review: "I have always been a Nike Air Force 1 fan! They’re one of my favorite sneakers. I believe they run a little big so I always go 1/2 a size down. Overall very comfortable and cute." – Nordstrom
Marie Claire Fashion Editor Lauren Tappan tracked down a pair of stylish white walking shoes, in the form of Nike Air Max 90s, when she first moved to New York City. "After browsing various shops on 5th Avenue, I finally came across the Nike store and noticed a pair of Air Max 90s. I was instantly drawn to their versatile appeal, and when I tried them on, I felt as though I was walking on clouds (thanks to the ultra-soft cushioning)," she says. "I bought them without hesitation, and haven’t looked back since."
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a size 12; Has a cushioned insole.
Cons: Runs a half-size small.
Customer Review: "Amazing attention to detail was put into these shoes and it shows! Comfortable as could ever be. Love the pink and white color. Just the perfect amount of pink to be girly but not too “out there”! Definitely order half a size up though." – Nike
Best White Canvas Sneakers
When I was in high school, my friends and I literally used to collect pairs of Superga sneakers. While my other friends always loved the brighter or patterned pairs, I always went back to the classic white sneakers—and they’re still in my collection now, albeit a more modern pair. I’ve worn this very pair over and over, down until the rubber sole has more than a few holes in it. They still fit into my wardrobe as it has changed over the years.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Runs true-to-size; No break-in period; Great for all seasons.
Cons: The canvas material can be hard to clean.
Customer Review: "These shoes are classic. Great for every season of the year because they go with any outfit. A staple item for every girls wardrobe" – Nordstrom
Best High-Top Leather White Sneaker
Presenting the only high-tops in my shoe collection. I wear them all the time because of how versatile they are: They look great with either long dresses, trousers, or a pair of cropped jeans. I keep mine slightly unlaced at the top to make for easier putting on and taking off, but they're otherwise a perfect high-top sneaker. I’ve found that the leather softens as you wear them but that they can be a little tough to get on at first. However, they require little to no other breaking in.
Pros: Comes in sizes up to a 12; Comes in half-sizes; Runs true-to-size; No break-in period.
Cons: Some reviewers said they can be stiff.
Customer Review: "These shoes were exactly what I was looking for. They look great with leggings and have a retro feel. I don’t mind the exposed foam on the tongue but I knew it had that when I bought them. They are hard to get on but I think that will get better once broken in. I normally wear a 9.5 in Nike and that’s what I got, no issues with sizing." – Nordstrom
These under-$100 white canvas sneakers from Cariuma are perennial best sellers. With over 16,500 glowing five-star reviews, they're the epitome of easy, affordable summer footwear. They come in women’s sizes 5 through 13 (including half sizes) and in many, many other colors besides this classic all-white version. You can also shop them in four different fabrications: suede, leather, canvas, and a "mixed" version.
Reviewers say they're supremely comfortable even after hours of wear and that they run true to size. Marie Claire Contributing Editor Katherine J. Igoe also says notes that they're high quality and easy to clean. More importantly, "[T]hey just go with everything and look sleek. I can wear them with cutoff denim in the summer and my widest, longest trousers in the winter (the toe box is nice and roomy, too, so I can walk for a loooong time in them). The dream!"
Pros: Comes in four fabrications; Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a 13; Runs true-to-size; Made from organic cotton canvas; Comfortable after long periods of wear.
Cons: Some reviewers said the sole can feel heavy.
Customer Sizing: "I love these shoes! They are comfortable and fit perfectly. I have high arches and they support my arch. I wear a size 5.5 and its always hard to find my size. Thank you Cariuma! I will definitely be a repeat customer." – Cariuma
Best Low-Profile White Sneakers
Adidas’ Samba sneakers are, undoubtedly, one of the most popular sneakers of the year thanks to cosigns from A-listers like Kaia Gerber, Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, and more. This white pair is near-constantly sold out but are well worth setting the reminder for. Like many of Adidas’s casual sneaker styles, they run large.
PSA: if you have a smaller foot, I recommend looking for a pair from the kid’s section. However you choose to buy them, they go with just about everything in your closet and don’t leave your feet aching after days of wear.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a 13.5; Good for wide or slim feet; Easy to dress up or down.
Cons: Some reviewers say there is not enough arch support; Can sell out quickly.
Customer Review: "Super stylish. Getting loads of compliments on them. Quite narrow fitting so if I was to buy it again I’d size up." – Adidas
Best Machine-Washable White Sneakers
"I love these sneakers from eco-friendly accessories brand Rothy's," Marie Claire Digital Director Jenny Hollander says. "Unlike some stiff sneakers that never really relax into the shape of your foot—you know the kind I'm talking about—the Lace Up Sneaker feels like a slipper, albeit a structured one. These sneakers are versatile, machine-washable, and feature subtle, classic detailing—the Rothy's blue stripe on the lace and heel is such a cute touch. I get compliments on these shoes whenever I wear them (I have them in Bright White, though I've been eyeing the Biscuit).”
Pros: Machine-washable; Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a 13; Sustainably-made.
Cons: Some reviewers wished they had more support.
Customer Review: "These are the most comfortable shoes I own! They were a little snug on the width side but as they were broken in they’re the most comfy! They do have a nice stylish look to them as well." – Rothy's
Best White Running Shoe
These all-white sneakers from On have sold out time and time again while racking up hundreds of glowing reviews across the internet (and garnering celebrity support from the likes of Zendaya while they're at it). They're hailed as being lightweight, supportive, and comfortable even after hours of wear. A "no laces" slip-on design makes them a breeze to take on and off. You can shop them in sizes 5 through 11 (including half-sizes) and they run true-to-size.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Lightweight feel; Breathable material; Have a slip-on design.
