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Updated April 24, 2024: This article on the best white sneakers for women was updated with new product selections and with editor testing and review notes after a round of footwear testing by FN staff. We are currently testing additional women’s white sneakers from brands like Superga and Alo Yoga for consideration in this expert-approved guide.
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Every woman needs a pair of white sneakers. They’re a foundational base for any outfit, and, despite being a no-frills footwear choice by definition, the right pair can seamlessly elevate anything you wear them with. White sneakers for women are one of the most versatile shoes you can own, with endless versatility for any season, occasion, and personal style POV. Plus, with summer days inching closer into view, it’s the perfect time to snag fresh white steppers for lighter, brighter days ahead that’ll easily pair with your favorite flowing frocks or denim cut-offs all the same.
No longer simply suited for the tennis court, the comfy white sneaker has been embraced in every setting. Remember when women would wear white sneakers with their ’80s power suits to commute to work before swapping them for painful pumps? Now you can wear minimalist, all-white leather sneakers with your tailored trousers from 9-to-5. Ready to dance the night away but need a pair of shoes that will keep you moving and grooving? There are plenty of chunky white sneakers on the market to add an effortlessly cool edge to your cocktail attire. Whether you love a classic Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Shoes or prefer a platform, statement-making shoe situation, the best white sneakers for women come in all shapes and sizes.
White sneakers are in high demand: According to a Future Market Insights report, the white sneaker market is projected to reach $21 million by 2032, with shoppers increasingly seeking out stylish options. This increase in demand has led luxury brands to create sleek offerings — there’s a time and place for canvas kick-arounds, but you can also find luxury leather styles from Gucci, Chloé, and other fashion houses.
Modern white sneakers have a humble origin story. In the 1910s, Keds and Converse created sneakers with white canvas uppers and rubber soles, designed for sport. Adidas’ Stan Smith sneakers’ debut in 1965 coincided with the tennis boom of the ‘70s and ‘80s, and soon the shoes bled off the court and into fashion, seen on the heels of icons like John Lennon. But these early iterations were primarily only white sneakers for men.
In 1982, girls got options: Reebok Freestyle sneakers came onto the scene as one of the first white sneakers designed specifically for women. Jane Fonda’s aerobics videos popularized the pair, and they quickly became a fashionable pair of walking shoes for ‘80s ladies. (Cybill Shepherd wore a bright orange pair on the 1985 Emmy’s red carpet.) Icons like Pamela Anderson and Kate Moss wore white sneakers casually throughout the ‘90s. Although they never faded from fashion, white sneakers got a style boost when Phoebe Philo wore white Stan Smiths to close out Celine’s fall 2011 show.
White sneakers for women run the gamut from tried-and-true to on-trend. Heritage brands like adidas, Nike, and Reebok offer reliable classics, while newer lines like Cariuma and Veja are elbowing in with a sustainable bent.
Selecting a pair of white sneakers for women can feel overwhelming — there are hundreds, if not thousands, of options. To help you make your selection, we’ve interviewed podiatrists Bruce Pinkner, Bradley Schaeffer, and Mike Rushton for insight on ideal comfort features for different foot types and conditions. Shop our definitive list of the best white sneakers for women, then read more about trends, tips for choosing a pair, how to style them for summer, and more.
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 White Sneakers for Women of 2024
White sneakers go beyond seasonal trends — they’ve been a style staple for decades. Whether it’s a performance running shoe with airy mesh uppers, a crisp leather stepper, or a bold, mixed-media silhouette that references vintage aesthetics, there are countless options to choose from. They’re all equally just as versatile, timeless, and stylish than the last, but, before investing in your go-to white sneaker, it’s important to consider your foot type and comfort needs, activity level, and personal style. Below, we’ve crowned our top three white sneakers to shop for 2024, which have each been evaluated based on trend appeal, comfort features, durability, and boundless versatility.
- Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Shoes: This shoe needs no introduction — and it’s a staunch must-have for every shoe rotation, at least according to Footwear News Shop editors. Converse Chuck Taylors are among the most popular canvas white shoes of all time, beloved for their retro basketball silhouette, easy-to-wash uppers, and too-cool-for-school vibe that compliments anyone who wears them. Plus, they’re one of the most affordable options on our list, and boast reliable durability that’ll last you for years to come.
