Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Footwear News

The 14 Best White Sneakers for Men, Tested by a Footwear Editor

Adam Mansuroglu
14 min read
Generate Key Takeaways

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Footwear News may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

More from Footwear News

Top Men's White Sneakers of 2024

Nike Zoom Vomero 5 White Shoes


Jump To Details

Buy Now at nike $160

Alo Yoga Alo Recovery Mode White Sneakers

Advertisement
Advertisement


Jump To Details

Buy Now at alo yoga $185

G/fore Men’s Gallivan2r T.P.U. Golf Shoes


Jump To Details

Buy Now at golf galaxy $164.49

adidas Handball Spezial White Shoes


Jump To Details

Buy Now at adidas $110

Crocs Echo Storm White Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at crocs $99.99

Nike Motiva White Walking Shoes


Jump To Details

Buy Now at nike $110

Cariuma Men’s Low Top Premium Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at cariuma $149

New Balance 550 Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at new balance $109.99

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at hoka $145

Rothy’s RS01 Sneakers


Jump To Details

Advertisement
Advertisement

Buy Now at rothy’s $179

Koio Men’s Capri Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at koio $245

Nike P-6000 Premium White Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at nike $120

Van Classic Slip-On Core White Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at zappos $60

adidas Stan Smith White Sneakers


Jump To Details

Buy Now at adidas $100

White sneakers are a total classic. Since the trend’s boom in 2014, the white casual shoe is considered the most versatile footwear item a man can add to his footwear rotation because it serves as a blank canvas that won’t clash with any type of outfit, even suiting (regardless of what GQ and the New York Times might say). “As a white sneaker lacks color, you don’t need to worry about them clashing with the rest of your look,” says Gavin Hui, buyer at Boston-based streetwear and sneaker boutique Bodega. “Therefore, you can pair the kicks with any outfit you come up with.” So, what’s new in the white sneaker world for men this year? It’s all about the classic, retro styles for effortlessly cool style.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Previously, the Stan Smith was a retro men’s white sneaker that reigned supreme, but with the explosion of interest in Gazelles and Sambas, as well as other timeless white sneaker styles like the Nike Cortez from “Forrest Gump” and the Nike Killshot 2s after the release of “Challengers,” there are more well-priced affordable white sneakers trending than every before.

Not all trending men’s white sneakers are old-school classics. Some of these men’s sneaker styles are also re-worked versions of Y2K running shoes, like the Nike P6000s and Vomero 5s that offer a rich textural mix (like classic dad shoes from New Balance) and a chunky silhouette with plush, comfortable cushioning.

Speaking of comfort, the most comfortable white sneakers for men are brand new releases with innovative technology to walk with ease, no matter how many steps you rack up in a day. Nike’s new Motiva walking shoes and Alo Yoga’s Recovery Mode sneaker are standouts for 2024.

Since summer is here, consider the most breathable shoes for all-day comfort, especially if you’re standing all day. Classic white canvas shoes from Cariuma and Vans have you covered, but if you’re looking to try something with a more flexible upper, men’s white sneakers with knit or mesh uppers should do the trick, like our favorites from Rothy’s and Lululemon.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Lastly, a clean, minimalist leather sneaker is always a solid must-have for men’s suiting, but with 2024 menswear trends flexing unique personal style, you have a bit of room to play with suiting and sneaker combinations — just make sure your suiting fits the modern menswear silhouettes of the moment (sorry, skinny suits).

As a shopping editor, sneaker enthusiast, and long-time menswear writer with a sneaker collection that’s spilled out of my closet with shoe boxes lining my bedroom, I can confidently say our edit of the best white sneakers for men is sure to fit your needs with guaranteed comfort and cool style.


Nike Zoom Vomero 5 White Shoes

Advertisement
Advertisement

$160 Buy Now at nike

Ah, the Nike Vomero 5s. These shoes became a hot style to snag in 2023, and their popularity continues to grow as the shoe brand releases more colorways, like these white beauties you see here. Originally released in 2010 as a Nike running shoe with Zoom Air cushioning, the style reemerged with a collaboration in 2018 with A-cold-wall*. Cut to last year, these popular men’s sneakers catapulted into popularity as a lifestyle shoe that continued to sell out in a flash with every new color release.

Unlike some Nike styles, the Vomero 5 actually feels pretty comfortable for those who need shoes for wide feet, thanks to ample space in the toe box. The mesh overlay on the upper not only provides a cool textural look, but it also makes these top white sneakers for men feel extremely breathable. Personally, I love the firm midsole support for my high arches, and the moderate cushioning has lasting power after countless long days of wear. Unlike a white leather sneaker, there’s no uncomfortable break in period with a padded collar. Plus, the sturdy heel counter provides extra stability for your daily walks.

