Finding the right pair of sneakers is no easy task, even for us editors here at Men’s Health. Honestly, the sneaker market is so oversaturated and rife with options that it can be a bit overwhelming to track down which ones are the best for you.
It’s especially tough to be mindful of important things like quality and which shoes work for which occasions while you’re distracted by unique colorways and your favorite brand names. And as cool as it may be to have an extensive sneaker collection, it’s best to find your perfect, everyday pair.
Thankfully, the Men’s Health team has spent countless hours testing the wide variety of sneakers on the market so you don’t have to. These sneakers have passed the test of combining both fashion and function. Each one is worthy of becoming your go-to pair, from the all-time classics, to the kicks that will help you run at lightening speed, and, of course, the hottest new releases in style for 2020. Check out the 31 best sneakers for men to wear this year.
“Saucony’s ultra-light, ultra-fast carbon plate racer offers the best of the best for elite runners—but if you want to improve your own PRs, they’ll perform for you, too. On my first run wearing them, I felt like I was moving slowly because my strides were so effortless. Then I looked down at my watch to check my pace, and I was moving 40 seconds faster than I expected.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“Foam beads have made the Joyride a total game-changer. With four separate pods filled with proprietary foam-bead tech through the whole sole, each step will absorb your stride and return energy to propel you forward. A snug fit with a breathable upper round out this must-have sneaker to help you spring into action for your next run—with a little help when you need it most.” – Jamie Prokell, Creative Director
“After a week of trying out the new Tree Dasher style, I can confidently say it adapts the original Runners for more intense athletic pursuits without sacrificing the things I loved about Allbirds in the first place. And yes, the Allbirds Dasher is worth your money.” – Spencer Dukoff, Deputy Editor
“A rich nubuck upper elevates your affordable workwear, allowing you to save the big bucks until you reach executive level.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Senior Style & Gear Editor
“If you’re a baller, you already know why this shoe has a perfect rating. The Air Jordan line represents the best of the best in performance basketball footwear, and the 34 is just the latest example. The shoe’s lockdown is next-level, while the new Eclipse Plate keeps the shoe super light and explosive.” – Ebenezer Samuel, Fitness Director
“These ridiculously cushiony kicks from Nike were designed to help runners prevent injuries. I can’t say for sure whether they’ll actually keep you off the IR, but I can attest that they’re some of the most comfortable, reliable shoes I’ve worn this year (or ever). If you’re not concerned with blistering speed, this is the trainer for you.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“These are nothing like your dad’s Converse kicks. The new All Star Disrupt CX get a souped-up outsole. innovative foam midsole, and a stretchy canvas upper. Sure, we love the classic All Stars, but these futuristic kicks are definitely worth a spot in your footwear rotation.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Senior Style & Gear Editor
Puma
Puma Sky Dreamer Basketball Sneakers
“Want a performance basketball shoe that performs on the court? What about a fashion-forward high-top sneaker? Get both in one package with these kicks from Puma, which combines style and substance. As soon as I took these out of the box, I turned heads.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo’s first signature shoe is a uniquely budget-priced basketball shoe that delivers terrific forefoot lockdown on the court and lets you move with ease. Add in some unique colorways (check out the Coming to America edition if you can find it) and you can have some fun with this one off the court, too.” – Ebenezer Samuel, Fitness Director
“The knit upper of these hybrid running sneakers has the right balance of stretch and support for superior comfort, combined with a unique design for high style. In all-white sneaker, the cool texture appears subtle enough to wear for everyday occasions, but still maintains enough interest to make admirers want to take a closer look.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Senior Style & Gear Editor
“In a world of chunky “dad sneakers”, this gem from the late ‘70s feels surprisingly refreshing. A snazzy suede texture takes the multi-purpose training shoe to stylish new heights, without an obnoxious platform-like sole.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Senior Style & Gear Editor
“Socks and sandals? Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried Chaco’s Z/Ronin. These babies provide the comfort of wearing sandals while protecting your feet against the wet, wild world. Plus, they’re lace-free, which means you’ll spend less time fiddling around and more time for your busy day ahead.” – Spencer Dukoff, Deputy Editor
“Adidas brought its Boost foam to the trail, and hikers should take the opportunity to experience the added comfort and spring that comes with the high tech material. The fit and support of the Free Hiker is clutch and the GORE-TEX membrane can handle anything nature can throw at it.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“Proof that the ‘dad sneaker’ trend doesn’t have to be ugly, these retro kicks are my go-to to sport with workwear trousers and my distressed denim jeans. The black and white color combo gives the Air Max 90 QS a sleek look to wear with anything in your closet” – Adam Mansuroglu, Senior Style & Gear Editor
