The Best White Sneakers for Every Trip and Occasion

Originally conceived as a tennis shoe, this unlikely fashion staple has been spotted everywhere from New York to Paris. The shoe’s clean silhouette is timeless—it’s been kicking around since 1971—and was built for long days of movement, with extra foam padding that protects the back heel and cushioned soles to prevent blisters. Stan Smiths also come in a variety of colors and collectible small-batch releases, though it’s hard to go wrong with classic white, whose three perforation stripes nod to the brand’s heritage.

Air Jordans took the fashion world by storm back in the 1980s, during the height of Michael Jordan’s basketball career. Since then, the Air Force 1 has only grown in popularity. Nike has thrown it back to that era of street style with this sporty low-top, re-released in solid colors including classic white. The sole is well- cushioned and lightweight, thanks to springy Nike Air technology, so a long day spent walking in them won’t hurt your feet.

Reebok’s Club C 85 Vintage Sneakers are another great option for long days on your feet. Made with a soft garment leather for full-foot support, they have a padded foam sock liner that adds even more cushion. The low-cut, sporty design gives the shoe a similar look and feel to Stan Smiths.

For a skate-style take on classic white Converse, try the Chuck Taylor All-Star high-tops. They’re as comfortable and long-lasting as the original low-tops, with a slightly edgier look that will elevate even the most basic pair of jeans (and on chilly or rainy days, give your ankles a bit more coverage).

Throw it back with Adidas’s original basketball-inspired sneakers, which debuted in 1970. The shoes quickly became a streetwear staple that we’re still rocking today. The comfortable shoe features a rubber shell toe, heel tab, and all-over leather.

For a casual shoe that will take up minimal suitcase space, look to these classic canvas sneakers from Italian shoe brand Superga. The shoe is simple, affordable, and comfy to a fault, made for long days of walking with a sturdy cotton canvas lining and cushioned footbed.

The trendy Samba sneaker, traditionally a soccer shoe, has become a street style favorite worn by the likes of Katie Holmes, Harry Styles, and Emily Ratajkowski over the past few years. The low-top shoe has a grippy bottom that makes it a decent all-weather shoe, and it’s a beloved favorite of several of our editors.

If you have yet to discover why Allbirds has built a cult following, now is the time. The best-selling (and machine washable!) Tree Runners are built for long days on your feet—they’re lightweight and breathable, with a cushioned midsole that offers more than enough support for all-day wear.

Read a full review of this sneaker here.

The Cityverse, available in both women’s and men’s sizes, offers a timeless look that works with most any outfit, whether you’re wearing a basic white T-shirt, a sundress, bike shorts, or a business casual outfit. This everyday shoe offers 3D molded support and plenty of cushioning, keeping you comfortable no matter what’s on the agenda.

Read a full review of this sneaker here.

Crafted by Olympian Allyson Felix, this lightweight sneaker is a must-have for anyone prioritizing orthopedic-level support without the clunkiness. This breathable, multi-purpose sneaker is great for the gym, work, or brunch with friends. Plus, Saysh has a policy where expectant mothers can exchange their shoes for another size if their shoe size changes during pregnancy.

New Balance sneakers offer an effortlessly cool look that adds to any simple pair of jeans or track pants. Commerce editor Meaghan Kenny loves this pair of 550 sneakers—they’re the perfect amount of chunky, retro, and dad-shoe-ish. “They are so comfortable and I get compliments every time I wear these bad boys,” she says.

Our editors swear by shoes from Rothy’s for the unbeatable comfort and soft-knit material. It also doesn’t hurt that the brand makes all of its shoes from recycled materials and prioritizes avoiding production waste. If you’re looking for a polished pair of everyday sneakers to wear to the office or courtside, these lightweight lace-ups fit the bill. Best of all, they’re machine washable—an important factor to consider when it comes to white shoes.

When it comes to building our travel wardrobes, our editors (and readers) often turn to Everlane for high-quality basics. The Day Sneaker is no exception—this white leather shoe made with recycled materials is simple in design yet really adds to an outfit. The rubber outsole adds extra durability and the slightly tapered toe makes the foot appear much more slim. I’d wear this with everything from straight leg jeans and trousers to work-friendly dress pants.

Okay, this shoe isn’t all white, but it’s polished and versatile nonetheless. The Adonis sneaker, a favorite of associate commerce director Madison Flager, earns a spot on our list for its impressive flexibility and breathability. These soft, off-white packable kicks are ideal for all-day wear and transition well from season to season.

An elevated yet sporty take on a classic design, the Notice sneaker has a leather exterior and a recycled textile lining. One notable features of this stylish shoe is the thick rubber outsole that helps limit wear and tear.

These sleek, minimalist white sneakers by Pangaia are environmentally friendly from top to bottom: The upper is made from grape leather repurposed from the Italian wine industry’s waste, and the recycled rubber soles come from fashion industry waste—old samples, prototypes, and rejected products. Plus, the crisp, polished kicks just look good.

Look down on a New York City subway and you’re bound to see at least one pair of Veja Campos. Among the wearers of the popular shoe is Traveler‘s global digital director Arati Menon, who just retired a pair after years of use. While she admits the shoes are a tad stiff when you first buy them, they wear in to become a complete workhorse: “I’ve taken my Campos on so many vacations from rugged national park adventures and European city breaks to using them as workwear staples,” Menon says.

Here’s a high-quality, elevated option for our fashion-obsessed travelers. The Greats Royale 2 perfectly captures that effortless street-style look and is easy to dress up with a blazer, fitted pair of trousers, or a silk skirt. This updated version of the original Royale sneaker offers an evolved fit, with little to no break-in time needed.

These vegan leather sneakers really know how to dress up an outfit. They feature a rubber outsole that provides solid traction and shock absorption. I’d pack this sleek pair of white sneakers to wear with dresses and skirts when I want a stylish look without the potential discomfort of a sandal or heel.

On knows a thing or two about designing running shoes that consistently perform. This all-white sneaker from the popular brand has a more casual look for everyday wear, but offers all the comfort and support its athletic shoes are known for. Wear these with a pair of black leggings and your favorite oversized jacket for a sporty, comfortable airport look.

Hokas are excellent running shoes, so if you can get onboard with the ultra-thick platform and rocker shape of the Bondi style, you’re in for a comfortable stride. The Bondi is in its ninth iteration, and has earned an American Podiatric Medical Association seal of acceptance, meaning it’s been found beneficial to foot health.

If you’re already a fan of Lululemon’s activewear, it’s time to try out the brand’s training shoes. The Strongfeel is lightweight, sleek, and comfortable enough to wear throughout even the longest travel days. If you’re only traveling with one pair of shoes, these are ideal—wear them to a workout class or on a run, while sightseeing, and even out to dinner.

Ever wondered why they’re called “Air Max?” The foot bed is actually injected with air to create unbelievable cushioning that is incredibly lightweight. The Air Max 90 is an updated, fresh take on the original design created in the ’70s. Pair the classic white sneakers with boyfriend jeans and a fitted T-shirt and you’re ready for the weekend.

Made for summertime heat, this breathable slip-on features Sperry’s classic silhouette with a memory foam insole, rawhide laces, and flexible non-marking rubber outsole that offers enhanced traction. This sleek shoe takes you from the boat to the beachfront restaurant without missing a beat.

This lightweight slip-on sneaker has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for its features that promote good foot health. The cushioned insoles and padded heel collar add extra comfort to every step, while the Re-Zorb Lite tech works tirelessly to absorb shock and keep you protected during hikes.

Ideal for a busy travel day, Kizik’s Milan sneakers can be slipped on and off easily, no hands needed. This nylon retro-inspired shoe is slightly off-white, but it’s still neutral enough to match just about anything in your suitcase.

Another favorite shoe of ours from Rothy’s is The Original Slip-On sneaker. It offers the brand’s usual benefits—they’re sustainably made, machine washable, and oh-so comfortable—with the ease of no laces necessary. These slip-ons feature a cushy midsole for extra support and removable insoles that are easy to clean; plus, they are so lightweight, making them one of the best shoes to pack in an already full suitcase.