10 Must-Have Sneakers for Every Man’s Wardrobe: The Ultimate Guide
There is a lot to tell about a man from his shoes! Sneakers are wardrobe essentials that a man, especially the gen-next fashionistas, cannot do without! The current sneaker trend cycle might be all about clogs, Velcro straps, and high-tops, but fun as they might be, they keep zipping in & out of style.
Creating your own show wardrobe is a blend of crazy colors and styles -while also retaining the classics to keep you in good stead for several years to come. We have, thus, curated a list of the must-have sneakers for the young generation to save the day!
The Evolution of Sneakers in Men’s Fashion
The very first sneakers came into existence by Wait Webster in the 19th century. Initially, it looked quite different from what it appears now! They were referred to as Plimsolls and had thin rubber soles along with a thin material on the top. They were regarded as the preferred footwear for different types of activities.
In the modern era, sneakers are no longer worn only for sports activities. Amongst the millennials and Gen-Zs, they have become fashion staples. Nowadays, sneakers express individuality and self-identity much more than any other fashion accessory. As you shop for contemporary sneakers, you come across an array of designs, colors, and styles to choose from. Worn by fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, and fitness freaks alike, modern sneakers continue to revolutionize the footwear industry.
Why Every Man Needs a Sneaker Collection
Unlike other pairs of footwear, the right pair of sneakers can make you feel on cloud nine from the moment you put your feet on. It is time to say goodbye to pinching shoes and any other pain points as you welcome utmost relaxation, pleasure, and style at your feet with modern sneakers.
Some more reasons to invest in a good pair of sneakers for your wardrobe are:
- Cool in more ways
- Imparting a boost for all your activities
- A stylish pair for every occasion
Top Picks for Classic Sneakers Every Man Should Own
Over the past few years, the trend of collecting trendy sneakers has transformed from niche passion to a global phenomenon. Sneakers have now become the ‘go-to’ footwear choice for style-conscious individuals across the globe. Here are some of the must-have sneaker options you can consider stocking up in your closet:
- The Classic White Sneaker
A timeless white-classic style will never get boring! The sleek appearance and unintended nature of a white sneaker enable them to be dressed up or down for all occasions. In turn, this allows you to play around with your look without any fear. As you are buying a pair of white sneakers, keep it simple. For instance, a top-quality white tennis sneaker with subtle branding and minimal detailing is something you could look for.
As far as the overall style is concerned, try pairing up white sneakers with a simple white t-shirt and straight-fit denim or trousers for your casual ensemble. Accentuate your look by tucking in your tee and making sure that your bottoms finish right above the ankle.
- The Athletic Sneaker
Designed for practicality and performance, a pair of athletic sneakers delivers maximum support, flexibility, cushioning, and aesthetics at the same time. When it comes to investing in a pair of athletic sneakers, you can think of running shoes with responsive soles and breathable upper. For instance, you can also regard basketball shoes for improved traction and ankle support.
When it comes to styling them, you can pair them with shorts, leggings, and athletic clothes for your perfect gym look. You can also adopt the athleisure trend by combining them with sweatpants, joggers, or a graphic tee for a relaxed and fashionable look.
- The Designer Sneaker
Leading luxury brands and fashion houses have accelerated the concept of sneakers. Through their various collaborations and new line-ups, leading brands deliver high-end models featuring premium materials, innovative design elements, and a hefty price tag. Designer sneakers are high in demand not only for their overall functionality but also for the social symbol.
With a pair of designer sneaker, you can allow the footwear to serve as the focal point of attention. You can do so by pairing them with simple outfits like a plain t-shirt, tailored shirts, or a black ensemble. You can also enhance your casual look by pairing the same with a bomber jacket or a classic denim jacket.
- The High-Top Sneaker
Sitting above your ankles, these modern sneakers deliver a bold statement wherever you go. The best part is that these footwear pieces are available in a myriad of designs, styles, and colors for you to choose from. For instance, classic basketball silhouettes or Converse sneakers are perfect examples of high-top sneakers that emanate a sense of relaxation, cool vibes, and functionality throughout.
For maximum vogue, pair these cool sneakers with joggers, skinny jeans, or cargo pants for a laid-back vibe. Channelize your inner trend by pairing these cool shoes with a casual dress or skirt, creating balance with a tucked-in shirt or a cropped top.
