When it comes to footwear, we know one thing for certain: comfort prevails. That's why, even outside of the weekend, you'll find us in trainers, trainers and more trainers. What brand wins the prize for best kicks depends on whether you're looking for retro appeal or technical prowess.
But to rewind ever-so-slightly, if you're only wearing your trainers to the gym - or the commute - you honestly don't know what you're missing. Staking a claim on our 'on-duty' footwear rotation, the best trainers are an effortless go-to for nearly every occasion. Taking you seamlessly from home to the office to the pub, they add a touch of zero-effort cool to almost any outfit. Want to add some bite to a blossom-sprinkled dress? Try an everyday pair of New Balance 550s. Looking for the perfect pair of shoes for your 'nice top and jeans' combo? It's got to be Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66, the ultimate cool trainers for now.
We've got the revival of the dad trainer, the new hype of the Nike Dunk, as well as a trip back to trainer classics like the Adidas Samba and New Balance 550s. From styles that have been around forever to reinvented classics, the best trainers are worthy of investment for that level of power-comfort we’re seeking.
What are the best trainers to buy now?
The style set seems to agree that anything the classic trainer brands and cult sportswear giants put out is the go-to. Bella has been repeat-wearing her Adidas Sambas; Hailey Bieber loves Salomon, New Balance 2002R and Nike Jordan 1; Rihanna's a fan of Vans.
A lot of the biggest trainer brands also do a brisk trade in designer collabs. See: Miu Miu x New Balance, which was first spotted on the catwalk in October 2021, Adidas x Gucci, Asics x Kiko Kostadinov, we could keep going because there are a lot of cool trainers out there (Adidas Originals x Wales Bonner also gets a mention...). And amongst Gen Z, Rick Owens Drkshdw Black Sneakers, Maison Mihara Yasuhiros and Lanvin's Curb Sneakers have been reigning all across socials.
Best Trainers At A Glance:
Best Trainers for Activities: Lululemon Chargefeel 2 Low Workout Shoe
Best Designer Trainers: Lanvin Curb Sneakers
Best Classic Trainer: Nike Airforce 1
Best New Comer: Cristian Zerotre Calipso Rhombus Shoes
Anything these brands put out are great investments because they're guaranteed to keep coming back around. The popularity spike for cool trainers has led to a buzz around using more sustainable materials in the market. Brands such as Veja, SAYE and Allbirds are working hard to reduce their footprints as much as possible by using low-carbon materials like Tencel Lyocell.
When it comes to styling, anything goes. Cool trainers are a wardrobe staple all year round – perfectly paired with sharp tailoring, baggy jeans and of course, your friend and mine, loungewear. The future, at least where your footwear is concerned, has never felt so comfy.
What are the most comfortable trainers for running or gym?
When it comes to finding the most comfortable trainers, it’s all about the perfect fit for your feet. Look for shoes with ample cushioning, soft midsoles, and supportive features. Brands like Nike, Adidas, New Balance are known for their comfort-focused designs, offering a range of options to suit different foot shapes and preferences. To find the ideal pair, consider visiting stores to try before you buy. Additionally, reading reviews and trying recommendations is always a good shout.
How do I find hype trainers?
Finding popular trainers can be quite a task as they're gone in a blink and are often resold for twice or even triple the amount. Renee Washington our resident trainer enthusiast and Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant, said, ‘You can stay on top of the sneaker scene by following fitness influencers, athletes, and brands on social media. You’d also be surprised at how much shoes you can find at boutiques online or in your area. I use sneaker release apps like Nike, SNKRS and Adidas for updates on new drops. And if I miss out on drops I shop on resale platforms like StockX or Goat. Always be ready to act fast – hype trainers sell out quickly! Delay is dangerous.'
How did we choose the best trainers?
Team Grazia has pretty much made a career out of being obsessed with trainers. Seriously. We all have a favourite pair that we can't spot wearing, whether it's something with retro appeal from Adidas, something techy from Salomon, or something that combines a little bit of both from New Balance, Nike or Asics. We based our selection on comfortability, style, and versatility.
SHOP: The Best Trainers 2024
www.luisaviaroma.com
Art or a shoe...or a bit of both? If you have your eye on these we recommend sizing down. These are great for casual dates.
www.ssense.com
The original Rick Owen DRKSHDW was a hit and this new style is due to fly off shelves (they're already on my wish list). This a shoe you need to have in your rotation.
30%
www.cettire.com
This is shoe has the streetwear community in a chokehold. They are nice pick for those who want a nice pop of colour.
www.cristianzerotre.com
These are a popular pick for those who love the look of Lanvins and Rick Owens in one. The chunky heel adds that extra bit of pizzaz! Perfect for more dressy occasions where a boot might be neede.
www.adidas.co.uk
This is one of Adidas' best shoes, its earned itself the title of fashion editor's favourite. They work well with jeans, skirts, dresses...you name it.
www.matchesfashion.com
Naturally, this collab sold out fairly quickly but, miraculously, there are a couple of sizes left in these trainers. You can also sign up for alerts to be notified as to when they're back in stock, the Matches site says they're coming soon.
www.fenwick.co.uk
Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66, with its effortless retro vibe, continues to be one of the most popular trainer styles of the moment. Try yours with a denim midi skirt and white T-shirt.
www.salomon.com
Salomon's tech trainers have found fans in Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Emrata and Rita Ora.
www.adidas.co.uk
For more than five decades and counting, Adidas Stan Smiths have remained one of the best-selling trainers. This pair shows off a fresh redesign as part of the brand's commitment to using only recycled polyester by 2024.
www.converse.com
You can't beat a pair of black trainers for versatility. Fitted with added cushioning compared to the classic Converse High-Top, these support your every step for a comfortable day of wear. The Comme Des Garçon collab is a popular pick too.
www.adidas.co.uk
Yep, they're back in. The Superstar has been a must-have silhouette in the trainer industry for years and is now a lifestyle staple for 80s streetwear enthusiasts.
axelarigato.com
Quickly establishing themselves as a cult-favourite trainer, Axel Arigato perfectly merges components of classic athletic shoes with retro detailing inspired by '90s styles.
Taking inspiration from the human body and '90s athletics aesthetics, Nike's Air Max 95 mixes unbelievable comfort with heritage style.
www.newbalance.co.uk
New Balance will never go out of style because it really upholds the core principles of comfort, fit and innovation and is built to last.
The 'It' trainer of the moment, we present the Nike Dunk Low. Available in a variety of colourways, it's a silhouette you need to get your hands on.
www.asics.com
If you're looking for a sporty dad sneaker, look no further than Asics. I can't go a scroll on my FYP without seeing them.
www.lululemon.co.uk
Just like its activewear, Lululemon's Chargefeel trainers are exceptionally good.
This Nike silhouette is a classic that you need in your everyday rotation.
Renee Washington, Grazia's Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie.