The 15 Best High Tops to Take Your Sneaker Collection to New Heights

Footwear, meet streetwear.

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Collage of high top sneakers we recommend on a gray background

Byrdie / Kevin Liang

You don’t have to shoot hoops to appreciate a good high-top sneaker. There’s something about the sneaker’s extra height that takes your outfit to, well…new heights. Historians say the real reason why sneakers were designed as high tops in the early 1900s was that they mimicked men’s ankle boots that were worn at the time. High tops offer the edge of a boot with the comfort of a sneaker. 

Of course, high tops have evolved tremendously from their first iterations, but the general concept is still there. Versatile and durable, high tops are ideal for trips filled with walking and Instagram photos as well as daily treks across the city. Crisp white sneakers go with practically any outfit, yet today, you can show off your personality with sneakers in different shades, fabrics, and silhouettes.

“High-top sneakers are…the perfect shoe to pull together any look—no matter your style,” says Stitch Fix stylist Stephanie Valponi. “Whether it’s romantic florals or an edgy moto jacket, a great pair of high tops will have you rocking your look with confidence.”

Regardless if you are looking for your new go-with-anything sneaker or simply want to add a new kick to your collection, we researched the best high-top sneakers. With expert styling tips from Valponi in mind, we evaluated each based on silhouette, material, color, sizing, and price.

Best Overall

Converse Chuck Taylor

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers

Amazon

You know you’ve created a brilliant design when it's lasted for more than 100 years. Though they’ve gotten some tweaks over the decades, Converse Chuck Taylor All Star high tops look largely similar to the first iterations in 1917. Canvas upper, rubber sole, star logo. People love them because they come in a variety of colors and prints, can easily be dressed up or down, and don't cost a fortune. Spanning a century, the shoe is tied with many iconic moments, but the best are those you make in them. In other words, Converse shoes age well.

Material: Textile upper, rubber sole | Colors: Optic White, Black +more | Size Range: 5–20

Best Budget

Levi's 521 BB Hi Pebbled Hightop Sneaker

521 BB Hi Pebbled Hightop Sneaker
Courtesy of Amazon.

Looking for something more wallet-friendly? These faux leather high tops are on-trend but also classic and versatile enough that you can wear them any season for multiple years. Since the white vegan leather goes with just about anything, they'll offer a great bang for your buck.

Material: Faux leather upper, rubber outsole | Colors: White/Gum | Size Range: 8–13

Best Classic

Vans Canvas SK8-HI

Vans Unisex Sk8-Hi High-Top Sneakers in Canvas

Madewell

These Vans were many people's first introduction to high tops. The lightweight canvas is breathable and lends to a laid-back ease. The all-white ones can be hard to keep clean, but you can always select another color or embrace the worn-in look.

Material: Canvas upper, rubber outsole | Colors: True White, Racing Red, Navy, Black/White +more | Size Range: 5–17.5

Best Sustainable

Cariuma OCA High

Cariuma OCA High

Cariuma

What we love about Cariuma is the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The OCA high-top fuses fair trade organic cotton upper and 100% vegan insole from responsibly managed ethical factories. Not only that, but these sneakers are some of the most comfortable shoes the Byrdie team has tried.

Material: Canvas upper, mamona oil base, cork insert | Colors: Off-white, Black | Size Range: 5–13

Best Leather

Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage

Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage

Nordstrom

Consider leather sneakers an investment piece—the durable material is easy to clean (just wipe down) and molds to your feet. With Nike’s timeless design, you’ll be wearing these high tops for nearly, well, forever. Styled in the 1970s, the shoes have a sleek silhouette that won’t feel bulky on your feet. And one large swoosh can add a flash of color (orange anyone?) or you can keep it clean with all white. Or become your own muse by designing a custom pair.

Material: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Colors: White, White/Habanero Red, Black/Sail, Phantom/Pearl, White/Chlorophyll +more | Size Range: 5–12

Best Luxury

Balenciaga Speed 2.0 LT Sock Sneaker

Balenciaga Speed 2.0 LT Sock Sneaker

Nordstrom

The most iconic designer high-top shoe isn’t made from luxury leather—it looks like a colorful sock with a chunky sole. Though it wasn’t a new concept, the Balenciaga speed trainer caused a sensation when first released. From Cardi B shoutouts to fast fashion brands making their version, the sock sneaker is here to stay. Compared to traditional kicks, the style is lightweight and molds to your foot for a barefoot feel. The neutral color palette is perfect for a sporty, minimalistic look, but it's also available in more bold colors too if that's what you're looking for.

