The best trainers to buy: The must-have everyday sneakers right now from Adidas, Converse, Nike and more

Arguably a veteran of the trainer world, Adidas' Stan Smith silhouette was first released in 1973 and has stood the test of time for a reason. Sure, they've had countless limited-edition iterations over the years; however, the core design has changed very little.

Featuring a lace-up front (or velcro, depending on your preference), visible side vents and a distinctive coloured heel tab adorned with the Adidas logo, there's a classic colour scheme to suit every possible taste.

Sleek. Minimal. Criminally overlooked. Adidas Japan is the sort of under-the-radar icon that sneakerheads whisper about. Born in the ‘60s for the Japanese market, it's pure retro gold, low-profile silhouette, clean-as-you-like lines, and that sharply sculpted toe box that means business. A masterclass in less-is-more. And yes, it’s making a low-key comeback.

The Gazelle line was introduced in 1966 as a running and sport shoe, but it looks nothing like modern running trainer designs. It has a suede leather upper, and nowadays is available in a rainbow of colours.

However, the originals were red or blue, with white stripes across both. The Gazelle is a true Adidas icon, and these days it comes across as much more of a casual wear shoe than something designed for sports use.

You can’t talk trainers without mentioning the Air Max 1, the first to flaunt that visible air bubble, and the blueprint for everything that came after. Suede, mesh, and pure 1989 perfection, it’s the icon that launched a thousand silhouettes.

Nike’s dropped countless Air Max models since, but this one? Still the GOAT. Because when you nail it the first time, why mess with it?

Launched in ’73 as Nike’s first big basketball shoe, the Blazer swapped hardwood courts for pavements and skateparks, and it wears the transition well. High-top cut? Still sharp. Oversized Swoosh? Still bold. Exposed foam tongue? Still gloriously retro. Five decades on, it’s lost none of its charm.

The Cortez has been turning heads since ’72, one of Nike’s first running shoes, and still one of its most stylish. Bold Swoosh, low-slung shape, chunky EVA sole, it’s pure West Coast energy, with co-signs from Forrest Gump to Kendrick Lamar. You won’t be clocking miles in them anymore, but they still look fantastic.

The Authentic is where it all began. Launched in 1966 as the OG deck shoe, this is the blueprint for every Vans model that followed. Simple canvas upper, metal eyelets, flat laces, and that signature waffle outsole, no gimmicks, just pure, unfiltered style.

The Checkerboard Classic Slip-On is Vans at its most iconic. It's instantly recognisable, and this list wouldn't be complete if it were missing. With a padded collar, elastic side accents, and the brand’s signature waffle sole, it delivers all-day comfort with zero effort required; even popping them on is dead simple.

The Premium Old Skool takes the classic Vans silhouette you know and upgrades it with a refined, elevated finish. Part of Vans' premium line, this version keeps the original 1977 design DNA, low-top profile, iconic side stripe, vulcanised sole, but swaps in luxury materials, improved construction, and cleaner details.

Proof that not all collaborations are created equal. The Converse x Comme des Garçons PLAY Chuck 70 takes a streetwear staple and gives it a subtle designer twist, same vintage canvas, same rubber toe cap, but now with that unmistakable bug-eyed heart peeking out from the sidewall. This is the only collab on the list because it's grown so popular that you can buy it all year round.

The Star Player 76 Premium Canvas brings archive energy without shouting about it it boasts classic court lines, vintage Star Chevron branding, and a premium canvas upper that feels just the right side of refined. It’s sport heritage meets street-ready minimalism, and it’s criminally underrated.

The classics are classics for a reason. You’ve been able to get your hands on Converse’s Chuck Taylors since… well, since before you were born. The folks behind the design have recognised that you can mess with a good thing as much as you want, as long as you keep the things that made it great to begin with. The All-Star 70 high-top trainer marked one of the early tweaks that modernised the original, while keeping the good bits very much intact.

Built for the track, adopted by the streets. The Puma Speedcat is all about a low-profile. Originally designed for F1 pit crews, now a cult favourite for anyone chasing that ‘90s motorsport aesthetic. Slim silhouette, suede upper, race-day energy. Few trainers capture the recent shift to slim footwear quite like this one.

Straight from the terraces and back on the streets. The Puma Palermo is a retro icon with a serious ‘80s aesthetic. The gum sole, T-toe overlay, and bold colour blocking that doesn’t mess about. Originally made for the football faithful, now just as likely to be spotted at the pub as in the stands.

Another classic shoe. There are more than 50 years of history tied up in its laces. The critical thing to know about the Puma Suede is that its name has changed several times over the years. It’s been called the Puma Crack, the Clyde, the States. The last time we checked, the brand had settled on Puma Suede.

The Diadora Rally S is proof that old-school running styles never really go out of fashion. Chunky midsole, suede and mesh mix, and just enough vintage flair to keep it cool today. It’s got that laid-back Italian charm, making it perfect for anyone who wants heritage vibes without trying too hard. Classic, comfy, and quietly confident.

New Balance keeps it simple but stylish with the 475. Inspired by ‘80s running shoes, it blends suede and mesh for that perfect mix of retro and fresh. Lightweight, comfy, and versatile enough to handle the streets or the gym. If you want heritage without the hype, this one’s for you.

The Mexico 66 is what happens when heritage meets streetwear gold. First launched in ’66 (obviously), it’s got that sleek, low-profile silhouette with signature stripes that never go out of style. Whether you’re rocking retro vibes or just after an everyday classic, these are the sneakers that keep it simple and clean, much like everything Onitsuka Tiger does.

Reebok has always been a master of prioritising comfort in trainers that also look the part. If you want a shoe that you can wear day to day and look good doing so, a Reebok Club C 85 fits the bill.

The Saucony Shadow 6000 is where ‘90s running tech meets today’s street style. Chunky but sleek, with premium suede and mesh uppers, it’s built for comfort and turned up for looks. This is the kind of sneaker that works just as well on your feet as it does on the gram.

The Asics Lyte Classic nails that perfect balance between retro runner and everyday staple. Lightweight mesh and suede keep it breezy and sharp, while those signature stripes add just enough flair to stand out