27 Best White Sneakers for Every Trip and Occasion (2024)

Originally conceived as a tennis shoe, this unlikely fashion staple has been spotted everywhere from New York to Paris (and the unisex design works just as well on men). 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.

For a casual shoe that’ll take up minimal suitcase space, look to the Superga Cotu classic sneakers Cotu sneaker by iconic Italian shoe brand Superga won’t steer you wrong. 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. Own enough white? Get them in olive green, metallic blue, light gray suede, or a range of other collectible colors.

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 shoe features a rubber shell toe, heel tab, and all-over leather.

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).

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.

Haven’t we all owned a pair of Chuck Taylors at some point? This Converse classic hasn’t changed much looks wise since it was released back during the 1920s—the ultimate testament to an enduring design that got it right the first time. Slip them on with your favorite pair of jeans and a loose-fitting tee and go.

Meet the newest addition to Lululemon’s footwear lineup and its very first casual sneaker. 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 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.

New Balance sneakers offer an effortlessly cool look that adds to any simple pair of jeans or track pants. I particularly love this pair of 550 sneakers—they’re the perfect amount of chunky, retro, and dad-shoe-ish. Not to mention, they are so comfortable. I get compliments every time I wear these bad boys.

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.

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 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 timeless staples. 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 senior commerce editor Madison Flager, earns a spot on our list for its impressive flexibility and breathability. These soft, packable kicks are ideal for all-day wear and transition well from season to season.

Another trending style: the Samba, traditionally a soccer shoe but one that has become a street style favorite worn by the likes of Katie Holmes, Harry Styles, and Emily Ratajkowski over the past few summers. The low-top shoe has a grippy bottom that makes it a decent all-weather shoe, and is available in white with black, green, or red stripes, among other colorways.

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 an elevated option for our fashion-obsessed travelers. The Greats Royale 2 perfectly captures that effortless street-style look and is easy to dress up. 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 to wear with dresses and skirts when I want a stylish look without the potential discomfort of a sandal or heel.

There’s no getting around it: At over $400 a pop, a pair of Common Projects’ Achilles white leather sneakers is an investment, but the splurge is well-warranted. Not only does the supple Italian leather get better with age, the material is also easier to clean than regular canvas, keeping the shoes looking better longer. Plus, every pair is gold-foil-stamped with its factory and style codes—both a tasteful statement for those in the know as well as an added detail that ensures the ones you buy are the real deal.

We swear by Frye’s Chelsea boots for active days touring a new city. When you’re looking for something a little sportier, the brand’s Low Lace Sneakers are a great option. The molded footbeds give them enough arch support for all day wear, and the textured leather contrasts the thick rubber soles, giving them a stylish, sleek look.

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.

Crisp and clean, these white leather sneakers are a timeless staple that will never go out of style. Plus, they’re comfortable right out of the box, requiring no break-in period.

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 eighth 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.

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.

These Vans are practically made for traveling: Their slip-on design makes them a go-to shoe for breezing through the TSA line, and they are lightweight enough to squeeze into any suitcase. The signature rubber waffle outsoles give the shoe enough structure to wear all day. Plus, they go with just about any outfit you pack and are available in a variety of colors if you are looking for a switch from classic white.