How to Style Sneakers
In case you are wondering, your casual pair of sneakers have much more to do than regular gym visits these days! While they are flirty and casual fashion accessories, you can also come across purpose-built designs like sportswear, athletic sneakers, and much more. From sports to red carpet to daily lifestyle, modern sneakers serve as an expression of your personal identity.
Now that you have selected your favorite pair, it is time to effectively pair them with your wardrobe. Here are some styling cues:
- The Basic Classics
Canvas kicks, chucks, or lows, whatever you refer to them, the basic classic sneakers are the most versatile pieces out there. They work excellently with chinos, denim, or even shorts of all colors and sorts. On top, your best bet can be gingham shirts, printed t-shirts, or even a blazer for a professional look. Some more tips are:
- Best suited for the younger generation
- Keep for street or casual fashion only
- Mix with a slim, relaxed, or skinny chino or denim
- Luxury Sneakers
These classic specimens have made the trend of sneakers jump from casual footwear to smart casuals without feeling as if they belong to a teenage boy. You can put them on with tailored trousers, chinos, or slim denim.
Do not put them on with shorts. On top, polo t-shirts, smart shirts, and basic shirts are all impressive options. For a distinct appearance, you can choose a shirt with a knit tie. Some more tips are:
- Be extra careful with suede
- Avoid wearing them too often
- Start with black and other basic colors
- opt for brighter pairs for the summer season
- Sports Sneakers
It is time for sneakerheads to unite! Gen-Z started the sneaker revolution we are witnessing today. Superstars, 95s, and Jordans are some of the on-trend, street-going styles that simply pop with color. The idea behind classic sports sneakers is to come across a pair that complements your style while offering an extra-edgy look.
Loose t-shirts, tapered-fit jeans, and casual outerwear best complement a pair of sports sneakers. You can pair them up with shorts or chinos for a relaxed summer look. The ultimate key is to create a balance between casual citizen and hip-hop artist looks. Some more tips are:
- When it gets warm, take out your khaki chinos
- Match colors if you can
- Find a few basic styles and stick to them
Care and Maintenance
Some essential tips to take care of your favorite sneakers are:
- Cleaning White Sneakers
After some period of regular use, dust and grime can settle in nook & corner of your sneakers. Firstly, the sole becomes discolored and dirty, especially if it is your classic white sneakers. You can invest in a dedicated sneaker cleaning agent to clean them up effectively. Search for cleaning products that work well on suede, leather, and textile sneakers.
- Freshening Up Your Sneakers
Depending on the condition and material, you can use different products. For instance, if you use pigmented cream, the leather surface will be recolored and marks covered. In case you need to retouch suede materials, you can consider covering the sole edge with masking tape if that is a different shade than the upper.
- Protecting Your Sneakers
If you have smooth leather sneakers, reliable shoe cream will offer maximum protection. However, if you have suede footwear, you can consider spaying your shoes with a waterproofing spray for the best outcomes.
Conclusion
Elevate your wardrobe with the best sneakers. With a myriad of options to choose from, you can choose the best pair depending on your choice, the ongoing trend, and personal preference.
FAQs
- How many pairs of sneakers should a man own?
Whether or not you are a footwear enthusiast, you should still own at least 6 pairs of sneakers of different styles. In addition to specialized athletic shoes, you should maintain around 5 pairs of sneakers for different occasions.
- Can sneakers be worn with formal attire?
Sneakers are timeless additions to your footwear collection. You can pair them with a number of outfits to create innovative looks. Thus, pairing your favorite sneakers with formal attire works well for semi-formal meetings or a casual day out with friends.
- How often should I replace my sneakers?
Depending on your level of care and maintenance, you can consider replacing current sneakers when they start showing signs of wearing out. You can also replace them if you feel discomfort in them.
- What is the best way to clean sneakers?
The best sneaker cleaning regiment will depend on the material of the footwear. However, a mixture of plain water and shoe cleaning agents will do a great job every now & then.
- Are designer sneakers worth the investment?
As you invest in a pair of designer or luxury sneakers, they are worth the investment, given their overall durability and quality. Mostly, designer sneakers are signature pieces that are high on demand amongst sneakerheads.