Material: Textile upper, synthetic sole | Colors: Black/White/Black, Pink/White | Size Range: 5–12

Best All-White

Adidas Forum Mid

adidas forum mid white

Adidas Originals

Leather is easier to keep clean than canvas, says Valponi, that’s why we picked a leather option for our all-white pick. The Adidas Forum high-top gives you that iconic logo and three stripes in a bleached-out palette. Challenging basketball legends from the 1980s, the shoe features a removable criss-cross strap system for style you can change up. Who says monochrome has to be boring?

Material: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Colors: White, Cloud White/Royal Blue, Cloud White/Core Black, Collegiate Navy/Team Dark Green +more | Size Range: 5–20

Best Chunky

Converse Run Star Motion Sneaker

Amazon Converse Run Star Motion Sneaker

Amazon

Think all Converse sneakers look the same? Well, you haven’t seen this pair. Sure it has the classic canvas construction but instead of a sleek platform, you get a spiked chunky sole. With a phylon midsole for impact absorption and lightweight cushioning, these shoes will feel like walking on a cloud.

Material: Organic canvas upper, CX foam insole, rubber outsole | Colors: White/Black/Gum Honey, Aqua Mist/Egret, Black +more | Size Range: 4.5–14.5

When you have wide feet, you want to look for sneakers with a wide toe box and stretchy fabric to accommodate your foot. The Legacy high-top checks off those boxes with their shape and breathable knit material made from recycled water bottles. Designed for travel, these sneakers are moisture-wicking, washable, and packable. The weatherproof toe cap not only looks good but protects your feet as you travel between different climates. Now you no longer have to wonder what shoes to wear on the plane.

Material: Knit upper, rubber sole | Colors: Jet Black, Slate Gum, Clay +more | Size Range: 5–12

Best on Amazon

Puma Rebound Layup Sneaker

Puma Rebound Layup Sneaker

Amazon

For a unisex shoe that is as sporty as street, check out this pair of Pumas on Amazon. Inspired by a basketball trainer, these sneakers have a padded tongue and collar for comfort and support. Synthetic leather comes in both neutral and bold color combinations. Take a cue from Instagram and style these kicks with a leather skirt and graphic tee.

Material: Faux leather upper, rubber outsole | Colors: White, Black, White/Ocean Dive, Puma White/Dark Jasper +more | Size Range: 5.5–15

Best Vegan

Veja V-15 CWL Sneakers

Veja V-15 Leather High-Top Sneakers

Bloomingdales

You’ve probably seen Veja sneakers popping up everywhere in recent years, but did you know the popular brand strives toward sustainability? As a certified B Corp, the brand is committed to being transparent about how it makes its products and treats its workers. The V-15 is a high-top sneaker made from vegan materials like castor oil, recycled rubber, and rice waste. The result looks like leather, though you can wear it knowing no animals were harmed in the process. The brand’s signature V can be the pop of color that ties your entire outfit together.

Material: Organic cotton and faux suede upper, rubber outsole | Colors: White | Size Range: 4–10

Best Designer

Off-White Off Court 3.0 High Top Sneakers

Saks Fifth Avenue Off-White Off Court 3.0 High Top Sneakers

Saks Fifth Avenue

Pay tribute to designer Virgil Abloh with his take on the high-top basketball shoe. True to his brand, Alboh infused this sneaker with unique details like an eccentric platform design, loud laces, and arrow appliqué. It also comes in a glitter version for those who want some daily sparkle.

Material: Leather and textile upper, synthetic sole | Colors: White | Size Range: 5–12

Best Distressed

Golden Goose Slide High Top Sneaker

Golden Goose Slide High Top Sneaker

Nordstrom

Do you ever feel nervous to wear a new pair of sneakers because they are so clean and pristine? Golden Goose has the solution for you. Inspired by Southern California skating culture, the sneakers come pre-distressed, sort of like a pair of jeans. Now you might be wondering why you would shell out more than $500 on shoes that come dirty. Well, each scuff, stain, and smudge is handmade in Italy, meaning no two pairs are the same. Besides the design details, the brand has built a cult following as fans rave they are some of the most comfortable sneakers they own. Whether you prefer the distressed look or want to avoid new shoe anxiety, check out their selection of eclectic high top sneakers.

Material: Leather upper, rubber sole | Colors: White/Ice | Size Range: 5–11

Best All Black

Naturalizer Morrison Hi Water-Repellent

Naturalizer Women's Morrison-hi Water Repellent High Top Lace Up Sneaker

Amazon

Sometimes you want a shoe that’s all black. Like literally all black from the logo to the laces. Naturalizer shut out the lights in this high top design. Yet what really makes this shoe stand out is its water-repellant leather exterior and non-slip rubber sole. Yep, it's a sneaker you can actually wear in the rain without fear of getting soaked or dirty. There's a thermal sock liner to keep your toes toasty in the rain yet the lining is still breathable. Like all Naturalizer shoes, this sneaker is designed to be extra comfortable for all day wear and comes in wide sizes as well.

