Whether you’re new to the world of sneakers (Hi ‘best 2019 sneakers’, google searcher), or have been a sneaker head since the 80s, there are a few urban sneaker styles that are must-have in 2019. To have a well-rounded rotation, one cannot simply wear just one style of sneaker and combine with everything. So, we’ve picked 5 types of sneakers that everyone needs in their wardrobe.
These sneakers have to be readily available at retail, ideally all year round. This rules out colabs and limited edition releases. They also must be produced in both men’s and women’s sizes.
The Grandfather of Skate Sneakers, aka The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
Introduces in 1917 (yes, they are over 100 years old), the Converse Chuck Taylor shoe model can be considered as a truly timeless skateboarding shoe model. They’ve been worn by literally everyone among us and through the years and are one of the few sneakers that actually pair well with anything from various types of jeans and cargo pants to every type of dresses and skirts. Where possible, always get the Chuck 70 variant as they will get that chill vibe to your outfit.
The legendary Adidas Tennis Shoes, aka Adidas Superstars
Over time, leather athletic styles like the Adidas Superstar and Stan Smith moved from the court to the streets. These Adidas classic shoes enjoy a cyclical wave of popularity every few years, but they have always been omnipresent into the urban culture. They’re sneakers that don’t discriminate: regular Joes and Joannes see them as a simple, clean sneaker to wear, while streetwear fashion fans appreciate the heritage.
The Aesthetic Sporty Trainers
The ‘Dad Shoes’ trend may eventually go away, but for all ‘’Nike Air Monarch’’ fans they are here to stay. For the 90s and 80s generations, the ”dad sneakers” may be seen like some sort of ironic play into chunky aesthetic footwear trend. For those not ready to commit to the aesthetic Nike Air Monarch or Nike Air Monarch M2K Tekno, small sneaker brands offers solid alternatives.
The Urban Basketball Sneakers, aka Nike Air Force
When we think about urban sneakers, the first think that came into our mind are the Nike Air Force 1s. That’s it. It’s one of the best-selling shoes ever. Introduced in the 80s, brought back in the early 90s, then propelled into stardom with Nelly’s blinged-out ode to the sneaker named in reference to the presidential plane. No one is expected to emulate Dame Dash, who allegedly only wore AF-1s once before tossing them, but try to keep them clean. White-on-whites are the default option, and a crispy pair will get anyone hooked.
The American Father Of Everything Skateboarding, aka Vans Checkerboard Slip On Shoe
Basically, any model by Vans is a cult piece of a shoe art. Yes, the classics black & white Vans Old Skool may be the default sneaker of choice for everyone but give the Classic Slip-On (CSO) a chance. All the shoes on this list so far have laces, but the the elastic gussets of the CSO come as a blessing. Keep a checkerboard-patterned pair stashed away in case there is a ska-punk revival.
