16 Best Sneakers You Can Actually Wear to Work
Office dressing just got more comfortable.
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It’s 2024; everyone’s wearing sneakers to work, and I’m not mad about it. As the corporate world has adapted to a changing one, so has our footwear. Work sneakers are as crucial to my rotation of traditional work shoes as, say, loafers or kitten heels. Don’t get me wrong, I still love a good ballet flat or Mary Jane, but there’s something so liberating about wearing a pair of tennis shoes to the office. Being comfortable just makes everything seem a little easier.
All that said, what you specifically need out of your shoes depends on a few factors. According to Dylan Somerset, senior manager of global lifestyle marketing at New Balance, personal style and comfort play important roles in determining which pair of sneakers to buy. Personally, my must-haves are versatility and comfort, which is why a neutral shoe (like a white leather sneaker) is always a safe bet. Somerset concurs, especially when figuring out how to incorporate sneaker trends into your workwear. “An easy place to start is with neutral colors such as grey, black, or white for versatility.” With this in mind, I aimed to choose sneakers that fit a wide range of needs while providing style, versatility, and consistent comfort.
Whether you work in a hybrid setting, in the office full-time, or strictly from home, find the perfect pair of sneakers to wear to work below.
When it comes to the office, sometimes a simple white sneaker is the way to go. And guess what? These are a favorite among ELLE readers. They’re comfortable, versatile, sleek, and affordable. They go with everything, so when you’re unsure of what to wear with your outfit, you’ll always have this pair to lean on.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 29 options
Material: Leather, rubber
Customer review: “I wear these basically everyday at work. I’m on my feet a lot and they’re comfy. I can wear them for long periods of time.”
Here’s an underrated sneaker that should be on your radar, in my opinion. The Palermo is the ultimate combination of style and comfort, and the splash of blush gives them a trendy twist.
Sizes: 5.5-11
Colors: White/Pink, Purple/Coral, White/Tan
Material: Leather, suede, rubber, mesh
Customer review: “Love them. No break in period. Super comfy. Cute with jeans or a dress.”
New Balance is really changing the game with sneakers designed for all aspects of life, including the office. The 327 is perfect for commuters because the thick sole offers extra cushioning.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 8 options
Material: Polyester, rubber
Customer review: “Very comfortable. I love the neutral tone to wear with any outfit. My new casual work day go-to.”
Vans and Proenza Schouler just dropped one of the summer’s most exciting collaborations. And as it turns out, it’s an ideal slip-on sneaker for the office. The shoe emulates the iconic Vans design in a puffy iteration.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Ecru, Black, Resin
Material: Calfskin, rubber
A dad sneaker in the workplace? This neutral pair is proof you can wear your favorite trend with your work outfits.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: White/Birch
Material: Leather, textile, synthetic, rubber
Customer review: “Stylish, super comfortable, and soooo easy to pair with anything! I use it for casual days and at the gym. It’s definitely a great purchase.”
These Golas have a bit of everything but are still extremely versatile. Wear them with trousers, jeans, even skirts and dresses; they go with it all.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black & White
Material: Leather, rubber, poly blend
Customer review: “If you are looking for comfortable sneakers that are different from what everyone else is wearing, these are for you. They are true to size and feel good right out of the box. The pop of gold is an added bonus to these cute shoes.”
What I love most about these is that the color is fun and fresh, but could still pass as neutral, making them perfect for the workplace.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Dark Green/White/White, Animal Grey/White, Tan/White, Court Purple/White/White
Material: Leather, synthetic lining, rubber
Customer review: “Perfect, trendy shoe with amazing comfort. Classic design.”
You can never go wrong with a pair of Vejas for work, and this pair in particular stands out. The pop of silver is a fun accent, too.
Sizes: 4-10
Colors: White Silver, White/Bellini, White/Natural
Material: Canvas, rubber, recycled polyester
Customer review: “Was hesitant to spend this much $ on a pair of shoes, but these fit straight out of the box and look SO great with dresses, work pants, and casual attire!”
If wearing a true sneaker to work still sounds too intimidating, opt for a slip-on sneaker instead. They give you the comfort and durability that comes with a sneaker but without the laces. Bonus points because you can throw these in your washing machine!
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: 10 options
Customer review: “This sneaker is sleek and comfortable! Perfect all seasons, a neutral color casual shoe. Wear at work or play, and they’re washable!!!”
Not only does this sneaker feature a beautiful pale violet hue, but it’s also perfect for the warmer months. It’s an updated classic that you’ll want to wear to the office again and again.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Light Bone/Platinum Violet, White/Football Grey/Brown
Material: Synthetic, rubber
Customer review: “These are super pretty! They run true to size and are the perfect neutral to go with any outfit. I love them!!!”
I have been a Tretorn fan for years because its shoes are comfortable and have a retro vibe. The Rawlins is great for those who want a runner style sneaker that can be worn with just about everything, including with your work outfits.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: 13 options
Material: Rubber, textile
Customer review: “I’m on my feet all the time at work, and I needed another pair of stylish yet comfortable shoes to wear. I’ve had my eye on the Tretorn Rawlins in white for a long time but wanted to shop around first. Finally, I saw them, in my size, the color I wanted on sale and finally committed to buy them. Glad I did.”
These sneakers check all the boxes for a work sneaker: They’re neutral, comfortable, supportive, versatile, and durable. Wear them to that full day of meetings and then out for after-work drinks or errands. You’ll feel supported from day-to-night.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Antique Cream Multi
Material: Leather, cotton, rubber
Customer review: “I’d been needing a good neutral colored shoe for work and this one is perfect! It runs a little tight but feels great once you break it in. Really great for if you have to move around a lot for your job like I do.”
Metallic sneakers are a fun way to add a bit of shine to your work looks, and a pair like these might just be what your wardrobe is missing. In addition to the added height (thanks to a slight platform), they are super lightweight—a commuter’s dream.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 17 options
Material: Leather, rubber
Customer review: “Comfortable! Perfect for a business casual work shoe or daily wear.”
If you adore your On athletic shoes and have been looking for ways to wear them to work, this pair is your answer. They provide the comfort and quality you love from the brand’s other models, but in a more stylish way.
Sizes: 5.5-10.5
Colors: White
Material: Synthetic leather
The vintage look and bright green color of these runners make them stand out from the pack. While the green might seem a little bold for the office at first, your outfits will be that much brighter in the best way possible.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Emerald Green, Light Sand
Material: Rubber, leather, nylon, suede
I love gum sole sneakers, and they happen to be perfect for wearing to the office. An elevated take on a white sneaker, these will last you all summer long.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Ivory Metallic Multi, Metallic Silver
Material: Polyester, rubber, leather
Customer review: “I needed a good neutral, fun sneaker to wear with trousers or dresses. These fit the bill!”
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