Material: Leather, rubber | Colors: Black, White, Brown | Size Range: 5–12

Best Retro

Reebok Royal BB 4500 Hi 2 Sneaker

Reebok Royal BB 4500 Hi 2 Men's Basketball Shoes

Reebok

These throwback sneakers from Reebok are inspired by basketball shoes from the 1980s—but you don't have to be a baller to wear them. You can rock them with street clothes, athleisure attire, or activewear, whether you're running errands, going to class, catching a flight, heading to a party, or just hanging out.

Material: Leather and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Colors: White/Black/Red, Black/White/Gold Metallic, +more | Size Range: 6.5–14

What to Look For in High-Top Sneakers

  • Material: High-top sneakers tend to be made from canvas, leather, or suede. Deciding between these materials comes down to your lifestyle and the look you’re going for. If you want to invest in a shoe that’ll last a long time, Valponi recommends looking for leather options, whether genuine or vegan. “The benefit [of leather] is that it gives a sleek polished look, and it’s super easy to clean. A quick polish will have your shoes feeling eternally new,” Valponi says. “Not just that, but leather tends to increase in comfort with time, as the material molds to your feet.” For a more casual look, you can’t go wrong with classic canvas, like the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star. This fabric comes in a variety of colors and prints and can be more affordable. However, canvas is harder to keep clean, so for those crisp, white high-tops, leather may be the better bet. Suede is another material that elevates sneakers. According to Valponi, “Suede on the uppermost portion of the shoe will give you added flexibility and comfort." Yet as anyone with suede shoes knows, the material can be delicate when it comes to dirt and rain. If you love the look of suede, consider a mixed-materials sneaker.
  • Silhouette: Though all high-top sneakers share the common trait of extending above the ankles, there are so many variations of the style today. Some are form-fitting to the foot, like the classic Converse or Balenciaga sock-style sneaker, while others have platforms or chunkier silhouettes, like Adidas Forum Mids. It makes sense to stock up on different styles for a variety of outfits and moods. The sock style looks ultra-modern and sophisticated, while chunkier sneakers have a funkier feel. Valponi says it’s all about balance. Sleek shoes balance out more voluminous layers, while chunkier silhouettes turn up a minimalist getup.
  • Color: While a white sneaker like the Reebok Royal BB 4500 Hi 2 Shoe is a wardrobe essential that goes with every outfit, colorful shoes can add that extra oomph to your wardrobe. “The key to successful styling is building in contrast. If your outfit is more neutral, then don’t shy away from snagging a bold color shoe with a fun logo. The contrast will give the whole combo a fun pop,” Valponi says. “Alternatively, if you are wearing fabrications with colorful prints, then choose a muted shoe with neutral colors.”
FAQ
  • How do I style high-top sneakers with dresses?

    High-top sneakers are a great choice when you want to dress down a skirt or dress as well as play with contrast.

    “Reach for either a skinny style high-top or a thicker option, but remember, the key to pairing with skirts is balance,” Valponi says. “If your skirt is fuller, I recommend snagging a sleeker high-top that doesn’t create added bulk.”

    This combo goes great when you’re running errands on the weekend or even in the office on a casual Friday.

    “High-tops style well with a mid-length skirt and look fantastic with a graphic tee and denim jacket for a casual vibe,” says Valponi. “For an in-office combo, opt for an oversized blazer and a crisp button-down.”

  • How do I wear high-top sneakers with jeans?

    Combining jeans and sneakers is the ultimate casual-cool look. Yet styling high-tops can be a little tricker as you don’t want the jeans to bunch around the shoe. Follow Valponi’s easy tricks for nailing jeans with high-tops.

    “A thinner high-top is so versatile and can be worn with various denim styles (think straight fit, wide, or skinny)," Valponi says. "I always recommend showing a sliver of skin (think about an inch) around the ankle. This can be achieved with a casual cuffing of the hem. Avoid the habit of lacing the sneakers all the way to the top, but rather stop about mid-way for a casual vibe.”

    Though tried and true skinny hightop is a classic staple, Valponi says you shouldn’t hesitate to pair your denim with a thicker bolder option. The key to styling this fit is to tuck your denim into the shoe loosely for an elongated look.

Why Trust Byrdie

Emily Cieslak is an associate commerce editor for Dotdash Meredith and has covered fashion for Byrdie since 2021. Cieslak always owns at least one pair of white sneakers to dress up or down and has cycled through various brands and styles. Her white Vans high-top sneakers will always have a special place in her heart. For this article, she interviewed a style expert from Stitch Fix on how to shop for and style high-top shoes. Commerce writer Theresa Holland did additional research and product selections.

  • Stephanie Valponi is the California Styling Lead at Stitch Fix, an online personal styling service.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough seamless underwear from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

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