The 11 Best Sneakers of 2023

“Are you ready for some serious sneaker talk? From luxurious designs to athletic staples, I've scoured the internet to bring you the 11 most-wanted styles of the season—and weighed up whether they’re worth the splurge. Whether you love classic, statement or designer collaborations, I take it all into account and lay out my honest reviews, here.” — Jing Leng, ModeSens Fashion Director

1. Salomon White Limited Edition Xt-6 Adv Sneakers

This understated classic has been getting some hype lately (which is surprising, because my kids have been wearing Salomon shoes for years, and I didn't realize they were a thing!). I tried the snow-white version which is just like the brick-red pair Bella Hadid has been spotted in. Part sneaker, part hiking shoe, it’s a timeless design with a TPU-wrapped mesh upper that looks ready for outdoor adventures. The weight is just right—not too heavy or too light—and the Quicklace system, which is easily adjustable, ensures a snug fit. The style runs true to size and it’s a solid, reliable shoe that plays into the current so-uncool-its-cool Dad-trend. These sneakers tend to hold their value; keep an eye on price fluctuations on sneaker trading websites like StockX. In short, even if you're not an outdoorsy type, these sneakers are totally on-trend and look great with jeans or skirts for an understated city look.

2. Nike x Jacquemus Air Humara

This hot pink collaboration between Nike and Jacquemus caught my eye for obvious reasons. You may recognize them from the brand’s ten-year anniversary runway show in Provence—they feature a mesh and suede upper and chic cut-out details that echo the ready-to-wear collections. An instant hit, they’ve garnered almost 300,000 likes (and counting!) on the label’s Instagram so far. Although they feel a bit stiff around the ankles when I first put them on, they are a lightweight design. They’re pricey, but that won’t deter hardcore fashion enthusiasts—particularly those who count themselves among Jacquemus’ cult following. The neon pink hue has already sold out on Nike's website but check ModeSens and you’ll find a few retailers that still have them in stock. While they look fun now, I question their long-term value. At the end of the day, it's down to how badly you want to invest in a collaboration by this cool designer.

3. Golden Goose Superstar Distressed Leather-trimmed Suede

Golden Goose has been a luxury sneaker staple for over a decade. So, while they’ll initially cost you around $500, the pre-distressed designs have proven long-term value. Even though they’re not currently a top trending sneaker, they seem to defy trends and are constantly popular. One of the Superstars’ main selling points is its hidden wedge, which secretly adds a little extra height. They’re available in a variety of colors and feature seasonal motifs that are often handcrafted by artisans; also, the shoelaces are intentionally mismatched and have a unique, worn-in effect to match the vibe of the leather uppers. Those with high arches should be careful of these styles since they have a low instep. Apart from that, they’re a failproof option. I’d recommend holding out until sale season and picking up a pair at the lowest possible price.

4. Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede Sneakers

Classic and versatile, the German Army Trainer (GAT) from Maison Margiela is constantly appearing in social media feeds and is inspired by a classic 70s silhouette. Although this simple design is not my first choice, I completely understand why they’re so popular: compared to a host of other similar styles, Margiela’s stays closest to the original design. Since white wasn’t available in my size, I bought the same style in green, which has a fresh, spring vibe. It’s very comfortable, with elastic on the inside that reduces pressure on the instep—though those with high arches may need to try it on for themselves. It’s made of genuine leather, so its upkeep requires a little extra care, and it can't be washed with water directly. Its minimal and versatile so you’ll get a lot of wear out of them, but I still recommend waiting for sale season when you can likely snap them up at around 50% off.

5. Loewe Flow Padded Retro Runner and Flow Logo-appliqued Shell, Leather and Suede

Now for the designer sneakers! First up is the Loewe Flow, a retro design inspired by the 70s and 80s. As with anything by Loewe, there is a high-level of craftsmanship involved. The upper is a combination of napa, suede, and calfskin, and the swirling Loewe Anagram is stamped on the side. Each season there’s a new color combination that inevitably becomes a timeless favorite. I love the leather edge at the heel that offers ankle support and takes the comfort factor to another level, and the fluffy upper that’s super soft. There’s also an invisible wedge that offers a little extra height, but also noticeably affects the weight of the shoe. Personally, I like the Flow’s business-casual look. It’s also reasonably priced and, since the seasonal colors are always changing, it's relatively easy to wait for it to go on sale.

