Neutral Shoes Are the Key to Every Versatile Sneaker Rotation
Just as all-black and all-white sneakers are essential to a well-rounded rotation, so too are neutral sneakers — mostly thanks to their versatility with regards to styling. The beauty of neutral-toned sneakers is that, while subtle in their appearance, they don’t have to be predominantly one color. This leaves a little more wiggle room to play with and opens up a lot of possibilities — both from a brand and a model perspective.
Additionally, another advantage of neutral sneakers is in the name itself; these sneakers are incredibly versatile across different styles, situations, and even seasons. Whereas white sneakers are probably best left for the dry summer months, neutral sneakers can practically be worn all year round.
More room to play with and less of a need to adhere to a certain color means we’re almost spoiled for choice when it comes to neutral sneakers. With a never-ending list of brands, models, and designs, it can become hard to choose the right shoe for you. That’s where we come in, with our team of curators working tirelessly around the clock to make sure you don’t need to get lost in online shopping to find the best neutral sneakers.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favorites. Take a look.
The best neutral sneakers to buy online right now
Saucony x Highsnobiety Pro Grid Triumph 4
With varying shades of neutral tones decorating the upper and outsole, our collab with Saucony is dedicated to fans of comfy insoles and classic designs.
ASICS GEL-NYC
As ASICS continues to roll out new colorways of its GEL-NYC sneaker, it's becoming a rising star in the brand's orbit.
Stüssy x Nike Air Force 1 Mid 'Fossil'
Vegans and environmentalists look no further! And if you happen to be neither of those, these hemp Air Force 1’s will still make a valuable addition to your rotation.
adidas Superstar 82
The Superstar has been a certified classic since it was first released in 1969. This '82 version is deconstructed and uses thicker materials to hold its shape.
Balenciaga Track Sneakers
Balenciaga Track Sneakers are an interesting proposition when dressed in a neutral outfit. The bold, multi-layered kicks are made to turn heads, so there's an incongruity between that and an understated palette. We're here for it though, in a way it actually gives the design even more impact with the focus solely on the structure.
Salomon XT-Slate Advanced
Salomon's XT-Slate might be its most underrated silhouette. The blend of materials along the textured upper goes perfectly with its Contagrip outsole.
Nike x Off-White™ Air Jordan 4 Sail
Virgil Abloh's Nike collaborations usually feature bold palettes and in-your-face detailing, which made the July 2020 Jordan 4 Sail such a surprise. The neutral palette features signature quotation-mark detailing on the sole unit but, aside from that, it's a highly minimal design.
Mizuno Wave Rider 10
While the Wave Rider 10 is the most recent release from Mizuno, any pair from the brand's Wave Series is worth adding to your rotation.
New Balance ML610TBE
In case you haven't noticed, New Balance's 610 era is upon us. Though classics like the 550 and 990 remain timeless footwear options, the 610 is great because of its trail-ready features that excel in rough terrains.
Acne Studios Leather Low Top Sneakers
Thanks to its off-white suede and nubuck accents, these Acne Studios sneakers make for a good aesthetic choice when dressing up or down any time of the year.
Y-3 Gazelle
The tonal suede on these sneakers is so nice that Y-3 even had to add it to the midsole. Combined with the loose-hanging threads, it makes for an eye-catching neutral sneaker.
Stepney Workers Club Dellow S-Strike Canvas
The best part about SWC's sneakers is their versatility, this pair can be dressed up for smart casual settings while the chunky outsole also makes them suitable for skate sessions.
HOKA Clifton 8
If there's one shoe that's easy to wear and more comfortable than anything else in your rotation, these HOKAs take the cake.
Vans UA OG Authentic LX
Few things are better than breaking in a fresh pair of Vans to skate in but, regardless of if you skate, they're always a solid choice. The slight difference between standard and LX models includes the embroidered side stripe and all-suede upper.
New Balance BB650RGG
You could splurge on a pair of 650s from the Aimé Leon Dore collab or grab these for a fraction of the price — the choice is yours.
New Balance ML2002RE
Honestly, this is about as neutral as it gets. The only way to level up these 2002Rs would be to dye the outsole bone-colored, but it's not necessary since this colorway holds its own.
Converse Vintage Canvas Chuck 70
Talk about a classic, the Converse Chuck Taylor 70 is a bonafide, going-nowhere MVP. This colorway sees the shoe keep the iconic look that has made it a favorite of everyone from basketballers to skaters while including a heavier canvas material and advanced cushioning in the midsole that enhances comfort.
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