In a year that has undoubtedly streamlined my style to focus on timeless basics that work for nearly every occasion, black sneakers have made it into my top five wardrobe must-haves. Yes, they're right up there with my classic white T-shirts and vintage-inspired denim. Don't get me wrong. I love a sneaker trend, too—especially when the number of styles out there is virtually endless. That said, when I need comfortable shoes to slip on at a moment's notice, tried-and-true black sneakers are it for me.
Whether it's a simple pair of lace-ups with my go-to fashion uniform, buzzy Adidas Sambas, or a space-age slip-on pair for my athleisure looks, you can catch me wearing the pairs below on any given day. But even with my mental Rolodex of looks, I get a bit of sartorial fatigue. So while searching for new ensembles to add to the catalog, I zeroed in on the 20 best black sneakers the internet can offer right now.
Keep scrolling to see them all with additional outfit inspiration to get your wheels turning.
Run, don't walk. The sneakers every fashion person from New York to Paris is buying and wearing are still in stock (for now).
If you're a fan of the Adidas Sambas and New Balance 550 but want something not everyone will have (yet), you need to see these from Onitsuka Tiger.
Style Notes: If you plan to wear a simple all-black look, give your ensemble a cool and casual touch with classic black Converse sneakers.
It really doesn't get any more timeless than these always-in-style Converse.
Wear these with baggy jeans and a white tank for the ultimate skater-girl vibe.
Style Notes: White sneakers might be your first instinct when creating an athleisure look, but take Bella Hadid's outfit as proof that black sneakers can be just as cool for the gym. Double down on the color contrast by layering black and white tanks for a '90s spin.
If I saw you wearing these at the gym, I'd assume you were a total pro.
Everyone I know who owns these can't stop raving about how comfortable and functional they are for running.
I don't usually like spending a lot on sneakers, but I'd absolutely make an exception for these much-talked-about Loewe runners.
The classic sneakers EmRata wears on repeat.
Style Notes: Black sneakers work just as well as white sneakers when paired with jeans and a tee for a casual look. This is your sign not to overlook the black versions of the season's It pairs.
There may be a zillion colors to choose from when shopping for Dunks, but the classic black-and-white pairs are easily the most versatile.
A fun twist on retro basketball styles.
Style Notes: We love the idea of wearing black tonal sneakers with a sleek daytime ensemble that could easily be worn at night, too.
The sneakers that seemingly every fashion person owns.
People who wear this style from APL can't stop raving about how comfortable they are. In black, I happen to think they're quite chic for gym sneakers.
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to wear tailored trousers in a more casual way is by pairing them with simple black sneakers.
An underrated gem.
If you're after the quiet-luxury look, no pair of sneakers embodies it more than this low-key style.
Style Notes: One unique and unexpected ensemble? The combination of bright colors like purple and orange. An of-the-moment pair of Sambas won't hurt, either.
I'm not sure these Supergas will ever really lose favor.
That studded detail, though.
Style Notes: If you want to give your ultra-polished look a touch of downtown edge, swap out your shoes for some sporty slip-on sneakers instead.
The hikers that have become a cult favorite among NYC's downtown crowd. Good luck finding many in stock, though...
You may not think of Tory Burch as being a destination for cool sneakers, but this pair should change your mind.
Style Notes: Let's be honest; our summer uniform is jeans with a white tank. A pair of retro black sneakers is just the hint of trendiness this look needs.
Simple, a little bit retro, and totally cool.
A cool-girl favorite.
Up next, see 2022's trending sneakers and how to wear them.
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