6. Hermès Bouncing Sneaker

With the distinctive logo, it’s easy to tell who these sneakers are by. The pair I bought a few years ago feature partially distressed leather and fabric, and, honestly, the logo is probably the best thing about them. That said, they are comfortable, and as lightweight as a functional sports shoe. They do have a narrow toe-box, however, that slightly presses against the top of the foot, so consider buying a half size up if you want to wear socks. This style has a retro orthopedic look, which isn’t hugely appealing to me, but it does play into the season’s Dadcore trend. They’re also perfect if you're looking for something to pair with your Hermès bag, because they are one of the brand’s more practical items.

7. Celine Block Sneakers with Wedge Outsole

The platform sneaker has been going strong for a while, and Celine’s 70s-inspired iterations are a wildly popular example. The classic white color likely works with anything in your closet, they’re extremely comfortable, proportionally balanced, and have the perfect spongey density around the ankle. The curved soles offer excellent support, too, although they are weightier than traditional sneakers because of the platform. While they are expensive, there isn’t really a cheaper equivalent when it comes to trend-led styles that are minimal and comfortable.

8. Gucci Screener Distressed Low-top Sneakers

The Screener is Gucci’s flashy bestseller that costs close to $1000 and utilizes Gucci's classic old flower motif, paired with the house’s iconic red and green stripes and some suede and crystal details. It's a true embodiment of Gucci's eclectic style, and the pink shoelaces are a fun touch. But looking beyond its colorful exterior, it just reminds me of a Nike Dunk with a floral shirt on. The shoe is very comfortable with a slight weight to it, a spongey ankle support, and an elastic tongue—so even if the shoelaces are untied, the sneakers stay on. The upper has a vintage look, which is easier to maintain than white leather. But the color combinations are so specific that they may look more discordant than chic. All things considered, at this price, I’d rather spend the money on a pair of rare, limited-edition SB Dunks.

9. Chanel Suede Kidskin

I bought a pair of these sneakers a year ago, and each season they release a new design with a subtle twist. Inspired by skateboarding shoes, Chanel have really tapped into that Gen-Z appeal. But while the craftsmanship is impeccable, the fabric covering the shoe may not entirely justify the inflated price tag. And although the white sponge lining is soft and comfortable, it lacks elasticity, so there’s not much support for your heels—you can easily squash the back of the shoe with one step. Rather embarrassingly, I took mine out today after not wearing them for a while, and they’d turned yellow! They do feel good on, though, and they’re a light, comfortable and practical style. Ask yourself this before making the purchase: Do you still like them without the logo?

10. Dior Walk’n’ Oblique Knit Sneaker

Dior’s high-tops are the most expensive styles of all, and they look just like Converse with a Dior monogram. I feel nostalgic for my student days just looking at them. They are hugely comfortable. The rubber sole has some weight, but also some bounce, so you won't get tired after a day of walking. That’s a big contrast to Converse's hard sole, which can leave your feet sore after a couple of hours. While the rubber sole and fabric are of good quality and the stitching and assembly work are commendable, I also think the same of a $65 pair of Converse. For that reason, they’re not worth the splurge—you’re only paying for the brand name.

11. Manolo Blahnik Semanada Sneaker

These lesser-known sneakers are one of my personal favorites. I bought a white leather pair for walking around Paris recently and they were incredibly comfortable. The entire shoe is constructed using minimal stitching and they fit as if they were custom-made. The lining is pure leather, and the versions with velvet uppers have a super lustrous feel. They offer a good level of support without being hard or stiff. When it comes to versatility, it’s hard to imagine what not to wear them with. As for the price, they are currently on sale, so why wait?

That's it for my sneaker roundup! If there's anything specific you'd like me to review, please let me know in the comments. See you in the next episode. And, in the meantime, don't forget to follow me and click here watch video reviews.