If you’re in the market for an alternative to your white kicks then opting for black is the way to go.
Offering the same versatility as white but without the cleaning admin, black trainers will stay fresher for longer and won’t give you the dirt-induced anxiety when you’re out and about. You could even wake up after a night at the dingiest of clubs and after a quick wipe they’d be looking squeaky clean.
And let’s face it, after nearly two years spent living in sliders or trainers, our feet aren’t going to appreciate the hard leather of a pair of oxfords or brogues. Enter the black trainer, which is a sleek, sophisticated and streamlined alternative, with much better levels of comfort.
Pair a classic leather pair from Grenson or Common Projects with an all-black look for a smart evening outfit, or if you’re going for a more casual affair, look to the Nikes and Vejas of the world for a sporty pair to wear with work pants and a T-shirt.
Some brands, like New Balance and Converse, offer trainers with timeless vintage appeal, whilst others, like Axel Arigato and Solomon are experts in a more futuristic style. At least you can guarantee, whatever the brand, the colour offers maximum versatility so you’ll be hard pushed finding an outfit they won’t work with.
We’ve rounded up the best available to buy now, so keep scrolling and you’ll be strutting your stuff in a fresh pair of kicks in no time.
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Adidas X Wales Bonner Country leather trainers
Inspired by 1970s football kits, Grace Wales Bonner’s latest iteration of Adidas kicks are in-line with her sepia-toned nostalgic aesthetic. With her signature topstich contrast threading and a gum sole, these are a retro update of an Adidas classic.
Buy now £160.00, MatchesFashion
Axel Arigato Marathon Runner
Although Axel Arigato’s Marathon Runners are inspired by a 90’s running shoe silhouette, they’re intended for anything but playing sport. The exaggerated sole and mesh lining makes them perfect for a stylish sporty look.
Buy now £230.00, Axel Arigato
Common Projects BBall Leather Sneakers
Similar to their classic Achilles trainers, Common Projects’ BBall sneakers are instead made from smooth leather panels with a perforated toe box which gives them a sportier feel. Of course, finished off with their signature golden serial number stamp. Great for a smart evening outfit.
Buy now £280.00, Mr Porter
Reebok Royal Glide in Core Black / Cloud White / Collegiate Gold
Part of Reebok’s Royal Classic collection, these kicks have a vintage appeal with the low-cut silhouette and 80’s inspired detailing. The white contrast with orange piping will add a pop of colour to your casual look.
Buy now £50.00, Reebok
Converse Chuck 70 Vintage Canvas
Perhaps the most iconic high-top on the market, Converse’s Chuck 70s will forever be a classic. Beginning life on the basketball court in the late 1960s, the star patch and classic black and white colourway turns up the shoe’s iconic, vintage style.
Buy now £80.00, Converse
New Balance 574
With a fanbase that includes Leonardo Di Caprio, Timothée Chalamet, and Justin Bieber, you can’t go wrong with a pair of New Balance sneakers. King of the dad trainer trend, their 574s live up to the rep, and if you’re looking for something cool yet comfortable, these are the ones for you.
Buy now £75.00, New Balance
Nike Air Force 1 '07
Nike’s Air Force 1’s should be a staple in every man’s wardrobe. This black style with an extra blue Swoosh tick offers a fresh spin on the classic. Double the Swooshes, double the fun.
Buy now £114.95, Nike
Salomon S/Lab Black XA Pro 3D Low Top Sneakers
Originally made as running shoes, these Salomon trainers will look great on and off the track. Revamped with modern materials and an updated mesh pattern, the XA PRO 3D is a tribute to one of Salomon’s best-selling trail running shoes.
Buy now £120.00, Browns Fashion
Grenson MEN’S SNEAKER 1
Dating back to 1866, Grenson are experts in the shoe industry. Crafted using black leather, their sneaker 1 is the perfect alternative to brogues or oxfords - you could even wear them with a suit.
Buy now £220.00, Grenson
Veja Nova HT Canvas Black Pierre
As the front-runner in the ethical sneaker market, Veja create its trainers using recycled and ethical fabrics without chemicals or pollution. Their high-top Novas are no exception and would make a great addition to any trainer collection.
Buy now £90.00, Office
