Fashion is fickle, especially when it comes to which pair of shoes are trendy at the moment. However, some styles rise above the rest, becoming icons that transcend mere footwear.
We highlight classics like the Nike Air Force 1 and high-fashion statements like the Balenciaga Triple S. Each shoe on our list has left its mark on consumers' preferences (and pockets).
We selected these shoes based on their global popularity, historical significance, and cultural impact. There are countless other notable styles, but we focused on those with the broadest appeal and lasting legacy.
Nike Air Force 1
The Nike Air Force 1 is a legend in the sneaker game. Its timeless design and unrivaled comfort have stood the test of time since its debut in 1982. Its clean silhouette, versatile colorways, and iconic branding make it a must-have for sneakerheads and casual wearers alike.
You can wear them for a casual day out or rock them on the court—the Air Force 1’s blend of style and performance has cemented its status as one of the best-selling shoes of all time, to the tune of about $800 million per year in sales.
Adidas Superstar
Adidas is another classic. The unmistakable shell-toe design and incredible versatility explain why it was so successful. This shoe has been blazing trails since 1970, effortlessly transcending generations and short-lived fads.
Adidas originally created the Superstar as a basketball shoe with a full leather upper. It captured the admiration of NBA stars like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and at one point, 75 percent of professional hoopers in the U.S. wore Superstars. Notably, it introduced the concept of a low-top silhouette, setting a new standard in sneaker design.
Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star
Since 1917, the shoe has captivated sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. The All-Star has been a symbol of rebellion, self-expression, and style from basketball courts to concert stages. The canvas upper, rubber toe cap and signature ankle patch make it instantly recognizable.
The All Star comes in a variety of hues and is available in both high-top and low-top styles. Embraced by generations of individuals from all walks of life, including musicians and celebrities, these sneakers are affectionately referred to as “Chucks.” With hundreds of millions of pairs sold worldwide, they stand as one of the most cherished and highest-selling footwear options of all time.
Nike Air Jordan
When you think of an iconic shoe, every other shoe pales in comparison to the hallowed Nike Air Jordan. Revolutionizing the sneaker industry beginning in 1985, the Air Jordan holds a legendary status unmatched by any other footwear. Among the standout models are the Air Jordan 1 ‘Chicago,’ Air Jordan 11 ‘Concord,’ and the Air Jordan 5 ‘Off White.’
Nike consistently unveils new releases and reissues of classic Air Jordan designs, eagerly awaited by fans and collectors. Rare pairs go for thousands on the resale market! Its connection to basketball idol Michael Jordan elevated it to a cultural phenomenon. Through innovative designs, technology, and a legacy of greatness, Air Jordan continues to dominate the sneaker world.
Vans Old Skool
The Vans Old Skool is more than just a shoe; it’s a symbol of skate culture and DIY ethos. Debuting as “Style 36” in 1977, the Old Skool was Vans’ pioneer shoe featuring leather panels and the iconic Sidestripe. Evolving from its origins, it’s become a canvas for popular releases.
Associated with music, especially rock and hip-hop, fashion icons like A$AP Rocky and Kanye West took a liking to them. The Old Skool’s simplicity and versatility make it one of the world’s most accessible fashion footwear, appealing to skaters and style enthusiasts alike. Its classic black and white version, one of the original 1977 colorways, remains a staple for any occasion.
Nike Air Max
The Nike Air Max is a true legend, renowned for its groundbreaking visible air cushioning technology and innovative design. Since its release in 1987, Air Maxes have continuously pushed the boundaries of comfort and quality. The visible air unit provides immaculate cushioning and serves as a bold statement of Nike’s innovation prowess.
The shoe's sleek silhouette and performance-driven features have made the Air Max a continued favorite and a key player for Nike for over thirty years. Models like the Air Max 90 and Air Max 97 have solidified its position. Welcomed by diverse subcultures and often collaborating with artists and designers, the Air Max has definitely upped its game.
Adidas Stan Smith
The Adidas Stan Smith has been revered since the 1960s. This classic has maintained its relevance thanks in part to its endorsement by tennis legend Stan Smith.
It has a minimalist aesthetic, premium leather construction, and signature perforated 3-stripes. Sneakerheads say it’s a versatile choice for any wardrobe. Last year, Adidas celebrated passing the 100 million mark for pairs of Stan Smith’s signature tennis sneakers sold.
Reebok Classic Leather
At a certain point, it seemed like everyone had a pair of Reebok Classics in their closet. These kicks have been a fixture in sneaker culture for decades, and for good reason. They originally hit shelves in 1983 as running shoes, but you can wear these shoes with any outfit, and they look good.
