25 Best Sneakers for Men 2025: From Everyday Wear to High-Performance

Nike’s Air Max Dn blends a modern aesthetic with very comfortable cushioning, earning a solid 7.5/10 in our testing for everyday style and stability. In our review the shoe felt secure underfoot and looked sharp with casual outfits, but it’s a bit heavy compared with other Nike models and the breathability is only average. We found the responsiveness not as plush as more performance-focused Nikes, so it’s better as a lifestyle or casual trainer than for intense workouts. If you want bold Air Max style with comfort over speed, this is a dependable option.

Chuck Taylor All Star Highs remain a timeless closet staple—our experience shows the classic canvas silhouette pairs with almost anything and scored 8.5/10 for style and durability at an approachable price. We found the breathable canvas comfortable for everyday wear, but limited arch support and a slightly narrow fit make them less ideal for long days on your feet or wider-footed folks. The simplicity and longevity of the construction are real wins, so if you prioritize classic looks over orthotic-level support, these are hard to beat.

The Campus 00s deliver a retro vibe with premium suede and generous padding, and in our review they scored 7/10 for comfort and durability in casual wear. We found the plush lining and ventilation holes keep feet cozy and adequately cool for long walks, though the silhouette is chunkier and slightly heavier than modern slim sneakers. Forefoot width may feel narrow for some, so try them on if you prefer roomy toe space. If you want a throwback look with cushioned support, these balance style and substance well.

If you want robust everyday cushioning on a budget, the Nike Air Max SYSTM (score 7.5/10) is worth a look — in our testing the visible Nike Air unit and full-length rubber Waffle outsole deliver reliable lightweight cushioning and traction for daily wear. We found the leather-and-textile upper holds up well and breathes better than many kid-targeted shoes, though the retro aesthetic won’t suit everyone. Be aware it can run slightly large and colorways are limited, so try before you commit if possible.

The Nike Air Pegasus Wave is a comfortable, breathable option that scored 7/10 in our review thanks to its mesh, textile, and leather upper that boosts airflow during longer outings. We found it feels dependable for everyday runs and casual wear, but sizing is inconsistent — many testers recommend ordering at least a half size up — and colors may appear grayer in person than online. If you prioritize breathability and cushioned comfort, it’s a solid midrange pick.

PUMA’s RS-X sneakers blend chunky retro style with summertime-ready breathability, and during our review the mesh upper kept feet cool while the cushioned platform gave a plush ride. That said, this model scored 7.5/10 largely because the heavy, overbuilt sole and chunky platform add weight and make them less versatile for long days on foot. If you like bold, fashion-forward sneakers and don’t mind the extra heft, the RS-X is a comfortable statement shoe; just expect it to feel heavier than slimmer trainers.

The RS-X Triple is an affordable, summer-friendly sneaker with a breathable mesh upper that kept our feet cool during testing, and at $59.99 it offers strong value for casual wear. During our review we noticed the shoe feels heavier than average and the forefoot stiffness reduces flexibility, so it’s not the best choice for long walks or high-mobility activities. If you want retro styling and good ventilation for short outings, it’s fine — but expect a chunkier, less nimble ride than lighter trainers.

The Suede Classic delivers on retro style and good materials for $74.99, and during our review we found the look and comfort make it an appealing casual option. That said, it scored 6.5/10 because the suede picks up dirt easily, the shoe runs narrow for many feet, and arch support is limited, so it’s not ideal for long days on your feet. If you want a timeless, value-friendly silhouette and are OK with occasional upkeep and an insert for support, this is a solid closet staple.

If you're after a versatile, budget-friendly sneaker, the Classic AZ Shoes are an easy go-to at $67.99 that earned a solid 7/10 in our testing. We found the retro styling and durable build make them a reliable closet staple for casual days and varied outfits, but cushioning falls short for long walks and the breathability can vary by upper material. In practical terms, they’re a great value for everyday wear—just plan to rotate or add an insert if you need more long-haul comfort.

Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers remain a timeless and affordable pick at about $59.94, and they scored an 8/10 in our testing for everyday style and breathability. We found the classic canvas upper is lightweight and durable for regular wear and pairs effortlessly with many outfits, but limited arch support and quicker sole wear make them less ideal for long days on your feet or wet conditions. For a versatile, budget-friendly casual shoe that looks great, they’re hard to beat—just add an insole if you need more support.

The Nike Air Max Plus stands out with Tuned Air cushioning and a striking design, earning a 7.5/10 in our review and costing around $190. In testing we appreciated the plush, all-day comfort and snug upper that provides stability, but we also found the shoe runs slightly small and narrow and the toebox can lack long-term durability. For casual wear where bold looks and cushioning matter, it’s a strong choice—just consider sizing up and expect moderate breathability on warm days.

The New Balance 480 scored a dependable 7/10 by combining a soft full-grain leather upper with an OrthoLite insert for cushioning and moisture control at a reasonable $90. During our review we found the build offers solid durability and traction, but the model runs narrow and has pronounced arch support that may not suit everyone; some testers also noted occasional heel slippage if sizing isn’t dialed in. If you want a retro-feeling, well-made casual trainer with supportive cushioning, try these on—especially if you prefer a snug, performance-oriented profile.

If you want a sleek, motorsport-inspired sneaker, the PUMA Speedcat OG (7/10) is a great budget-friendly option — in our testing the lightweight build and clean lines make it an easy grab for casual days and driving. We found the shoe delivers on comfort, durability, and performance with solid breathability, so it works well for everyday wear and active errands. That said, the narrow last is a real caveat for wider feet, so try them on first or size accordingly to avoid pinching.

The Nike Dunk Low Retro scored a respectable 7.5/10 in our review for its premium leather look and comfy foam midsole that breaks in nicely and dresses up casual outfits. During our testing we appreciated the padded low-cut collar for day-long wear, but we also noticed premature creasing in the toe box and limited ventilation that can make them feel warm on long days. Sizing inconsistency has come up in feedback, so try both shoes on or buy from a retailer with a good return policy.

Nike Air Force 1 '07 is a dependable classic (8/10) — in our testing the timeless design, durable materials, and cushioned midsole combine for comfortable, versatile wear across many occasions. We found the leather upper and sturdy build last through regular use, though the all-white colorway shows dirt easily and the leather creases during break-in. If you want a go-to casual sneaker that looks great with most outfits, these are a strong pick; just plan for occasional cleaning and consider sizing if you need extra toe room.

The New Balance 550 White Grey is a nostalgic, premium-feel sneaker that scored 6/10 in our review—its leather upper and EVA wedge midsole deliver durability and comfortable cushioning, but the steep $378 price and limited availability temper its appeal. During our review we found the cupsole offers reliable grip and the materials feel high-end, yet the retro design won’t suit everyone and sizes can be scarce. If you’re a collector who values vintage styling and quality build, it’s a standout, but it’s less practical as an everyday buy.

Saucony’s Endorphin Speed 5 delivers the performance you expect from a high-caliber trainer and scored 8/10 in our review thanks to its lively PWRRUN PB foam that balances cushion and responsiveness. During our testing we appreciated its springy feel on tempo runs and the breathable construction kept feet cool on longer efforts. We found the midfoot sits a touch snug, so runners with wider feet may experience hotspots and should try a half size up or test before buying. Overall, it’s a dependable pick for fast training and race days when fit works for you.

ASICS’ METASPEED MD is our top-performing track shoe in this batch, earning a 9/10 for delivering an exceptionally lightweight platform that boosts speed and agility. In our testing the low weight translated to noticeably quicker turnover and reduced fatigue during intervals and race-pace work. Durability and breathability also held up well in repeated sessions, though the premium tech comes with a higher price tag that may be off-putting for casual runners. If you’re after performance-first track gains, this shoe earned its high rating in our review.

Altra’s FWD VIA brings a roomy toe box and rocker geometry that support natural toe splay and an efficient stride; in our testing that design felt comfortable on steady runs and scored 6.5/10 overall. We appreciated the engineered spacer mesh for breathability and a sleek look, but the midsole felt firmer than expected which reduces the plush cushioning some runners prefer. Some testers also noted a bulky tongue and initial snugness in the forefoot, so expect a brief break-in. If you like a stable, natural-feel ride with space up front, it’s worth trying.