“This new casual classic is an update of one of New Balance’s best-looking lines. Along with the sleek look and bold colors, you’ll love the one-piece bootie for a snug, slip-on and tie fit.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“The Air Jordan 1 is the OG sneakerhead pick for a reason. Depending on the colorway you get (choose wisely), these could be your signature kicks for years and make you look cool with just about any look. Wear them with a T-shirt and shorts? Sure. What about a suit jacket and jeans? That works, too. The original AJ1 is a classic—and that won’t be changing any time soon.” – Evan Romano, Associate Editor
“Reebok’s throwback sneaker straddles the line between lifestyle shoe and training shoe; eye-catching enough to wear for a night on the town, but supportive enough (and with enough midfoot lockdown) to fuel you through your workouts. A bonus: A budget price that means you can get two or three pairs for the price you might typically spend on one pair of cool sneakers.” – Ebenezer Samuel, Fitness Director
“It’s easy to see why every iteration of the Killshot sells out pretty much overnight: The retro-inspired workhorse is stylish enough to elevate a basic jeans-and-t-shirt look, but also understated enough to lend a suit some attitude. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more versatile and affordable sneaker to build your wardrobe around.” – Michael Darling, Executive Editor
“If you’re looking for a simple clean sneaker with a bit of a new kick to it, I’m loving these tonal black Adidas Gazelle sneakers in suede. The Suede with its natural texture makes them fresh for the season to wear with your winter flannel, chino or denim pants. This is.a sneaker you could also pull-off well with a winter wool suit, for a more sporty and relaxed suit look option.” -Ted Stafford, Fashion Director
“Koio kicks it old school with their latest soccer-inspired release. The brand has developed a cult-life following for their handcrafted sneakers with high-quality construction and the new Tempo Bianco is no exception. Splurge on these smooth, soft leather sneakers to easily elevate your everyday style—you won’t regret it.”- Adam Mansuroglu, Senior Style & Gear Editor
“High performance running company Brooks turned some heads when it dropped the chemically-engineered, super bouncy DNA AMP midsole with the Levitate to take on the now-ubiquitous adidas Boost. This fresh colorway of the third version of the flagship makes these sneakers just as flashy as they are comfortable, so you can transition from the road to casual wear without even having to change your kicks.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“I am really into these Nike Drop Type LX. They feel like the perfect pairing of a classic Court silhouette with deconstructed modern details on the tongue and rubber edging. The understated simple black color with a pop of pink at the heel puts a fresh twist on the iconic sneaker to sport now through the fall season.” – Jamie Prokell, Creative Director
“Swiss running brand On’s distinctive shoes are becoming more common on running paths and city streets for casual wear because they don’t just perform well—they look good too. The Cloudstratus takes On’s signature “cloud” cushioning and adds an extra layer for a smooth ride and adds a customizable lacing system.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“Ten years in, Reebok’s CrossFit-focused trainer finally finds its footing. The 10th edition of the Nano trades excessive stiffness for a more comfortable body, making for a more versatile all-around training shoe that excels on barbell cleans but can also survive a manual treadmill run.” – Ebenezer Samuel, Fitness Director
“Yes, mules are a trending shoe for summer. Slide on some classic style with this new Stan Smith version. It’s the perfect solution for breathable, easy-to-wear footwear for dudes who can’t bring themselves to purchase ‘mandals’.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Senior Style & Gear Editor
“Can’t decide between a super technical running shoe or a casual stunner? Pick both. These kicks from adidas can perform on the road and feature classic lines from the brand’s iconic past to pair with your best trouser and tee look.” – Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“Similar to the Adidas Samba, the Mexico 66 is a trainer that transcends decades of style. This particular colorway made their debut in pre-Olympic trials before the Mexico Olympic games in 1968 making them suitable for any champion. With the dynamic Tiger Stripes running through the sides of these sneakers, this style races into icon status. With this legacy, this sneaker embodies all winners—past & present.” – Alfonso Fernandez Navas, Fashion Assistant at Men’s Health
“This simple black sneaker silhouette with a gum-colored sole gives you just enough personality to not feel like you’re following the herd, while still maintaining a classic look that appeals to any guy . They deliver the ultimate all-day comfort, thanks to a soft leather upper and a supportive footbed.” – Jamie Prokell, Creative Director
“After wearing them in three consecutive marathons, I now preach the gospel of the Adidas Boost to all who will listen. Everything runners have always loved about the Boosts—the stretchy knit upper, the bouncy, responsive cushioning—is still true of the Ultraboost 19’s, only better, lighter, and sexier. When the next race inevitably comes along, I’ll reach for them again.” Michael Darling, Executive Editor
“Sick of changing up your shoes from activity to activity? Just rock this multipurpose trainer from Lane-Eight from the gym to the street and back again. The sharp-looking sneakers have a sock-like knit upper to go with stable TPU sidewalls for a comfortable lockdown fit.” -Brett Williams, Fitness Editor
“They’re not the sexiest pair of sockless kicks, but when you’re running through mud and woods and rain, all while panting and wanting to die, they feel pretty damn comfy.” -Joshua St. Clair, Editorial Assistant
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