They’re also extremely comfortable and have a clean design that attracts buyers. Celebrities like Reese Witherspoon, Joe Jonas, and Gigi Hadid highlight their popularity and status as a must-have fashion item.
Nike Cortez
The Nike Cortez is a beloved classic with retro appeal. Introduced in 1972, it originated from Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman as the brand’s inaugural track shoe. Some of the most famous colorways are the “Yin Yang,” which is a black and white contrast; “Vivid Sulfur,” with a vibrant sulfur yellow to make the silhouette pop; and the “Forrest Gump,” red, white, and blue pair.
The lightweight and weatherproof design revolutionized the industry, appealing to athletes and casual wearers who wanted a comfy shoe that matched everything. Accumulating $800,000 in sales within its first year marked a significant triumph for Nike. Over time, the Cortez has maintained its prestige.
Puma Suede
The Puma Suede is considered one of Puma’s top sellers. Beginning in 1968, this sneaker has been a significant part of the footwear scene. The Suede has an interesting history in terms of cultural impact, from Tommie Smith’s protest at the 1968 Olympic Games to its adoption by b-boy crews in New York City in the 1980s. It’s a favorite across generations.
It’s hard to pinpoint specific sales figures for the Suede alone, but Puma’s overall footwear sales amount to billions each year. This timeless sneaker undoubtedly contributes to these sales with a soft suede upper and contrasting Formstrip branding along the sides with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic that consumers love.
New Balance 574
The New Balance 574 is a durable and comfortable shoe that offers an impressive range of colorways that cater to every taste. From subtle neutrals to bright splashes of color, these kicks have endless options for expressing personal style. The New Balance 574 sneakers stand out as a high-selling shoe and a prominent model within the brand’s lineup.
Regarded as the quintessential New Balance sneaker for many, buyers celebrate them for their versatility and reliability. Between the understated, ever-fresh design, these New Balances have secured their place among the all-time greats, becoming a must in countless sneaker collections since 1988. Renowned for their affordability, the 574s continue to be a huge success
Timberland Classic 6-Inch Boot
From 1973, the classic Timberlands have a rugged outdoor style that you'll see on people’s feet during the colder months. The boot’s design, featuring waterproof nubuck leather and hex-shaped brass eyelets, has remained consistent over the years.
There are many styles available, some unisex, some for women (with a heel), and in different colors. Timberlands are reliable and guarantee protection, style, and support in any environment. Commonly referred to as “Tims,” they are excellent for work or worn casually. You just know you should grab a pair for when hoodie season begins!
Birkenstock Arizona
Known for its anatomically shaped footbed, the Birkenstock Arizona sandal delivers unmatched comfort with every step. This signature feature molds to the contours of the foot, providing optimal support. Their popularity has surged since its creation in 1973, especially with the rise of remote work, making them a favored choice for many.
According to the global fashion platform Lyst, Birkenstocks were searched the most (+225%) of all shoes toward the end of 2020. The Arizonas continue to be top sellers for the brand, known for their iconic two-strap design across the top of the foot. The Arizona model accounts for one-third of all Birkenstock sandals sold, highlighting their widespread appeal.
Dr. Martens 1460
Such a sleek and beautiful boot is only matched by its remarkable durability. The Dr. Martens 1460 is a symbol of rebellious style and unwavering toughness. Made with premium materials, these combat boots are built to last. They came out in 1960 and quickly gained favor among the youth groups/movements like skinheads and punks.
You immediately recognize a pair of Doc Martens by the classic 8-eye silhouette, yellow welt stitching, and air-cushioned sole. In the fashion world, they’re synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll and pair well with dresses, skirts, shorts, and jeans—virtually any outfit. Whether you want to go bold or subtle, Dr Martens is an excellent choice.
Gucci Ace Sneaker
The Gucci Ace Sneaker epitomizes Italian luxury, sophistication, and refinement. Gucci crafted the shoe with meticulous attention to detail, from the Web stripe to the embroidered bee motif. Although this sneaker is quite young, making its first appearance in 2016, it was an overnight success.
The “Gucci” brand carries a certain level of prestige in and of itself, and the sneaker lives up to the hype. We love that you can dress them up or down for a casual chic, smart casual, or dressier vibe. Some of the most popular colors include classic white with green and red Web detail, black with gold bee embroidery, and metallic silver with the famous Gucci stripes.
Crocs Classic Clog
Crocs really don’t need an introduction—you literally see them everywhere! They’re very popular in the healthcare field, but at this point, you can find them in hair salons, on the feet of college students, busy stay-at-home moms, celebrities, babies, grandmas, and anyone else who loves practical footwear.
Crocs have a comfy, lightweight design, come in a zillion colors, you can bedazzle them, and they offer a lot of ventilation and room inside the shoe. Arriving in 2002, Crocs have left an undeniable mark on the industry. The company has sold over 300 million pairs in more than 90 countries.
Toms Alpargata
Armed with a philanthropic mission at its core, the Toms Alpargata is more than just a casual slip-on shoe (albeit one of the most comfortable shoes ever). Starting in 2006, for every pair sold, Toms donates a pair of shoes to someone in need, making each purchase a step towards positive change. These shoes embody the spirit of giving back, making them a favorite among socially-conscious consumers.
This high-end brand is definitely worth checking out! Due to its popularity, a lot of competitors have created low-cost lookalikes. Toms come in a wide range of colors and prints, catering to diverse tastes and styles.
Balenciaga Triple S
The Balenciaga Triple S is a high-fashion sneaker known for its bold and chunky silhouette, making it an instant statement piece in 2017. The Triple S has also been called a trendsetter in the “dad shoe” movement. It’s an intriguing shoe because the exaggerated sole and intricate layering pushes the boundaries of conventional footwear design.
You can pair them with streetwear or high-end couture. The Triple S model sparked the rise of the luxury sneaker market, now valued at hundreds of millions. It pairs well with oversized clothing for a more polished look or adds contrast to tailored pieces. A fixture on fashion week runways and in street style photos, this sneaker remains a coveted choice.
Yeezy Boost 350
You can recognize a pair of Yeezys from a mile away. The Yeezy Boost 350s, born from the collaboration between Kanye West and Adidas, came with much hype and exclusivity when we first saw them in 2015. They showcase innovation and limited availability, and each release generates immense anticipation and frenzy among sneaker lovers globally.
You can be either a fan of Kanye’s music, a devotee of urban fashion culture, or both; owning a pair of Yeezys is a must for your sneaker collection. Though we don’t know the exact revenue numbers, the “Black Red” version stands out as the most resold model on StockX, boasting over 70,000 resales.
Chuck Taylor All-Star II
The Chuck Taylor All-Star II represents an evolution of the classic Converse shoe. The Chuck II improves fit by securing the tongue with gore webbing, boosting comfort with padded micro-suede lining. The famous patch is fully embroidered, which goes away from the original stamped design on the upper.
Despite these 2015 updates, it retains the essential elements that have made the All-Star a hot-selling pair of kicks for decades. Loyal fans and newcomers alike love the brand and how it has continued to evolve and adapt to consumer preferences.
Nike Roshe Run
In 2012, the Nike Roshe Run gained popularity for its minimalist design and affordable price point. Inspired by Zen ideology, the shoe’s simplicity stood out in the market. The Nike Roshe Run is comfortable, lightweight, and breathable, with a stylish silhouette and unlimited versatility.
The Roshe Run provides a natural and flexible feel with every step so it’s a great choice for hitting the gym or casually running errands. It’s not among the all-time bestsellers like the Air Jordan 1 or Air Max series, it holds significance in sneaker history for its design and influence during its peak years.
Skechers Go Walk
When you think of a walking shoe, there are few that function as well as the Skechers Go Walk. The Skechers brand, in general, feels very underrated at times when it comes to a high-quality shoe that gets the job done.
It’s in a league of its own with the support and cushioned lining that allows you to power walk a few blocks or maintain a steady stroll for long distances. It feels like you’re walking on air! The series came out in 2011 and has been largely successful because of the focus put on the excellent arch support, wide toe box, and overall design.
Adidas Gazelle
Adidas launched the Gazelle in the 1960s as a training shoe with a suede or leather upper, the fabulous three-stripes branding, and a textured rubber outsole. It’s another one of those shoes that pairs seamlessly with various outfits, from jeans and shorts to trousers and everything in between.
The Adidas Gazelle has seen numerous limited-edition versions over the years, like the Adidas Gazelle Indoor Bad Bunny and the Adidas Gazelle SPZL. Both offer distinctive designs reminiscent of the shoe’s heritage. Despite sales declines over the years, the Gazelle remains an icon in sneaker culture, appreciated for its impact and style.
Air Jordan 11
The Jordan 11s, also known as the “Space Jams,” are probably. This retro model has patent leather detailing and responsive cushioning, and you can wear them with anything. Gracing shelves since 1995, Tinker Hatfield designed these shoes to symbolize Michael Jordan’s triumphant return to basketball and pursuit of his fourth NBA championship.
There are multiple colorways, like the “Cool Grey” iteration in 2021, and notable releases regularly. These are the shoes that people have stood in line for hours to get their hands on, for their collection, or to wear casually. The Air Jordan 11 Retros remain at the top of the shoe game and are the most popular Jordan shoes.