There is no arguing that every footwear collection, no matter how big, should contain one pair of black sneakers and one pair of white sneakers. Once those two boxes have been ticked, the rest of the rotation can begin to take shape. Without them, there’s always going to be something missing. And, while black sneakers are ideal for the colder, darker months thanks to their no-fuss nature, the right pair of white sneakers can carry you through spring and summer by itself.
One of the real assets of a pair of white sneakers is its ability to make an impact without shouting for attention. The one-tone palette puts an emphasis on the silhouette of the shoe, the materials used, and highlights detailing that would go unnoticed in a brighter design. So, in their simplicity, white sneakers often become the most visually interesting aspects of a rotation.
With the help of Browns, we’ve pieced together a monochrome jigsaw to benefit any rotation. From luxury Margiela designs through to Merrell’s utilitarian approach and retro runners by Onitsuka Tiger, our selection of the best white sneakers show the length and breadth of the genre.
Shop the best white sneakers for summer below.
adidas x Prada Luna Rossa Sneakers
Prada’s collaboration with adidas has taken two forms. While the collaborative spin on the Superstar looked to retro style, the Luna Rossa takes a much more futuristic take. This super-clean, semi-transparent design is highlighted by Prada’s inimitable red line logo to the heel.
Merrell Long Sky Mesh Sneakers
We just can’t get enough of hiking sneakers right now, can you tell? Merrell’s Long Sky sneakers eschew a cluttered, bold upper for immaculate white mesh, suede, and leather. The combination of textures exemplifies the power of a monochrome palette.
Maison Margiela Replica Dripping Paint Sneakers
Margiela loves to coat its iconic silhouettes in liquids. The Maison Margiela Replica has been dripped with paint before but this time, instead of bold colors, it’s white paint on a white backdrop and signature gum sole.
Eytys Fugu Spiked Sneakers
Inspired by the infamous Japanese pufferfish and its spiky armor, the Eytys Fugu boasts a suede-paneled upper that sits atop one of the best sole units we’ve seen in ages.
adidas by Craig Green Rivalry Polta AKH Sneakers
Another of adidas’ classic silhouettes gets the luxury treatment, this time at the hands of Craig Green. The Rivalry Polta AKH features a molded TPU upper to give the ‘80s classic a modern lift.
Onitsuka Tiger Vickka NM Sneakers
Founded by Kihachiro Onitsuka, who went on to found ASICS, Onitsuka Tiger’s sneakers provide the retro, lifestyle antidote to ASICS’ performance-based mindset. The Vickka NM Sneakers are handmade in Japan and are up there with the most versatile silhouettes of the season.
Reebok Club C 85 Sneakers
On the heels of a Margiela reboot, the Reebok Club C 85 is always on our minds. If you’re looking for something less out-there than Margiela’s Tabi recreation, just opt for the clean, minimal original.
Raf Simons Cylon High Top Leather Sneakers
Designer Myles O’Meally’s influence on Raf Simons’ footwear output has been monumental. A host of streamlined new arrivals put Simons at the top of the luxury sneaker pile once more and this pair of Cylon High-Tops proves it.
Veja V-12 Low Top Leather Sneakers
Ethical sneaker master Veja is never far from the minimal-sneakers discussion. The V-12 Low Top is an everyday highlight made to exacting standards in its quality and ethics.
Axel Arigato Clean 90 Leather Sneakers
When the palette’s all-white, the materials and details are left to do the talking. Axel Arigato’s Clean 90 features little to no detailing, so it’s up to the premium leather uppers to do the heavy lifting, and they do.
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