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10 White Leather Sneakers to Wear Again and Again (and Again and Again)

As an avid wearer, this one is personal.

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new york, ny february 12 model ana arto wears a deveaux coat, gray top, black trouses, and white sneakers on february 12, 2018 in new york city photo by melodie jenggetty images
Melodie Jeng

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I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I live in black boots in the winter and white leather sneakers for the rest of the year. They’re stylish, practical, and, when done right, comfortable. I’ve tried at least seven different versions over the years, from classic Nike Air Force 1s to trendy Instagram brands and everything in between. As far as I’m concerned, I’m an expert on the subject, so I’m well-qualified to guide you through the best of the best.

But, in case you aren’t convinced, I consulted two official experts, too. Maud Barrionuevo is the buying director at 24s, and Brigitte Chartrand serves as vice president of buying for womenswear and “Everything Else” at SSENSE. Both women separately told me that the biggest appeal of white leather sneakers is the versatility they provide. (I would have said the same thing, FWIW...)

  • Clover Court Sneaker

    Best Luxury

    Tory Burch Clover Court Sneaker

    $248 at Tory Burch
    Read more
  • Garda Slip-On

    Best Slip-On

    Koio Garda Slip-On

    Read more
  • OCA High-Top

    Best High-Top

    Cariuma OCA High-Top

    Read more
  • Club C Extra

    Best Platform

    Reebok Club C Extra

    Read more
  • Cityverse Sneaker

    Best Sporty

    Lululemon Cityverse Sneaker

    Read more

“White sneakers can be worn with almost anything, from jeans and a T-shirt to a silk skirt and a cashmere sweater or a tailored suit,” says Barrionuevo. “Well cared for, they have the power to create such a clean, pure look from the feet up. They’re the perfect effortless styling tool.” She recommends prioritizing quality materials and construction and avoiding trend-driven or flashy styles, lest you get tired of them after a season or two.

Of course, it goes without saying that cleanliness is a concern for any white item—particularly shoes. Bear that in mind for every product on this list. I will note, however, that leather is typically easier to clean than canvas or other fabrics. Barrionuevo says Golden Goose sneakers tend to be low-maintenance and easier to care for.

For her part, Chartrand isn’t necessarily upset about a little dirt. “There’s something charming about the aging process,” she says. “In reality, the wear and tear tells a story and signals to past memories. Give into the scuffs!” Can do, captain. With that, I present to you the 10 best white leather sneakers to wear on repeat forever.

Best Luxury

Tory Burch Clover Court Sneaker

Clover Court Sneaker
Best Luxury

Tory Burch Clover Court Sneaker

$248 at Tory Burch
Pros
  • Designer
  • Wide size range
  • Good traction
  • Cushioned sole
  • Rave reviews for comfort and style
Cons

    Remember when the whole world couldn’t get enough of the Tory Burch sandals? That’s how I feel about these.

    Colors: Purity/Perfect Black, Titanium White, Purity/Shell Pink

    Sizes: 4-13

    Customer review: I can wear them all day with different outfits, they are very comfortable and pretty.”

    Best Slip-On

    Koio Garda Slip-On

    Garda Slip-On
    Best Slip-On

    Koio Garda Slip-On

    Pros
    • Easy on-and-off
    • Made with sustainable leather and recycled rubber
    • Great reviews
    • Unisex
    Cons
    • No half sizes (Recommended to size down)

    They aren’t for everyone, but I, for one, love slip-on shoes.

    Colors: Antique White, Panther

    Sizes: 5-11

    Customer review: “Gotta have ‘em. I I thought I had reached the epitome of comfort...but the Garda took it up into the stratocomfortsphere. Please don’t get me started on the Garda’s good looks.”

    Best High-Top

    Cariuma OCA High-Top

    OCA High-Top
    Best High-Top

    Cariuma OCA High-Top

    Pros
    • Sustainable
    • Made in men’s and women’s sizing
    • Half sizes available
    • Under $200
    Cons

      Don’t worry, high-top lovers; I would never leave you out. Cariuma is the obvious choice in this category.

      Colors: Off-White

      Sizes: 5-13

      Customer review: “Love them. Best shoes for my dodgy feet.”

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      Pros
      • Under $100
      • Comfortable
      • Half sizes available
      Cons
      • Not ideal for those who don’t like chunky shoes
      • Hard to dress up

      Here is my current personal favorite. As mentioned, I’ve tried a lot of different versions. I’m obsessed with the laidback yet flattering look of these as well as the comfortability. Even without my orthotic inserts, I could walk all day in these.

      Colors: Ash Lilac, Chalk/Glen Green, Chalk/Grey Blue, White/ Pure Grey, White/Vector Blue

      Sizes: 5-11

      Customer review: “These shoes are so comfortable and just want I wanted and imagined. If you’re on the fence, get them! So cute and comfortable. Have not given me any blisters. True to size! They're perfect.”

      Best Sporty

      Lululemon Cityverse Sneaker

      Cityverse Sneaker
      Best Sporty

      Lululemon Cityverse Sneaker

      Pros
      • Half sizes available
      • 30-day trial
      • Good traction and cushioning
      • Under $150
      Cons
      • Hard to dress up

      Lululemon is, of course, famous for its activewear, so it only makes sense that the brand would branch into sporty footwear, too.

      Colors: White, Raw Linen, Juicy Peach, Precocious Pink, Jade Whisper

      Sizes: 5-12

      Customer review: “Fits true to size. I have ordered all lulu shoes online, and they all fit great. I was just on a trip and I walked around for hours in these shoes and they were super comfortable and neither my back nor feet were sore. Love!”

      Best Orthotic

      Frankie4 Riley White Tumbled

      Editor’s Choice
      Riley White Tumbled
      Best Orthotic

      Frankie4 Riley White Tumbled

      Pros
      • Designed by a podiatrist
      • Subtle platform sole
      • Lightweight
      • Elastic gusset allows you to wear with or without laces
      • Responsibly made
      Cons

        This is the sneaker I plan on testing next, but I’m very confident that I’ll love them. I have a pair of stiletto boots from Frankie4 and wear them constantly. If this is half as comfortable, I’ll be over the moon.

        Colors: White, Black, Silver

        Sizes: 6-13

        Customer review: “I have wide flat feet with bunions so it's really hard to find comfortable shoes for work where I stand and walk all day. Riley fitted like a glove the moment I put them on and my feet don't hurt anymore at the end of the day. They look lovely with pants or skirts and they are very high quality. Best investment ever.”

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        Best Sustainable

        Veja V-12 Sneakers

        V-12 Sneakers
        Best Sustainable

        Veja V-12 Sneakers

        Pros
        • Sustainable brand
        • Many iterations available
        Cons
        • Some customers say they’re too stiff
        • No half sizes available

        Editors and Meghan Markle like Veja, so why wouldn’t you? Barrionuevo and Chartrand both told me the brand is a consistent bestseller.

        Colors: 8 options

        Sizes: 4-13

        Customer review: “I normally don’t spend this much on sneakers, but I took a chance, and wow, they're lightweight and flexible but sturdy, high-quality materials, so cute and comfy! I have slightly wider feet in the toe area and was worried about the fit but they're roomy and would work with thicker socks. I'm super picky with my footwear and am really happy with these. Totally worth the price point.”

        Best on Amazon

        Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Time Off Platform Slip On Fashion Sneaker

        On Sale
        Time Off Platform Slip On Fashion Sneaker
        Best on Amazon

        Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Time Off Platform Slip On Fashion Sneaker

        Now 30% Off
        Pros
        • Sustainable
        • Stretch laces; easy on-and-off
        • Cushioned and supportive insole
        • Affordable
        Cons
        • Customers say they are especially difficult to clean
        • Not the most durable
        • Not genuine leather

        If you know me, you know I’m in favor of orthotics. So, Dr. Scholl’s take on a plain white platform is a resounding win, in my opinion.

        Colors: 18 options

        Sizes: 4-13

        Customer review: “These shoes are so comfortable. It’s like walking on a cloud. Quiet shoe when walking. True to size and look so cute.”

        Best Budget Pick

        SERNIAL White Tennis Shoes PU Leather Sneakers

        On Sale
        White Tennis Shoes PU Leather Sneakers
        Best Budget Pick

        SERNIAL White Tennis Shoes PU Leather Sneakers

        Now 48% Off
        Pros
        • Affordable
        • Easy to clean
        • Comfortable
        Cons
        • Not genuine leather
        • No half sizes available
        • Customers say they crease easily

        Especially if you know you’re going to wear the hell out of them and likely destroy them, an affordable pair is the best bet.

        Colors: White

        Sizes: 5-11

        Customer review: “These shoes are so comfortable. It’s like walking on a cloud. Quiet shoe when walking. True to size and look so cute.”

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        Best Designer

        Loewe Low Top Sneakers

        Low Top Sneakers
        Best Designer

        Loewe Low Top Sneakers

        Pros
        • Designer item
        Cons
        • Lacks support

        If you have any concerns about your tennis shoes coming off as sloppy, a designer pair like these Loewe shoes are the ultimate choice.

        Colors: Off-White

        Sizes: 35-41

        Customer review: “Simple style but elegant”

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