Cons: Not the best choice for people with higher arches.
Customer Review: “These runners went on a 3.5 mile hike and lived up to their name. Were comfortable and did not give me any pain at all. Highly recommend I own now three pairs.” – Nordstrom
Best Chunky White Sneakers
There was a period last summer when you couldn't scroll through Instagram without seeing ten pairs of New Balance 550s, let alone find them in stock online or in a store. Now, though, the hyper-fixation seems to have cooled enough that non-obsessive sneakerheads can get their hands on a pair for face value. This all-white option is currently in stock at Net-a-Porter in every size. They’re chunkier than most other options on this list, but work just as well with dresses or trousers.
Pros: No break-in period; Comfortable after hours of wear; Good for wide feet.
Cons: Runs large; Some reviewers found them heavy.
Customer Review: "The best shoes I've worn in a long time! They are beyond comfortable and soft to your feet! Very simple and stylish and very clean look." – New Balance
Best Designer White Sneakers
"Never have I ever been more obsessed with a shoe than I am with these Chloe sneakers," Beauty Editor Samantha Holender says. "In fact, I love them so much that when my original pair started looking a little rough from daily wear, I went out and bought a new set. The sweet scallop detailing gives the sneaker a feminine touch and sets them apart the wide sea of white sneakers out there. I wear them with leggings or workout wear when I'm running errands, but also love pairing them with jeans and a blazer or cute sweater. They're truly the most versatile shoe in my wardrobe."
Customer Review: "I normally wear 8.5- 9, I ordered a 9 and it was perfect. They felt stiff when I first put them on, but after one wear they were broke it. These are my new favorites." – Bloomingdale's
Best Slip-On White Sneakers
These all-time classic white sneakers are essential if you're on the hunt for an easy, goes-with-everything sneaker that will last. They have hundreds of five-star reviews on Nordstrom's site because they're so versatile. However, reviewers do note that they run about half a size large.
The thick and cushy rubber sole will last despite daily wear, while the thick canvas material won't rub if you're wearing thin socks. You can shop them now in women's sizes 5 through 11 and in three colorways, including the iconic checkerboard option.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Come in sizes up to a 12; Affordably-priced; Easy slip-on design; Long-lasting.
Cons: Runs half-size large.
Customer Review: “I have always owned vans and I love them! I generally wear a 9 in sneakers but wear an 8.5 in Vans. They do stretch with wear.” – Nordstrom
"For classic, retro, almost Nike-esque sneakers (that are ethically made!), my go-to is this Sezane pair," Contributing Editor Katherine J. Igoe says. "All of the brand’s shoes are well-made and comfortable, but their sneakers are a cut above any other pair I own, in terms of design and fit. (As a plus, they look just different enough from other sneaker brands that I’m constantly getting asked where they’re from.) You can also get them with subtle pink, blue, or green accents if plain white isn’t your thing."
Pros: Can be dressed up or down; Runs true-to-size; Made from 100 percent cowhide leather.
Cons: The only available half-size is a 6.5.
"I love this Isabel Marant Beth sneaker for another alternative to the Samba," says Tunnell. "The velcro straps make it unique and special and just a little bit more visually interesting."
Available in EU sizes 35 through 42 (without half-sizes, sadly), they're a timeless option that requires next-to-no work. The leather calfskin upper wears them in beautifully over time, and the gum sole and navy blue accents make them the perfect work sneakers.
Customer Review: "The most comfortable sneakers I have ever owned! Keep in mind that the foot bed is likely meant to be worn with either a very thin nylon sock or barefoot. The fabric on the inside is made to absorb sweat though I always make sure my feet are clean before I wear them. The foot bed truly moldes to your foot and they are not like any traditional sneaker. Very high-quality very luxurious and feeling very chic and has a mini heel which most Marrant sneakers do. Got them for sale which made them completely irresistible In the moment I put my foot in them I thought oh my gosh! Heavenly!" – Nordstrom
Meet The Experts
Experienced in luxury editorial, trend forecasting, and strategic consulting, Kendall is currently the Fashion & Beauty Trends Editor at Trendalytics as well as a freelance writer for Refinery29, The Zoe Report, LuisaViaRoma, WhoWhatWear, and Coveteur. Prior, she was the Assistant Fashion Director for Women’s RTW at Bloomingdale’s and contributed to global trend forecasting agencies. Plus, she’s a fashion media personality and expert that’s been featured in ABC, Cheddar News, Harper’s BAZAAR, GQ, Bustle, Sourcing Journal, Brides, and Vice.
Ariel Tunnell is a Los Angeles-based Stylist and Costume Designer who originally hails from Oklahoma. After receiving a degree in Television and Film Studies from St. John’s University, she realized her real passion was for the clothing worn on screen and the actors who bring these costumes to life. Having worked in various aspects of the entertainment industry in both New York City and Los Angeles, she found a way to bring her love of pop culture and fashion together by dressing today’s top celebrities. Ariel has worked for the biggest pop stars in the world - on everything from red carpets, award-winning music videos, world tours, commercials to major award shows. Her current client roster is full of immensely talented comediennes from all your favorite TV shows.
Stay In The Know
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Julia Marzovilla is the Fashion E-Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers everything from the latest beauty and fashion launches and sales to celebrity outfits and news. She also creates shopping guides that span every vertical on the site. Prior to joining the Marie Claire team, she contributed similar shopping stories to sites such as Bustle, InStyle, The Zoe Report, Who What Wear, and STYLECASTER. In her spare time, Julia can be found creating shopping guides for all of her friends, spending too much money on yet another pair of black boots, and cooking in her far-too-small kitchen.
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