Sneakers are one of the few items that have the ability to instantly transform a drab or boring outfit. If you aren’t a fan of bright colors and patterns but don’t want to only wear shades of black and white, sneakers can add that subtle bit of flair you are looking for.
Converse NZ clearly has some classics; Nike and Adidas are responsible for some of the most popular shoes of all time. Here are 11 sneakers you need to buy right now to take your wardrobe to the next level.
Converse Chuck Taylor
Chuck Taylor’s have been popular since the 80s when some of the biggest basketball stars of all time started wearing them on the court. They quickly became the most popular sneaker on earth, being worn by rockstars, athletes, skateboarders, and festival-goers.
They are incredibly comfortable, built to last, and easily one of the most versatile pairs of shoes you will ever own.
Adidas Stan Smith
Adidas has been making sneakers for decades and has produced some of the most recognizable silhouettes in the game. Their Stan Smiths are simple yet iconic and now come in a massive range of colors and styles.
There have also been numerous collaborations with other brands and the Stan’s, with one of the best being the black and white Mickey Mouse pairs.
Nike Air Force 1
There probably isn’t a more famous pair of sneakers in the streetwear world than the Air Force 1’s. Worn by everyone from famous rappers to moms, the Air Force 1’s are the epitome of simple style and comfort.
They are loved so much that many have never worn anything else. Dr. Dre, world-renowned rapper and producer, famously never wears the same pair of Air Force 1’s twice, slipping on a new pair every day.
ASICS Gel
ASICS and New Balance have both been regarded as “dad shoes” for many years. Not only is this the furthest thing from the truth, but nowadays, you can find a style of Asics Gels that will suit any taste and style.
The Gel’s are not only very good looking but are also one of the best activewear shoes on the market. You can wear them on hikes and to the gym, and your feet and ankles will thank you for it.
Vans Old Skool
Vans have always played the role of being the affordable pair of classics, sitting below Nike and Adidas. However, their Old Skool model has become equally, if not more popular than its contemporaries, such as the Nike SBs.
Vans have also gone headfirst into collaborations, creating incredible sneakers with the likes of Supreme, Golf Wang, The North Face, and Toy Story.
Jordan 1
The Jordan 1’s are the shoes that every sneakerhead knows and loves. The iconic design was first made famous by the great Michael Jordan and has been re-colored and reimagined every single year since.
Jordan 1’s come in a massive variety of colorways, whether that be the classic Chicago Bulls red and black, the famous orange and black Broken Backboard’s, or the lime green Gatorade-inspired pair. There is a pair of Jordan 1’s for everyone.
Nike Air Max
The Nike Air Max has had a cult following since the day it first debuted. The classic shape that features a chunky heel are some of the most comfortable shoes you will ever wear, and like most Nike shoes, there is a never-ending plethora of colors and patterns.
The Air Max’s are also great for almost any occasion and can be worn with anything from jeans, to a dress, a suit, to the beach, or to a party. Their versatility is almost unmatched by any other shoe to exist.
Yeezy Boost
Yeezy’s have had a reputation of being too overpriced and unnecessary. However, the Boost 350s have broken that mold, and while they are still tricky to find, they are much more affordable nowadays and also well worth the money.
The Boosts are also famously ridiculously comfortable and can be worn out on the town or at the gym. They are made for any occasion, and the multiple colors available means there is a pair for any wardrobe style.
New Balance 990
Like the ASICS, the New Balance 990’s have quickly emerged as a must-have pair of sneakers over the past couple of years. They are simple and don’t cover themselves in frills, but still check every box that you are looking for in a pair of shoes.
Not to mention the fact that the retro New Balances that were the definition of “dad shoe” has made a comeback in a big way, and can be found everywhere from streetwear events to the red carpet and runway.
Adidas Superstar
Made popular by the rap giants Run DMC, the Adidas Superstars are sneakers designed in the 80s that have gone through barely any changes but have been able to keep up with the competition without breaking a sweat.
While you can now find them in a multitude of colors, nothing beats the white with black Adidas stripes. Once again, they are simple and clean-looking and a must-have if you have never owned a pair before.
