The best white sneakers for men

In this product guide:

How we selected
Key considerations
1. Best retro runner: Nike V5 RNR
2. Best running/walking sneaker: adidas EVO SL
3. Best low-profile sneaker: Onitsuka Mexico 66
4. Best flat sole sneaker: adidas Samba OG

How we selected

This buyer’s guide manually curates four white sneakers across multiple sub-categories and functional requirements. The universe of white sneakers is vast, so limiting the list to just four sneakers doesn’t do the category justice. Under each recommendation is a carousel that offers alternatives within that category. For example, the carousel for the adidas EVO also features the Asics Novablast 6, Hoka Clifton 11, ON Cloudrunner 3 and a couple of others. Combined, this guide contains 21 different white sneaker options you can choose from. Here’s our selection criteria:

We focused on functional comfort and styling versatility.
Four major sneaker silhouettes were considered – modern comfort, low-profile, flat/cup sole, and retro running.
The retail price for each option does not exceed (US) $200.
A wide choice of colors for both men and women should be available.
These shoes are easily available at most retailers across many countries.

Just like our running shoe guides and reviews, this sneaker guide is based on real-world consumer insights and emerging trends. Our ‘Key considerations’ section below answers questions you might have about other white sneaker types.

Key considerations

This buyer's guide doesn't feature sleek minimalist white sneakers, so what are my options?

By minimalist, if you’re referring to all-white sneakers with clean leather uppers, here are our recommendations. The adidas Stansmith is an affordable classic. The Cole Haan Grand Pro Rally has that modern minimalist look, but be mindful of the narrow fit and so-so leather quality. Also worth considering is the Onitsuka Tiger Japan-made in an all-white version.

Can you a few recommend ultra-luxury ($500+) white sneaker brands?

Our top pick is Henderson Baracco. It’s an Italian brand that uses high-end leathers like deerskin and sustainable rubber soles. They are also the rumored supplier to Brunello Cucinelli. Henderson isn’t widely available, so also consider other luxury brands like Santoni.

Best retro runner

Nike V5 RNR

Getting weary of the New Balance 530? Try the V5 RNR; mind the half-size small fit.

SEE PRICE (NIKE.COM)

Why it works (the basics)

Heavily layered upper → adds design depth and durability
Padded tongue and heel → makes the interiors comfortable
EVA foam midsole → provides lightweight comfort
Thick rubber outsole → offers hard-wearing grip

🔍 Deep Dive

The only reason why we don’t see the Nike V5 RNR everywhere is because the all-white color option is in short supply. Else, this $95 shoe will soon become the dominant model in this category – a category that sneakers such as the New Balance 530 and 740 rule. The V5 RNR, like the NB 530, borrows running shoe designs from the mid-2000s and repackages them in an affordable and versatile form factor that delivers everyday comfort.

There’s a lot going with on the tight and half-size small retro upper, belying its sub-$100 price. Synthetic leather overlays are stitched to a comfortable spacer mesh shell, and there’s even a molded Swoosh logo on the midfoot panels. If there’s any cost-cutting, we don’t see any signs of it. The injection-molded EVA foam midsole and insole are very basic, but deliver no-fuss comfort for everyday use. The V5 RNR doesn’t skimp on the outsole; a full-length rubber with waffle lugs delivers hard-wearing traction. The crowded upper design also makes the upper narrow and small, so most users will have to buy a half size larger than their regular size (e.g., US 10.5 instead of US 10) for a comfortable fit. The insole isn’t contoured like in performance running shoes, but has a flat die-cut design. So while the insole is technically removable, the replacement options are limited.

Pros

Excellent value for money
Outsole grip
Functional under-foot comfort
Secure fit
Reflective elements
Midsole stability

Cons

Short and tight fit not ideal for wide feet
Tongue slide
Lack of widths
Die-cut insole limits replacement options

Fit Notes

Fits narrow and a half-size shorter/smaller. For example, buy a size 10.5 instead of 10. Expect mild tongue slide. Single width only.

Specs

Widths: Regular (single)
Midsole: Injection-molded EVA
Insole: Flat die-cut, removable

Best running/walking sneaker