Black Sneakers Will Always Be a Wardrobe Staple (2024)

Cariuma All Black Canvas Sneaker

This pair of black low-top sneakers from Cariuma has nearly 5,000 five-star reviews. "Literally like I imagine walking on a cloud would feel, and they go with everything," said one glowing reviewer. While I love the black color, it comes in 17 other options and women's shoe sizes 5 through 13. The sole is made from raw, natural rubber, and the insole is made from vegan cork memory foam. Plus, if canvas sneakers are too casual for your style, you can shop them in more luxe fabrications like suede or leather.

Pros:Fits true to size; Comes in 10+ colors; comes in a wide size range; Sustainably made.

Cons:Some customers say there is a slight break-in period.

Customer Review:"Love the fit and the comfort and the look. The perfect shoe for wearing with dresses or shorts, or linen pants. Highly recommended!" — Cariuma

New Balance 574 Core Sneakers

New Balance sneakers have earned a reputation for being supremely comfortable, so prepare never to want to take this pair off. The squishy-yet-supportive sole makes them great work sneakers if you're commuting into the office again or will be on your feet for hours at a time. Plus, they're effortlessly stylish. Shop them in women's sizes 5 through 12 (they run true-to-size) and in four other neutral colors. The upper is also made from 50 percent recycled materials, a major bonus.

Pros:Comes in several colors; Comes in an inclusive size range.

Cons:Some reviewers say they run a bit small.

Customer Review:"These are the best everyday sneakers. They go with everything, they're comfy, and elevate every outfit." — New Balance

Superga Cotu Sneakers

"Italian shoe brand Superga has been one of my longtime favorites for its no-fuss, comfortable silhouettes. I'm exchanging my dirty white pair for a fresh new pair of black ones this winter. They're comfortable, run true to size so that my smaller foot fits perfectly, and come in many colors. Plus, at $65, they're so affordable." — J.M.

Pros: Easy to clean; Affordably priced; Comes in tons of other colors; Lightweight; Editor-approved; Comes in half-sizes.

Cons: Runs large.

Customer Review: "Love these sneakers! They go great with so many outfits. That's why I had to get a second pair. The quality is good too. I've washed them several times, and they go through the wash well. As for size, they were true to size for me." — Superga

Chloé Nama Mixed Media Platform Sneakers

This chunky yet lightweight pair of black sneakers by Chloé is beloved across the internet for their woven look and subtle branding. The thicker rubber sole adds contrast while keeping them wearable in just about any circ*mstance, from the office to a night out. Plus, 40 percent of this shoe is made from 100 percent recycled debris. Moreover, the mesh panels are handstitched and are made from recycled polyester yarns. Marie Claire's Style Director, Sara Holzman, even wrote an entire review about how these Chloé sneakers are worth the investment.

Pros: Sustainably made; Editor-approved; Comfortable.

Cons: Runs a little large; Doesn't come in half-sizes.

Adidas Vegan Samba Sneaker

"Behold, the pair of shoes that Hollywood can't stop wearing. Along with Kendall and Bella, models like Kaia Gerber and Kate Moss have been spotted in this $100 shoe. I own these in this black colorway and have found them to be one of the most comfortable pairs of sneakers I own, if notthemost comfortable. They're low profile, casual with baggy jeans, and easy enough to dress up with a maxi or mini skirt. I could not recommend them more. My only con? They run big, so my size 5 foot has to wear a child's size four-and-a-half." — Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor.

Pros:No break-in time; Lightweight; Comes in sizes 5 through 15.

Cons:Runs big.

Customer Reviews:"Clean and timeless Can be narrow for wider feet like me would recommend a size up or half a size up but overall worth it" — Adidas

ON Cloudnova Sneaker

If you're looking for a pair of running sneakers that a) don't look like running sneakers and b) are low-profile enough to wear all day long, these are the ones for you. Top-rated for comfort, they combine the support of a traditional running shoe with the sleek, fashionable silhouette of a trendier sneaker. Reviewers love them because they're lightweight and super supportive, thanks to the built-in arch support. However, some reviewers noted a break-in period with these shoes.

Pros: Comfortable; Lightweight; Top-rated; Come in half-sizes; Fits true-to-size.

Cons: Some reviewers found the tongue longer than most, causing it to rub on their ankles.

Vans Old Skool Sneakers

You probably wore these Vans Old Skool low-top sneakers back in high school. You probably repurchased them when they made a fashionable resurgence online in 2019. This sturdy shoe (once meant only for skateboarding) is made to be lived in, so don't be afraid to wear them down. Shop them in women's shoe sizes 5 through 11 and in three colors.

Pros:Great for wide feet; Comfortable; Run-true-to-size.

Cons:Some reviewers say there's a break-in period.

Customer Review:"Classic, cute, and comfortable. They fit true to size and are accommodating for wide feet. These shoes last a long time and clean pretty well, too." — Nordstrom

APL Athletic Propulsion Labs Techloom Pro Sneakers

These sleek athletic sneakers from APL Athletic Propulsion Labs are made with mesh and neoprene for the ideal balance between support and comfort. The rubber sole keeps the shoe lightweight. They're great for high-intensity workouts because they're so sturdy; pick them if you want a worthwhile investment.

Pros:Runs true-to-size; Lightweight.

Cons:Costs over $100; Some reviewers say they have a break-in period.

Customer Review:"Love the aesthetic of this shoe. It rubbed my heels a little bit initially, but it's getting better, and the shoe is forming to my feet more. They are lightweight and easy to slip on and off. I have been running in them and also doing strength training. Can't recommend them enough!" — APL

Maison Margiela Black Leather Tabi Low-Top Sneakers

Maison Margiela's Tabi range of shoes is some of the most divisive on the market, but I love this pair of sneakers. The separated toe design is instantly recognizable and supremely comfortable, despite how it might look! They're made in Italy and are available in sizes 35 through 41. They're the shoes that your fashionable friend will wear all winter long.

Pros:Lightweight; Made from genuine leather.

Cons:Costs over $100.

Vans UA Classic Slip On Sneakers

Long live the Vans Slip-On Sneaker. This pair is a staple in the closets of cool kids everywhere, thanks to its no-fuss design and cushioned sole for added support. Designed for skating, they're affordable and sturdy, which means they're great for wearing all day long. They're available to shop in women's sizes 5 through 12, including half-sizes.

Pros: Top-rated; Comes in half-sizes; Easily-washable; Runs true-to-size; Affordably priced.

Cons: Is in the narrow side.

Vince Suede Warren Sneaker

Consider this suede pair from VINCE if you're looking for a slip-on sneaker that feels more elevated than one made from canvas. The slightly-platformed sole gives this otherwise simple pair of sneakers a little lift. They are also available in a rich caramel shade if you want to double up on the comfort. Shop them in women's shoe sizes 5 through 11.

Pros:100% Suede; Runs true-to-size.

Cons:Costs over $100.

Adidas Gazelle Shoes

These black shoes are coming in hot as one of summer 2023's most favorite silhouettes. While the Samba from Adidas remains popular (and a personal fave), this suede pair went viral after Harry Styles wore a customized pair to the Grammys this year. Since then, they've been spotted with fellow A-listers like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner. They have the same '90s silhouette as some of the other low-profile shoes on the market but are made in this chic suede material.

Pros: Durable; Top-rated; Comes in half-sizes;

Cons: Some reviewers say they run a half-size small.

Customer Review: "I love the materials, the darkest black I have had in shoes, and they are comfortable." — Adidas

x Converse Gender Inclusive Chuck Taylor® Heart High Top Sneaker

This pair of black canvas high-top sneakers from Converse's ongoing best-selling collection with Comme des Garçons PLAY is adorned with signature heart motifs. While they're cute for Valentine's Day, I would wear them all year round. While the black pair is very chic, they're also available in a buttercream colorway. You can shop them in women's sizes five through 12, which are similar to Converse's—true to size! One of the only downsides? They don't come in half sizes.