When wearing a white sneaker, the small design details are key to create dimension and interest; this is where the Vomero stands out above the rest.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Price upon publish date of this article: $160


Alo Yoga Alo Recovery Mode White Sneakers

$185 Buy Now at alo yoga

There comes a time in every sneaker editor’s life when they simply won’t stop talking about their favorite new white sneaker — and that was most certainly the case with Alo Yoga’s Alo Recover Mode sneakers last year. First, I received several compliments at work, so that opened up the flood gates of endless praise for the new shoe. Since some of the editors at Footwear News didn’t get to test a pair yet (they sold out several times in a matter of minutes last year), many asked about the top white sneaker’s comfort — this is truly where my mouth wouldn’t stop moving.

Advertisement
Advertisement

To start, these comfortable white sneakers for men have the most incredible footbed that feels like a memory foam mattress, cradling achy, tired feet in need of relief. If a shoe could be considered a spa day for your feet, the Alo Recovery Mode sneaker might as well be renamed Canyon Ranch and come with a cucumber mask. The comfort is all in the shoe’s innovative construction. The recovery foam insole is supported by a sturdy heel counter and outsole (which has a trendy gum sole-look to it). The cushioning lasted for a surprisingly long time (we’re talking months of endless wear), and while they are still fine to wear today, I jumped at the opportunity to purchase a second pair.

This Alo Yoga white sneaker also has a durable and luxe-looking vegan leather upper, which stayed surprisingly clean after several wears (which also generated comments from co-workers). The only time these top white sneakers for men looked less than fresh was after several rainy, muddy days last fall, but they were incredibly easy to clean with Jason Markk sneaker cleaner (and yes, they still look brand new).

If you suffer from knee pain, back pain, or need a new pair of white walking shoes for men to run around a concrete jungle, Alo Yoga has just what you’re looking for.

Price upon publish date of this article: $185


G/fore Men’s Gallivan2r T.P.U. Golf Shoes

Advertisement
Advertisement

$164.49 Buy Now at golf galaxy

Tee off with modern style that’s sure to impress on the golf course. G/fore’s luxury golf shoe offerings allow young golf enthusiasts to embrace the sport with a dapper look and all the features a guy needs, from a breathable odor-reducing lining to a solid heel cap that keeps your feet locked into position. By the 18th hole, your feet will than you for choosing this lightweight, arch-supporting golf shoe.

Price upon publish date of this article: $164.49


adidas Handball Spezial White Shoes

$110 Buy Now at adidas

adidas’ classic handball shoe is the new top retro sneaker of 2024. If you love Gazelles and Samba shoes, the Spezial offers a similar level of comfort with a sleek look for guys who gravitate towards more subtle styles. The durable and well-priced trending white sneaker style for men is lightweight and flexible, making it a great everyday shoe style for your wardrobe.

Advertisement
Advertisement

This style that mixes both crisp white and off-white colorways will also age nicely with repeated wear. Sure, you might want to keep them clean for the office or a casual wedding shoe, but don’t be afraid to let these bad boys get dirty — it just increases its cool factor.

Price upon publish date of this article: $110


Crocs Echo Storm White Sneakers

$99.99 Buy Now at crocs

The Echo Storm is a cool white sneaker option for men who like to flex a bold shoe. The innovative look matches its sneaker tech with LiteRide technology for optimal comfort that makes your foot feel like it’s in the coziest of sleep beds, but if you tend to have sweaty feet, you might want to opt for Crocs’ comfy and stylish slides (I’m a big fan of the Mellow Recovery Slides) until September, as the neoprene liner will trap heat, much like a surfing wetsuit.

For lazy summer days and sneakers that double as comfy house shoes, these white stunners make your tired feet feel like they’re on a relaxing vacation.

Price upon publish date of this article: $99.99


Nike Motiva White Walking Shoes

$110 Buy Now at nike

These shoes, which I tested months ago, are still a top sneaker for heel strikers who need ample midsole support. It takes a minute of getting used to, but once you get a few steps in, you’ll want to wear these Motiva white sneakers on repeat. Whether you’re walking on a gravel path or solid concrete, the Motivas deliver ease with every stride. Plus, the tinted white colorway is ideal for masking light traces of dirt and scuff from your summer adventures.

Price upon publish date of this article: $110


Cariuma Men’s Low Top Premium Sneakers

$149 Buy Now at cariuma

Cariuma’s top-selling white men’s sneakers get the luxe treatment of supple, premium pebbled leather. While we highly recommend the sustainable shoe brand’s OCA Low with a white canvas upper, this simply sophisticated sneaker is worth adding to your office footwear lineup, as it pairs nicely with relaxed trousers and everyday chinos. Before you pack for your upcoming summer travels, make sure to grab a pair of these top white sneakers for men for city walks from day to night.

Price upon publish date of this article: $149


New Balance 550 Sneakers

$109.99 Buy Now at new balance

This old-school dad shoe is still a favorite white sneaker style that hits the mark (much like a good dad joke). A great sneaker style for men with medium width feet, the 550 offers everyday comfort that you can rely on with an affordable price to boot. Like some of our favorite classic sneaker styles, the 550 has a solid midsole, though it lacks extra plush cushioning some guys have become accustomed to in modern performance sneakers. It’s simply a low-profile option with low-risk of disappointment.