The XT-WHISPER FAIRYTALE keeps the practical Quicklace system and breathable 3D open mesh we liked in other XT-WHISPER variants, earning a 6.5/10 for comfortable, easy on/off performance. During our testing the one-pull lacing made transitions seamless and the mesh delivered noticeable airflow, but ankle support felt thin and stiff for extended use and the fit runs narrow for some feet. If you want a breathable, quick-lace training shoe for short efforts or everyday errands, it’s convenient—just be cautious if you need robust ankle support.

The Nike Pegasus 41 scored 7/10 in our review by leaning into comfort and breathability — the new ReactX foam midsole gives about 13% more energy return and the engineered mesh upper feels lighter and airier than previous Pegasus iterations. We found it excels for daily runs and long miles where comfort matters, but the forefoot volume is a touch low and the shoe isn’t aimed at speed-focused training. If you want a reliable, cushioned trainer with improved bounce, this is a smart everyday running choice.

HOKA’s Cielo X1 2.0 earned its high 8.5/10 rating in our testing as a lightweight, speed-focused trainer with aggressive rocker geometry that actively propels you forward. We found the jacquard mesh upper breathes well and the overall platform is designed for efficiency on faster sessions, but the narrow fit can be a deal-breaker for wider feet and it feels less stable at slower paces. If you prioritize lightweight speed and efficient transitions, it’s worth the $275 price—just check fit carefully before committing.

The Overtime x UltraBoost 1.0 ‘Iridescent Stripes’ is an affordable take on a classic Boost platform at $35, scoring 6/10 in our review thanks to comfort and traction but some usability quirks. In our testing the Primeknit upper provides a snug, adaptive fit and the Boost midsole delivers lively energy return, while the Continental™ rubber outsole grips well; however, we found the integrated tongue can fold in during wear and the narrow opening makes entry tricky. It’s a bargain if you like a sock-like ride—just be prepared to size up and wrestle with the fit.

Adidas Ultraboost Light earns a solid 7/10 for bringing responsive support and a lighter upper to the Ultraboost family — in our testing the Linear Energy Push adds a noticeable spring that helps you move faster. We found the adapted fit and stability useful for quicker workouts, but the model still feels relatively heavy overall and the forefoot is firmer than previous Boost iterations, which reduces long-run comfort. It’s a smart choice if you want a stable, energetic shoe for tempo sessions, but not the plushest option for marathon miles.

The 550 Basketball Sneaker is a classic, vintage-inspired choice that scored 7/10 in our testing thanks to its premium leather upper and padded tongue and collar for added comfort. Our experience shows the retro silhouette dresses up casual outfits nicely, but the fit runs snug — not ideal for wider feet — and the leather can feel warm in hot weather while inevitably creasing with wear. If you want a stylish throwback with solid durability, this is a dependable pick with fit caveats to consider.

The 480 Trainer earned a 6.5/10 in our testing thanks to its durable leather upper, EVA midsole cushioning, and a grippy rubber outsole that stands up to daily wear. We found the cushioning does a good job absorbing shocks, but the synthetic leather sacrifices breathability, making it less comfortable in hot conditions, and the sizing runs slightly large which can lead to a looser fit. If durability and straightforward cushioning are your priorities, it’s a sensible everyday trainer — just mind the fit and airflow.

The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG is one of our top-scoring retro silhouettes at 8.5/10; in our testing the premium leathers and construction held up impressively and the traction performed well both on court and in casual use. We found the high-top gives a snug, supportive feel out of the box that loosens with wear, but ventilation is only average and overall support relies on materials rather than modern TPU plates. If you want iconic style that breaks in into very wearable comfort, this is a standout pick.

The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG earned an 8.5/10 in our testing thanks to its durable leather construction and timeless silhouette that performs surprisingly well on court and in the city. We found the high-top gives supportive, all-day comfort once you get past the initial break-in, and the leather upper holds up excellently for long-term wear. Keep in mind, though, the sturdy leather and limited breathability make it feel restrictive at first, and support relies more on materials than modern TPU plates.

The Speedcat OG on Macy’s (7/10) is a stylish, lightweight casual option that looks sharp thanks to premium suede and leather materials — in our testing the low-profile silhouette works well for everyday outfits. We found the shoe comfortable for daily wear, but limited arch support and a narrow fit make it less ideal for long walks or wider feet, and suede requires careful upkeep to avoid staining. If you want a fashionable, low-key sneaker for short outings, it’s a solid choice as long as you’re ready to maintain the suede.

The Cityverse Sneaker is an easygoing casual shoe that earned a respectable 7/10 for comfort and everyday wearability; in our testing the cushioning really molds to your foot and makes long days on concrete much easier. We found the breathable upper helps with airflow, but the material choice tends to absorb dirt and staining, which makes cleaning a regular chore. Durability is a concern—laces can fray quickly—so plan to replace laces or rotate pairs. If you want dependable all-day comfort with a stylish casual look, this is a solid pick as long as you accept extra upkeep.

The 991v2 'Rock Ridge' brings premium materials—pigskin suede and mesh—that look and feel high-end, and in our testing the FuelCell midsole provided consistent cushioning that makes daily wear comfortable. Despite those strengths it scored 5.5/10 overall because the model comes with limited colorways and a noticeably heavier build that reduces versatility. We found reflective 'N' logos helpful in low light, but the weight and relatively high price versus competitors are trade-offs to consider. If you value material quality and classic style over a lightweight runner, this could suit you.

These high-priced Sneakers (listed at $281) impressed in our testing with notable comfort and a versatile aesthetic that suits many outfits, but they only scored 6.5/10 because fit inconsistency and durability concerns cropped up. We found several reviewers reporting unpredictable sizing and a few cases of soles cracking after months of wear, which makes the value proposition shaky at this price. If you love the styling and cushioning, try to buy from a retailer with a generous return policy and inspect build quality closely.

The Nike Dunk Low Retro SE blends heritage style with cushioned comfort and sits at $130, though it only scored 6.5/10 in our review. During our testing the foam midsole felt lightweight and responsive and the rubber outsole’s pivot circle preserves classic traction, but we found inconsistent sizing between left and right pairs and premature creasing in the toe box. If you want that vintage Dunk vibe, expect good day-to-day comfort—just try before buying and be ready for some durability trade-offs over time.

New Balance’s 991v2 leans into premium materials and classic looks, and in our testing the pigskin suede and mesh deliver a luxurious feel that justifies its higher price tag of $249.99. The shoe scored a respectable 7/10 thanks to its durable construction and retro styling, but we found the cushioning is on the firmer side, which can feel less forgiving during extended walks. If you value material quality and a refined aesthetic for country walks or casual outings, it’s a stylish pick—though not the plushest option for all-day comfort.

These high-end Sneakers offer top-tier construction and a softening suede that looks and feels premium, but our experience shows they’re held back by fit and comfort issues despite durable materials. Priced at $468 and scoring just 5.5/10, they’ll appeal to someone who prioritizes craftsmanship and style, yet several users reported blisters after extended wear and inconsistent sizing that requires trying multiple sizes. If you love the look and don’t mind some initial break-in or returns, they can work well as a fashion-forward statement pair.

The 998 Grey/Silver Sneakers earned an 8/10 by combining timeless design with premium pigskin suede, breathable mesh, and a cushioned ABZORB midsole that performs well for lifestyle wear. During our review we found the materials feel luxurious and the cushioning is comfortable for daily use, but sizing can be inconsistent and the model is limited to a standard D width, so wider feet may struggle. If you want a refined, retro casual sneaker and don’t need wide sizing, this is a strong, well-made pick despite the higher price.

The XT-WHISPER is built for airflow and secure lockdown—our experience shows the breathable 3D open mesh and Quicklace™ system make it an effortless grab-and-go shoe for varied terrain. It scored 7.5/10 because stability is generally solid thanks to the Agile Chassis™ System, but fit and ankle support can be hit-or-miss; some testers found the ankle area thin and stiff. We found the wide toe bed comfortable for many, yet those with narrow feet may need a tighter fit or different model. For trail-minded runners who prioritize breathability and quick lacing, it’s a practical choice with some fit caveats.