Ramp Up Your Style Quotient Without Compromising on Comfort: Check out the Best Sneakers for Men and Everything You Need to Know About Sneakers Before Buying (2022)

The word “sneakers” is derived from the word “sneak” or to move around stealthily without making any noise. The origin of sneakers was in shoes made of canvas uppers and flat soles made of rubber which were extraordinarily silent (and hence the word “sneakers”) and comfortable. In the beginning, sneakers were worn by sports person but gradually they gained tremendous popularity due to their comfort and durability, and today they are considered casual shoes worn for a variety of different purposes and occasions.

With time sneakers have also evolved and are today available in a variety of materials (both for the uppers and the soles), designs, trends and styles. Sneakers are broadly classified into 3 types – low tops, mid tops and high tops, depending on at which point they end between your ankles and knees.

There are several reasons behind the popularity of sneakers. Some of the most important ones are:

If there is any Indian brand that has grown synonymous with good quality, comfortable and reliable footwear, it's Liberty. Known for its comfort, durability and simplistic design, the Gliders Men's Eagle-1 Sneakers are another one of their wonderful creations. Endowed with a lightweight mesh inner fabric and extra-durable high-quality rubber soles, the sneakers are not just stylish but jam-packed with practical properties like easy-to-clean and anti-slip. Not only does the mesh fabric make the sneakers more breathable, but the high-quality rubber soles also provide a strong grip during running or walking. The pair is available in 2 colour variants – navy blue and grey. Available for ₹ 409.00 on Amazon.

Sparx is a range of footwear from the house of Relaxo Footwear Ltd. which targets the youth and produces stylish and durable designs. It is a collection line designed to match the latest trends in the footwear industry which is an outcome of stellar innovation and delivers high-end quality. This offering from Sparx is specially designed for those of you who dare to explore the world. With the outer material being a very breathable polyurethane mesh, the rubber soles offer a good grip. While the lace-up closure style provides a snug fit, the slight heel helps uplift the bottom hem of your clothes and keeps it away from the grime and dust of the ground. A perfect combination of comfort, style, and workmanship, this pair is all about confidence and making a fashion statement. This is available for ₹ 602.00 on Amazon.

Even though Bata is headquartered in Switzerland it is undoubtedly the most popular and affordable footwear brand in India for decades. You will hardly meet anyone who has not heard of Bata in India. These sneakers from Bata have their classic vintage tennis shoes design in blue colour. The outer material is faux leather whereas the sole is made of rubber. The sneakers also feature a shockproof arch support system in the insole. Perfect for a game of tennis or a casual day out, you can buy these sneakers from Amazon for ₹ 414.00.

Highlander is another home-grown brand in the footwear space which has gained prominence in recent years. These white sneakers for men have a synthetic leather upper, a round toe and a rubber sole. The outsole is textured and patterned whereas the insole is adequately cushioned to provide extreme comfort. The sneakers come with a lace-up closure ensuring a snug fit. They are a perfect match to go along with formal or casual trousers and a blazer to complete your look. Priced at ₹ 995.00 you can buy them from Myntra.

Despite being primarily a clothing brand, UCB has diversified and made quite a mark in the world of footwear as well, and this offering by the brand poses tough competition on the list. Slip-on and simple, these sneakers are the very definition of what the brand stands for. While the simplicity of the design makes the footwear easy to blend into all styles, the modest blue will appeal to the fashion-conscious crowd. Don't let the simplicity fool you though. To keep the pair lightweight and extremely comfortable, the upper fabric is canvas and the soles are constructed from rubber. Be it a day at work, a casual evening or a lazy day out, this UCB pair will never let you down. Available in 2 other colours you can check out this pair of sneakers on Amazon for ₹ 1,249.00.

One of the sharpest pairs in this list, U.S. Polo Assn. White Clarkin Sneakers for men are not just a visual delight but also extremely comfortable. Apart from a lightweight canvas outer fabric, the sneakers feature a cushioned foot-bed for improved comfort. The textured/patterned outsole promises an enhanced grip. The pair is easy to clean with the canvas fabric only needing a wipe or two now and then with a dry cloth and the lace-up closure provides a snug fit. The round-toe sneakers come with a 3 months warranty and can be purchased from Myntra for ₹ 1,799.00.

When it comes to fitness, sports and performance, Reebok is a name to reckon with. Irrespective of where you belong – the performance-intensive sports arena, the fitness-obsessed gym squad or the amateur sports person, Reebok shoes are designed to deliver optimum performance on the field. This pair of sneakers, for example, has been designed keeping in mind the everyday hassles as well as keeping you upbeat. So, whether it is a formal outing or a fitness regime to be completed, the pair, with its polyurethane and textile upper material and lightweight rubber sole, will enable high breathability, optimum sweat management, and maximise your performance and comfort. Weighing 900 gm this pair of sneakers is available on Amazon for ₹ 1,374.00.

Though Bacca Bucci is a relatively newer and a slightly lesser known brand compared to the rest of the sneaker brands on this list, this pair by the brand is a hefty package when it comes to style and technology. With the application of skin-friendly polyurethane (PU) and thermoplastic rubber (TPR) in the outsole for an optimal comfortable and lightweight feeling, the pair is a perfect fusion of sports and fashion.

While the high-quality rubber sole has vertical and horizontal flex grooves which give flexibility of movement in all directions, it also makes them crease-resistant and easier to clean. Owing to its silver antimicrobial lining, the shoes also boast of anti-odour technology applied to the foot-bed, which is usually a hotbed for bacteria and odour-producing microbes. These sneakers are available for ₹ 1,198.00 on Amazon.

Red Tape is another modern brand growing in popularity amongst the youth. If you want subdued yet something that makes a statement, you can count on Red Tape. With a synthetic upper, and a textured and patterned outsole, the shoes are available in a striking military/olive green. With lace closure type for a snug fit and a low-top design, there’s no going wrong with this style of sneakers. Apart from being extremely comfortable due to their cushioned soles, they are also very easy to maintain, and only require a leather conditioner to be wiped and cleaned with from time to time. You can style these with your favourite pair of jeans, formal trousers and any T-shirt to complete a semi-casual look. Priced at ₹ 1,439.00 you can buy them from Myntra.

Started by Myntra in 2013, one of the fastest-growing fashion brands in the country, Mast & Harbour has grown to become one of the most popular brands amongst Indian youth particularly the millennials. When it comes to footwear, they are steadily gaining an edge over many well-known brands in India. This offering comes in wake of the growing sneaker movement in the country. Available in classic white contrasting with a blood red tongue textured with the brand logo, the sneakers have a round-toe style. The sneakers feature a cushioned foot-bed, lace closure for a snug fit and a PU perforated upper for enhanced breathability. It's a perfect fusion of comfort and style. Check out these sneakers on Myntra for ₹ 1,349.00.

Aeropostale, also known as Aero, despite being an American shopping mall-based retailer of casual apparel and accessories has established itself firmly in India as well. Today, by principally targeting young adults, Aeropostale has succeeded in creating a niche for itself in the footwear section too. Simplicity fused with class and elegance is the trademark of Aeropostale products. And here is another one of the classic signature offerings of the brand.

A pure white pair of sneakers, with the brand’s bright tricolour identity at the base of the heel. The white sneakers coincide perfectly with any combination of clothing from ethnic to true formals to semi-casual and casual. A truly snug fit provided by the lace closure and a cushioned foot-bed to ensure comfort, the pair promises to be a truly versatile footwear. Priced at ₹ 1,477.00 you can buy these sneakers from Amazon.

Although US Polo Association has always been the gold standard for men’s T-shirts, they have been recently gaining an equally profound status in the footwear industry. Owing to their minimalist design and superior construction, US Polo Association’s colour-block stylish fashion sneakers have grown quite popular amongst Indian youth. Framed with structured insoles for a 24*7 cushioning pattern, a flexible outsole that flexes with your feet and a flat sole which provides a superior grip and greater traction, the pair has been designed keeping comfort and regular wear in mind. Pair them up with your athleisure, or even semi-formals. Prices start from ₹ 1,500.00 on Amazon.

This pair by DOC is one of the most premium footwear on this list. And we’ll tell you why! Starting with the faux leather upper and the soft skin fit lining, going onto the thermoplastic rubber outsole, the sneakers feature a lace-up closure. The sneakers are easy to wear and comfortable to use. They also have supportive insoles, which fit well to protect your ankles. As per the brand’s designer, they have been designed to fit a wide range of occasions, starting from sports and outdoor activities like jogging, hiking, cycling and semi-casual ones like parties, hiking, traveling and even more formal occasions as well. The camouflage design laces on top of the pure white faux leather gives the sneakers a spectacular look. Priced at ₹ 1,499.00 you can buy these sneakers from Amazon.

Established in 1966 by the Van Doren brothers, Vans is a renowned international brand in the world of sneakers today. One of the most classic pairs of sneakers on this list, Vans Era Sneakers for Men takes you trotting back to your early school days. The classic sneakers redesigned to fit everyday life are how they can be described best. A classic silhouette complete with the intricate stitching lines has been brought together with an updated lightweight canvas. The rubber soles, with their multiple groove design promise an enhanced grip and security from slipping. The lace-up closure sneakers available in white and true white colours can be checked out on Flipkart for ₹ 2,999.00.

Looking for something casual yet sharp and tangy? This pair of sneakers by Converse is just the thing for you! With the majority constructed out of breathable and lightweight canvas, the sneakers have been artfully designed to be for the up-and-running. Leisure combined with functionality, and speed coalesced with elegance, the lace-up closure style collaborates with a low ankle height to bring together something easy to fit and quick to adapt to. Highly durable yet lightweight rubber soles complete these perfect everyday wear sneakers. Available in more than 15 different colours and styles, you can check them out on Amazon for ₹ 2,785.00 onwards.

Sustainability is on the rise and along with it the green manufacturing of footwear. This pair may become your first step towards sustainability for many reasons. Apart from being the only footwear in India to be made with 100% recycled PET bottles, Neeman’s Relive Knit Casual Sneakers pose a tough competition to other options on this list in many ways. Confirmed to be one of the lightest footwear in the market due to its material (weighing only 700 gm), it also happens to be the most comfortable. Due to the fabric’s softness and capacity to stretch and adapt effortlessly to almost any foot shape, it makes for the most comfortable and effortless footwear experience available in the market right now. Other than being easy maintenance, water-resistant and machine washable, the shoes have cushioned breathable insoles that enhance your comfort over long durations. All in all, a powerful package and worth every penny. Priced at ₹ 2,804.00 you can check them out on Amazon.

While Lee Cooper has been a household brand synonymous for all things denim, today, it is also making a name in the footwear industry. This offering by Lee Cooper is one of their signature pieces, reflecting the brand’s core aesthetics. Simple, casual and yet versatile. While the complete white makes it easy for the pair to stand out as well as compliment almost all styles of clothing, the exquisite stitching lines add a touch of elegance and sophistication. The stitch details also highlight the intricate panelling work done on the synthetic upper. With an exterior so beautiful, the inside is jam-packed with comfort pockets, a well-cushioned foot-bed and a long-lasting TPR rubber sole. Due to their synthetic uppers, the shoes are easy to maintain only needing a swipe or two now and then. Priced at ₹ 2,899.00 you can check these out on Ajio.

Puma alongside Adidas and Nike is well known for its signature collection lines. Another one of these is the Puma Ralph Sampson Vulc Sneakers, named after the legendary basketball’s Hall of Fame player. Sleek, low top and vulcanised, this particular silhouette was a legend on the basketball court. Today, this particular style has been adapted to become an icon on the street. While a perforated leather upper provides enhanced protection and breathability, the rubber outsole ensures superior grip. The sleek design is also bridled with the trademark Puma form-strip and other branding elements, like the branding on the tongue, and the player’s signature on the sides. Check this beautiful sneakers on Amazon with prices starting from ₹ 2,749.00.

The brand Sketchers was known in India primarily for women’s and men’s casual footwear. But since the last few years, Skechers has also diversified into offering extremely comfortable sneakers. Combining innovation with design, comfort with a form fitting elegance is this pair of sneakers recently launched by Sketchers, especially in India. The sneakers feature engineered knit uppers. What does it mean to have an engineered knit? The main benefit of an engineered knit upper is the flexibility with which the fabric moulds to your feet, the superior air ventilation, the more natural feel, and the ultra-lightweight nature of the footwear. Coupled with the trademark Skechers memory foam insole, the sneakers is a perfect package for your feet. With prices starting from ₹ 2,663.00 you can buy this pair from Amazon.

Asics is considered to be the hallmark when it comes to combining functionality with performance in footwear. A close competitor of Nike, Asics has established itself even with the fashion-conscious crowd, by launching trendy yet classy footwear collections. The Asics Classic CT Sneakers for men is an example of that. Designed for everyday wear, it features a low-profile upper and the classic Asics Stripes on the side along with yellow trimmings. One of its standout features is the Ortholite dope-dyed sock liner which provides soft step-in comfort and extremely effective moisture management for your feet. Manufactured in Cambodia these sneakers are available for ₹ 3,149.00 on Asics.

Originally released in the ’60s as a tennis shoe, this unique style of sneakers was rebranded as a homage to the legendary American tennis player, Stan Smith. What makes these sneakers so recognisable and iconic pieces are the emblazoned Stan Smith and the player’s face on the shoe’s tongue in contrasting shades. This is one of the most popular styles from the Adidas stable and it is a staple amongst celebrities and everyone from Victoria Beckham to Priyanka Chopra have been spotted in a pair. Stan Smiths are affordable, versatile and comfortable. Their cult following lies in their flexibility as they can be paired with almost ANYTHING! From dresses to jeans to anything ethnic or formal, Stan Smiths just take the versatility factor attached with sneakers ten notches high.

These Stan Smith sneakers from Adidas Originals align with Adidas’ updated commitments to use only recycled polyester by 2024. These shoes have an upper made with synthetic Primegreen which includes 50% recycled materials and also an outsole made from rubber waste. The lace-up closure sneakers are priced at ₹ 3,599.00 on Flipkart.

Another offering by one of the most well-known shoe brands in performance, Reebok’s Classic Evader Sneakers is for those who like to ‘be different’. Are you someone who religiously follows trends? Or someone who loves to play with colours? Or are you someone who plays safe and sticks to the subdued? If it's a yes to either of them, it's a match!

Reebok Classic Evader Sneakers for Men have been designed to suit every need or aesthetics. Be it a touch of colours or adding an oomph factor to your existing wardrobe, or complimenting just the same, the combination of colours used in these sneakers and the colour-blocking style can serve every purpose. Use them to add a dash of colour to your everyday wardrobe. Available on Amazon for ₹ 3,482.00.

In this pair of sneakers by Nike, a flash from the past meets the present. The Nike Court Royale 2 Next Nature Sneakers are one of the most sustainable lines in Nike’s footwear portfolio, made from at least 20% recycled content by weight. The pair also boasts of laces made of 100% recycled polyester. Here, Nike intentionally replaced high-impact leather with synthetic leather to ensure a crispier look which is both smooth, easy to wear and easy to maintain. While the synthetic leather upper is easy to style, the herringbone synthetic rubber sole adds greater traction and durability. The padded, low-cut collar adds a certain sleekness and the sock-liner enhances comfort. Priced at ₹ 3,995.00 you can get these from Ajio.

Levi’s is a brand which needs no introduction. This pair of sneakers by Levi's has been designed specifically for the casual, fuzz-free everyday look. With polyurethane fabric uppers and sturdy rubber soles, these sneakers are crafted to not only last but withstand the wear and tear of everyday hassle. The sneakers feature a lace-up closure and round tip. The sneakers are available in multiple neutral shades including black, dark khaki, navy blue, etc. They are also available in 4 shades of white, which can go with every variant of your wardrobe and are one of the hottest ongoing trends in sneaker fashion. Priced at ₹ 3,499.00 you can check them out on Levi’s.

Since 1980 when the original Puma California footwear collection was launched, it has been making its mark both on and off the streets. This addition to the famous line has only re-emphasised the belief in its classic history. The Puma CA Pro Classic Sneakers feature all the hallmark iconic aspects, the classic silhouette and clean lines in an updated yet extremely contemporary design of perfect perforations and a moulded rubber midsole. With a rubber outsole and leather uppers, the pair features lace closure for a snug fit and the legendary Puma branding at the heels, the Puma form-stripe on the lateral sides as well as a debossed and foil-printed Puma No. 2 logo at the quarter. This pair of sneakers is a perfect combination of heritage and innovation, will make your 'simple' look 'sharp'. Priced at ₹ 5,999.00 you can check it out on Puma.

The Puma TRC Blaze the Triangle Sneakers is the latest in line of Puma’s iconic Trinomic trainers which were launched in the late ’90s and were considered trailblazers in their category. The sneakers having a low boot design featuring an athletic mesh upper for added breathability and suede outlays at the heel and toes. The mid-sole is crafted of Puma’s patented CMEVA (compressed-moulded EVA) which delivers an exceptional performance while keeping the sneakers surprisingly lightweight. The sneakers have a rubber outsole with a lace-up closure. True to Puma’s Trinomic TRC philosophy of cushioning, flexibility and stability this is one product you cannot go wrong with. Priced at ₹ 6,499.00 you can buy this pair of sneakers from Puma.

Adidas is the 2nd largest sportswear manufacturer in the world. This German aspirational brand is used, endorsed and loved by sportsmen all over the world. The company is well known for its innovative designs and superior products that exhale extreme performance, utmost durability and extraordinary comfort. From their house, Adidas Originals, comes this offering. One of its kind, the material used for these sneakers is suede leather, which adds a rather vintage, worn-out appeal to the otherwise contemporary street-chic sneakers. Paired with a lace closure type and Adidas’ distinct 3 parallel stripes on either side, the sneakers are designed for daily use and are an epitome of comfort and elegance. While the leather quality may make you think twice about wearing them in the heat or the sun, careful maintenance with a leather shampoo will add to their (already) extensive lifespan. Priced at ₹ 15,289.00 you can check them out on Amazon.

Emporio Armani is the ultra-premium sportswear line created by world renowned fashion designer, Giorgio Armani. The ‘7’ denotes the number worn by Andriy Shevchenko for A.C. Milan who was a close friend of Armani. These low top lace-up sneakers from EA-7 are the epitome of performance and comfort with best-in-class materials used to create a 360° exhilarating experience. The polyester upper is extremely breathable whereas the rubber sole adequately absorbs impacts and jerks from reaching your feet. Priced at ₹ 24,999.00 you can buy these sneakers from Ajio.

Dune London, although lesser known in India is one of the biggest fashion and footwear accessories corporation in the world. They are known for innovative design excellence and providing extreme comfort in their footwear. This Truro low-top lace-up sneaker boasts of a genuine leather upper with PU sole. It also has adequate cushioning for your comfort in the insole and subtle branding stripes on the side. Available in numerous colours, always remember to protect these sneakers from water like any other genuine leather shoe. Priced at ₹ 14,000.00 you can get them from Ajio.

Keeping the best for the last, this sneakers is what legends are made of. Specially crafted for the legendary basketball player, Michael Jordan, Nike’s Air Jordan series has no comparison in the world. These metallic silver high-top sneakers are the global reissue of the limited edition Air Jordan 1 which first debuted in 2002. With rich tumbled leather, perforated toe for superb breathability and comfort, exquisite craftsmanship and embroidered Nike Air branding on the tongue there is nothing more delightful than this pair of sneakers if you truly want to feel on the top of the world. Available for ₹ 54,351.00 on Amazon.