While some reviewers say it can run big, based on our testing, these top white men’s shoes run true to size.

Price upon publish date of this article: $109.99


Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

$145 Buy Now at hoka

$145 Buy Now at nordstrom

A cushioned running shoe in a crisp white colorway makes your gym gear look fresh and new, especially when paired with a white crew sock. Hoka’s Clifton 9 is a favorite for Footwear News editors — along with the brand’s die-hard following of runners — for its lightweight feel, great stability, and roomy toe box. The rocker bottom is also great for those with plantar fasciitis and heel strikers (like this writer). Whether you’re training to improve your PRs or need a travel shoe for upcoming summer junkets, you’ll get a lot of mileage out of the Clifton 9s.

Price upon publish date of this article: $145


Rothy’s RS01 Sneakers

$179 Buy Now at rothy’s

Rothy’s RS01s are always a great recommendation for the guy who wants a business-casual sneaker that’s not leather. These top machine-washable shoes have the breathable knit upper to let your barking dogs breathe on a hot summer day and a low-profile look to pair with chinos or jeans. The white and khaki color combination provides some depth and interest on the upper for a simply stunning men’s walking shoe with adjust charcoal laces that pop against a white backdrop. Plus, the padded collar allows guys to wear them comfortable right out of the box with no worries about a break-in period. If you’re looking for a good shoe to wear with no-show socks for men or no socks at all, Rothy’s white sneakers might be just what you’re looking for.

Price upon publish date of this article: $179


Koio Men’s Capri Sneakers

$245 Buy Now at koio

Koio’s best-selling men’s white leather sneakers are a classic must-have for any guy’s shoe game. While there’s been a bit of a debate about whether guys can wear sneakers with suits, we say to ignore the noise and step confidently in these handcrafted, Italian-made sneakers with an Ortholite Hybrid insole for cool and comfortable style to wear with a relaxed suit or weekend wear. Sure, a guy on a budget can opt for a slightly more affordable pair of white leather shoes, but for the quality craftsmanship and fine details, Koio Capris are most assuredly worth the splurge.

Price upon publish date of this article: $245


Nike P-6000 Premium White Sneakers

$120 Buy Now at nike

The P-6000 has become one of this author’s favorite sneakers of the moment (yes, I own three pairs of the shoe style). It has the Y2K-inspired runner silhouette that’s trending in men’s lifestyle footwear with a responsive underfoot foam, a lightweight feel, and a textural upper of mesh and synthetic overlays. The shoe inspired by the Air Pegasus 2006 and Pegasus 25 offers great traction, breathability, and versatility to be worn with any outfit equation in mind. I’ve sported these cool kicks for months and they still offer that fresh-out-of-the-box feel, which makes them a great investment for summer and beyond.

Price upon publish date of this article: $120


Van Classic Slip-On Core White Sneakers

$60 Buy Now at zappos

What’s old is cool again, and that includes the Vans Classic Slip-Ons in white. Buy a pair now and let them get scuffed and stained with the marks of great summer adventures. The lived-in look adds to the shoe’s cool factor effortlessly. For an incredibly affordable price, these durable shoes are great for guys who don’t want to fuss over summer footwear.

Price upon publish date of this article: $60


adidas Stan Smith White Sneakers

$100 Buy Now at adidas

Ah, the Stan Smith. A classic worn by many — and possibly even more adidas lovers this summer due to the popularity of tennis and pickleball shoes. You most likely have owned a pair at least once since its 2010s resurgence, so consider this more of a reminder that the Stan Smith shoe, a shoe that sits on the upper echelon of iconic sneakers, is always a fine choice. For men who seek a trusty, timeless white shoe for summer, there’s no need to second guess adding Stan Smiths to your e-cart.

Price upon publish date of this article: $100

Why Trust Footwear News

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Expert

white sneaker expert Gavin Hui
white sneaker expert Gavin Hui

Gavin Hui is a buyer at Boston-based streetwear and sneaker boutique Bodega. Hui has over seven years of merchandising experience working with top sneaker brands and men’s luxury fashion.

Meet the Author

Adam Mansuroglu is the Director of Commerce for Footwear News and WWD, overseeing strategy for shopping content on both brands, along with writing and editing shopping guides, product reviews, and shopping trend stories for all types of footwear, from designer shoes to athletic sneakers for both men and women. Prior to his current role, Mansuroglu was a fashion editor and stylist at Cosmopolitan Magazine, Style Editor at BestProducts.com, and Senior Style & Gear Editor for Men’s Health Magazine, where he edited the annual Men’s Health Sneaker Awards. Mansuroglu has been tapped as a shopping expert for editorial websites such as Wirecutter, and his writing has also appeared in Out Magazine, Esquire and other publications. Mansuroglu personally tested all men’s white sneakers featured in this story, along with dozens of other shoes throughout his 15-year-plus editorial career.

Best of Footwear News

Sign up for FN's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Solve the daily Crossword

The daily Crossword was played 11,212 times last week. Can you solve it faster than others?
CrosswordCrossword
Crossword
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement