Sneakers have gone a long way from being confined to the gym and the streets to being virtually everywhere. While they did not always make sense sartorially, their benefits lead us to wonder why they weren’t always the go-to choice for our feet. Sneakers were oft dependable, providing adequate cushion to the feet that they aren’t worn out by the end of the day. They can also survive the many elements they may be subjected, making them a necessity for anybody’s shoe rack.
When you’ve decided to buy one, or simply refresh your collection, may we suggest black sneakers? Sure, their lighter counterparts have had their own time under the limelight, but they were a pain to clean. You wouldn’t have to worry as much with black kicks, and we’d argue that they are just as fresh as any color, even a classic. Designers also took it upon them to make them more stylish, a point proven by our list below:
1. Golden Goose Deluxe Brand Superstar distressed velvet and leather sneakers
Price: US$550.00
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GGDB seems to be an upgrade from Converse, and its Superstar sneakers prove why: the brand favorite is handmade in Italy and with high quality materials, which would make you assume that they should last you longer than the others. The Superstar is quite the show-stealer too; this one in particular has both a sporty and edgy vibe furthered by the metallic leather and worn in appearance.
2. Y-3 Black Harigane Sneakers
Price: US$350.00
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Step up your sneaker game with Y-3, brought to you by Adidas and the Japanese master himself, Yohji Yamamoto. These black Harigane sneakers are dope, simply put, and a standout in design despite having just a black and white colorway. Thanks to the soles, the pair looks like it’s transporting you to the future.
3. Eytys Angel glossed-leather platform sneakers
Price: US$360.00
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The past year has been all about the chunky soles, but have you taken yours in an all-black color scheme? If not, this is the time with Eytys’ black Angel sneakers that come with a generous amount of shine, thanks to its glossy leather. Each step is guaranteed to make an impact, literally, because they’re on the heavier side. The Angel could just withstand anything thrown its way based on appearances alone, which might be due to its being a trekking shoe-inspired pair.
4. Jimmy Choo Kolt embellished shearling-lined suede sneakers
Price: US$895.00
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Jimmy Choo, famous for its women’s shoes, has also made a stunner in the form of Kolt. The sneakers are as luxurious as can be because of the black suede that is inviting enough to touch. Three golden stars give the pair just the right amount of shimmer by the heel.
5. Gucci Flashtrek embellished logo-embossed mesh, suede and leather sneakers
Price: US$1,590.00
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With other high fashion brands taking on the dad sneaker trend, Gucci just won’t sit and let the others hog the spotlight. It has captured the attention of sneaker lovers everywhere with the Aces, but it could do it again with the Flashtrek, fresh the house’s Fall ‘18 show. These are bolder choices than the rest for the green crystals alone, but those could be taken off the pair if you want to dial down the glitz.
6. Fendi sheer panels chunky sneakers
Price: US$890.00
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The Fendi logo is pretty much absent on the outside, but this one is still a sick and luxurious pair to wear every chance you could take. The chunky sole alone gives it character and makes it a coveted pair, but the calf leather is also wonderfully executed with the panels.
7. MM6 Maison Margiela Suede-trimmed velvet sneakers
Price: US$475.00
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Feeling gutsy? Try on MM6 Maison Margiela’s sneakers, we dare you. This black beauty does not depend on the soles alone for attention; the house takes it even further with the plush velvet ribbons that may be too much a few seasons back but feels just right today. Made in Italy, the sneakers are comfortable to the feet, regardless of what the exterior may lead you to believe.
We see no reason why you shouldn’t embrace black sneakers. They’re just as kicky as their more colorful or even lighter counterparts, sans the need to maintain them ever so often. Going overboard with the hues and shades can be tiring occasionally, and black brings back the balance without being the less statelier option. “You can never go wrong with black” applies to many garments, but this list has just cemented that the same goes for sneakers, too.