Pros: Comes in an extensive size range; Runs true to size; Comes in two colors.

Cons: No half-sizes.

The Lace Up Sneaker Black

Let it be known that team Marie Claire loves Rothy's. We've reviewed their ballet flats and their Mary Janes and their black lug-sole boots, so we love their sneakers. They come in a few other colors including gray, tan, white, and pink. Just like the rest of the range, these black sneakers are machine-washable and they're made with roughly 18 plastic bottles per pair. Oh—and they retail for less than $200 and received top reviews for their durability and the fact that they last a long time.

Pros: Come in multiple colors; Comes in half-sizes; Durable; Top-rated; Under-$200.

Cons: Some reviewers called them uncomfortable.

Ball Star Nappa Upper Glitter Star Suede Heel Sneakers

A diamond's gotta shine! This pair of black sneakers from Golden Goose is adorned with a touch of glitter, making them what I would call a "formal sneaker"—perfect for wearing to the office or on a night out instead of a heeled bootie. Just like the rest of Golden Gooses' splurge-worthy shoe range, these sneakers have a sturdy rubber sole and a removable insole. They also feature a terry lining on the inside for added comfort. If you're looking for a sneaker that feels a little more formal but still look low-key, these are for you.

Pros: Have a rubber sole; Has a removable insole; Made from leather.

Cons: No half-sizes

Sam Edelman Ethyl Lace-Up Sneaker

We've raved about the white version of this pair of Sam Edelman sneakers, so why not obsess over the black pair too? They're available in half sizes and come in at under $100. Reviewers love them because they run true to size and are comfortable enough to wear from day to night. Shoppers also love wearing them for work because they' look polished and clean no matter how many times you wear them. One reviewer said that they are "Very comfortable and love the small platform. They came laced up just how they look in the pics which was really nice because I can never get the professional photo look!"

Pros: Come in half-sizes; Priced under-$100; Comfortable for all-day wear; Top-rated.

Cons: Some reviewers said there is a break-in period.

FENTY x PUMA Creeper Phatty Women's Sneakers

Rihanna is back with her latest Fenty x PUMA sneaker, and it's a revamped version of her iconic Creeper. This sneaker was one of 2023's hottest shoe launches when it debuted and, as someone who personally owns them, I can say they're worth the hype. They come in a few colors like a raspberry-and-red combination that's so fun for the spring and summer, but this black-and-white version is perfect for my mostly-neutral wardrobe. They come in half-sizes and are well-priced at under $150.

Pros: Run true-to-size; Comes in half-sizes; Comes in other colors.

Cons: There is a break-in period.

Tory Burch Good Luck Trainer Sneakers

For a chunky sneaker that's on the sportier side, look no further than the Tory Burch Good Luck Trainer Sneakers. They're not entirely black, which makes them wearable for the summer months. From the white platform to the cream-colored accents on the front of the design, they're the ideal sneakers for wearing with leggings to the gym or with a more formal outfit. They're also available in a size 4 and a size 4.5, which is rare (and a win if you have a smaller foot). You can also shop them in sizes up to a size 13.5. Many reviewers also note that they run true-to-size and are lightweight on your feet.

Pros: Comes in sizes four through 13; Comes in half-sizes; Has a rubber sole; Comes in other colors; Runs true-to-size.

Cons: Some reviewers say they run a half-size small.

Isabel Marant Beth Sneakers

If you love slip-on sneakers and you want something with a little more effort to get on (but not quite as much effort as actual laces), these are for you. Isabel Marant's Beth Sneakers have been a cult-favorite for a while, so you know they won't be going out of style any time soon. They're made from a luxe suede material and feature the iconic Isabel Marant logo on the side. They don't come in half-sizes but are available in sizes 35 through 41. The brand does note that they run true to size. If you prefer a leather sneaker, they also come in that fabrication, too.

Pros: Runs true-to-size; Come in either suede or leather.

Cons: No half-sizes