There are few universal truths in this world. But one that most people will agree on is that men have an almost unshakeable conviction that they know best when it comes to watches, cars, and, of course, sneakers. The latter, in particular, are rarely just shoes. They become evidence—of their taste, obsessions, sense of style and, increasingly, where we stand sartorially. A sneaker can tell you a surprising amount about a man before he has said a word.
You guys can spend an inordinate amount of time debating the merits of a particular silhouette, arguing over colourways, or explaining to someone who absolutely did not ask why the shoe you're wearing is technically a "retro runner" and not a "dad sneaker". You know the difference between a classic and a comeback, between something genuinely good and something that the algorithm has briefly decided is cool.
So, what kind of sneakers are men actually wearing right now? We looked beyond the hype to the sneakers that are turning up on the streets, in wardrobes and on the feet of men who know that, sometimes, the shoe really does make the man.
The Nike Heritage Vulc SB Summit White Navy is a low-key skate shoe that works everywhere. The white and navy combo is timeless, the vulcanised sole keeps it flat and flexible.
No way the Samba OG pair by Adidas is ever going to go out of style and popularity. Let's just leave it at that.
A timeless streetwear staple that remains a go-to flex for versatile, everyday styling. The Air Force 1 Low is a permanent fixture in the modern man's wardrobe. Its clean lines and unmistakable profile make it one of the easiest sneakers to wear with almost anything, from jeans and cargos to chinos and relaxed tailoring.
The Mexico 66 has quietly become one of the most recognisable low-profile sneakers around the globe. Its slim, almost delicate silhouette is a welcome counterpoint to the chunky runners that have dominated men's footwear in recent years. The yellow-and-black colourway adds just enough personality without becoming difficult to style. Pair it with straight-leg denim, relaxed trousers or even shorts when the weather allows.
Few sneakers have managed to retain their cultural credibility quite like the Old Skool. With its instantly recognisable side stripe and skateboarding DNA, it brings a slightly rebellious edge to an otherwise straightforward outfit. Wear it with loose denim, cargos or shorts; the Old Skool works best when the rest of the outfit isn't trying too hard.
Chunkier and more technical than the 530, with enough visual interest to carry a simple outfit. A good option for the man who has moved beyond minimalism but isn't ready for full-blown sneaker maximalism