Best white trainers: From Adidas to Converse, the white sneakers you need for 2021
White sneakers have long ruled the streets, taking a firm hold on the fashion agenda – and this season is no different.
Some of the latest and most sought after shoes, from Nike to Buffalos, are white trainers that can be worn by men and women alike.
Simple, effective and now an iconic streetwear staple, the versatility of white sneakers cannot be underestimated and this no doubt plays a major part in their popularity. They can be easily paired with office attire, weekend adventures and after work pub sessions to take you from day to play.
Our favourite footwear designers have harked back to their archives to reimagine sneakers from the 1980s and 90s and we’re making a beeline straight for them.
For a fashion go-to or just to elevate the basics, check out the best white sneakers to cop this season.
Adidas Forum Low Shoes
One look at the Adidas Forum silhouette and you can spot the retro heritage aesthetic from the original 1984 design - but for the latest iteration of the shoe, it has been given a contemporary update with a new low cut that brings a sleeker, more sophisticated feel that is only enhanced by the narrow toe.
Nike Blazer Mid ‘77 Vintage
Another retro inspired design, this Nike shoe harks back to the 70s and has a basketball feel but in an entirely fashion-forward way. The versatility of the Blazers cannot be understated whether you pair with jeans, smart trousers or a skirt. Change up the colour of the Swoosh or the design details to customise the colourway.
Veja Urca Retro Sneaker
French footwear label Veja has become one of the style set’s favourite shoes - so much so that you’ll rarely scroll through street style snaps without spotting a pair or two. Not only do they have a minimalistic and chic design but the brand puts sustainability at the forefront with Fairtrade, socially conscious and plant-friendly practises.
Shop women’s Veja trainers here
Run Star Hike High Top
Take the classic Chuck canvas hi-tops, add hiking elements and you’ll get the Run Star Hike - the hybrid, chunky shoe that’s the gift that just keeps on giving. They have better grip and offer a much welcomed couple of inches onto your height. The shoe also expertly plays with the often contradicting elements of statement and subtly to be a great all-round shoe.
New Balance 530
This sneaker from New Balance takes its design cues from the brand’s archival running shoes but in line with the current penchant for so uncool it’s cool styling, they have a fashion-ready design with a combination of textures and ultra-wearability. These will make a very good addition to your footwear repertoire.
Balenciaga Women’s Triple S Clear Sole faux-leather and mesh trainers
There was a time when it was impossible to get your hands on a pair of Triple S trainers from Balenciaga, despite the eye-watering price tag. The shoes now come in an array of colours including this hugely popular all-white look given an additional luxurious touch with the silver embellishment at the sole. It doesn’t get much chunkier than these as they have a triple-stacked sole.
Golden Goose Superstar distressed metallic leather sneakers
Purposely distressed, these are for sneaker savants who prefer their trainers pre-worn in to avoid that blinding ‘too new’ look. While they may appear scuffed and smudged, they remain super stylish with an effortless aesthetic. They are crafted white leather with metallic gold heel tabs.
Comme des des Garçons Play x Converse Half Heart Chuck 70 High Sneakers
With just the subtle design detail of the signature Comme des Garçons Play heart logo, these Converse will form the basis of your outfit for years to come. They have a canvas construction with rubber soles.
Continental 80 Shoes
The iconic 80s style is back and better than ever with 19 colourways and counting. The shoes are comprised of a soft leather upper and rubber cupsole for the full retro look.
Buffalo Platform White Classic Low Trainers
When it comes to these iconic 90s trainers, we are unleashing our inner Spice Girl and living by the motto that bigger is always better. The brand offers a range of silhouettes that include this model with a flatform heel and signature Buffalo branding.
Intruder Vent
Hiking boots meet trainers for a stacked sneaker that you’ll immediately want to add to your collection. The hybrid shoe is back from the Cat Footwear archives and takes the thick, chunky outsole from performance hiking shoes with an upper mesh and suede lining that is bold, stacked and always chic.
Fila Disruptor 2
Originally released in 1996, Fila’s Disruptors are as cult today as they were when they first entered the public consciousness. All-white leather with a razor edge serrated sole, these chunky sneakers have the the brand’s branding debossed on the side and on the tongue. They are also available in gold, turquoise and grey.
Off-White Off-Court 3.0 white canvas hi-top sneakers
You may not be able to get your hands on the label's sold out collaboration with Nike, in which each drop sells out in a matter of minutes, but Off-White has launched these basketball inspired sneakers that of course feature all Virgil Abloh's signature details. Spot the logo detail and neon orange zip tie (the latter has been given a textured twist in one iteration that we are here for).
Nike Air Max 97 OG
Celebrating the 90s when these shoes were first released, the Air Max 97 is available in a large range of colourways - but the triple white is definitely the most versatile. Back 20 years later with a bang, they feature plush cushioning, layered leather, and the legendary transparent Air sole.
Karhu Fusion 2.0
You may not have heard of Finnish brand Karhu but it counts Kanye West as a fan (who rarely sways from his own Yeezy trainers - if that’s not a testament to the brand – what is?). Named after the Finnish word for bear, Fusion 2.0 are an updated version of the label’s 90s sneaker. So whether you are trekking through the forests in Finland or being papped as the street style star that you are, these shoes will do the trick.
Alexander McQueen Leather Trainers
These Alexander McQueen sneakers feature an extended heel, perforated sides and gold print logo. While versions of these very popular shoes have appeared all over the high street, the originals are a step above the rest. The trim of the heel is available in a range of colours, including red and navy.
ASH ADDICT Sneakers Off-White Leather & Mesh
Our obsession with the chunky Dad trainer shows no signs of slowing and these ASH trainers will help you tap into the trend. Taking inspiration from 90s silhouettes, the trainers have leather and suede panels on mesh with a rubber sole.
Superga Flatforms
With the wedge bubble sole, Superga’s flatforms add that little bit extra height. The label’s iconic shoes are fun and feminine while the nappa leather upper is easy to wipe clean.
Read More
Best new trainer releases in August: the latest sneaker drops, from Nike to Kickers
Best trainer cleaners to make your sneakers shine
Best stylish trainers for walking 2021
25 Best plus size clothing brands and websites UK: trendy fashion for curvy women
Best online clothes shops and fashion boutiques for women and men