- Nike Air Max 97 Shoes: The Nike Air Max 97 is a cult-favorite white sneaker for those looking to get in on the chunky sneaker trend. Beloved by celebrities and street style trendsetters alike, they also seamless tie in to coveted Nike silver sneakers trends that continue to dominate. They’re naturally versatile with a high-style appeal, and offer all-day comfort features like springy Air Max cushioning and breathable mesh uppers.
- adidas Gazelle Shoes: adidas’ Gazelle sneaker is a certified classic in the sneaker category — particularly for those looking for the best retro white sneakers for women. It boasts highly durable uppers and a minimal profile that ties into dominant quiet luxury aesthetics, plus built-in arch support. Crisp and clean, there’s nothing more satisfying and versatile than this best-selling white adidas sneaker.
Size range: 5 to 11
Materials: Canvas, rubber
Celebrity fans: Beyoncé, Gwyneth Paltrow, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Emma Roberts, and more
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
What testers say: “Arrived quickly and in mint condition, very reasonable price for this all black fabric converse. I find the fit is as expected and they are very comfortable to wear. I’ve owned different types over the years and always find them reliable as walking shoes. I live in them during summer and would happily buy again as I’ve paid considerably more for these from other places over the years.”
Style: 5/5 rating | Comfort: 4.6/5 rating | Versatility: 5/5 rating | Durability: 4.9/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $65
Size range: 5 to 12
Materials: Synthetic upper, mesh underlay, foam midsole
Celebrity fans: Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Vanessa Hudgens, Halsey, Kaia Gerber, and more
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “This is the perfect white tennis shoe. Love the look and goes perfectly with any ‘fit.”
Style: 5/5 rating | Comfort: 4.8/5 rating | Versatility: 4.7/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $133.97
Size range: 5 to 15 women’s
Materials: Full grain leather, rubber
Celebrity fans: Gigi Hadid, Olivia Wilde, Jennifer Lawrence, and Lucy Hale
Additional features: Synthetic leather lining
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve owned my adidas Gazelles for over a year, wearing them at least once a week. I’m surprised at how well they’ve held up to wear and tear on city streets despite the price point — the sole is starting to wear, but otherwise the shoes are good as new. The sole features a little bit of arch support, which is helpful for those like me with high arches.”
What testers say: “I love wearing these trainers, they are stylish, comfortable and look great.”
Style: 5/5 rating | Comfort: 4.9/5 rating | Versatility: 5/5 rating | Durability: 4.9/5 rating
Materials: Canvas
Celebrity fans: Helen Mirren, Nina Agdal, Pete Davidson, Ashton Kutcher, Robert Downey Jr.
Special features: Sustainable construction
Editor testing and review notes: “I took my Cariuma sneakers for a spin down Fifth Avenue, and I can vouch that the plush footbed even held up even against the harsh city sidewalks. As I put one foot in front of the other, I felt the Cariuma OCA shoe’s foam mold to my natural foot shape, creating a super smooth glide with each stride and felt stable support through my neutral arches. My ankles suffered zero points of irritation with and without socks, thanks to light padding on the collar. My feet felt right at home by going a half size up — snug and secure, with plenty of wiggle room for mobility. I’ve worn both low- and high-top canvas sneakers my whole life, and my single qualm was always the hard, flat footbed that left my feet sore and my legs achy. Cariuma’s Oca Lows are some of the best white canvas sneakers on the marker — the answer to my years-long search.“
What testers say: One customer said, “This is a strong, sturdy, comfortable shoe that I loved customizing with other Cariuma laces.” Another wrote, “I bought Cariumas for the first time and my comment is short: I love them! Beside the fact, that I like the style, the fitting, the low weight, and of course the insole gives my a comfortable feeling when I put them on!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Materials: Leather upper, rubber sole
Celebrity fans: Dakota Johnson, Jennifer Garner, Elle Fanning, Lucy Hale, Rita Ora, and more
Gucci Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
If you’re looking to give your sneaker collection a luxe update, add these to your cart and dress them up with maxi dresses or flowy skirts or down them with a workout set or a pair of jean shorts.
Price upon publish date of this article: $950
Materials: Leather
Celebrity fans: Serena Williams, Jennifer Lopez, Kourtney Kardashian, Billie Eilish, Corey Mylchreest
Additional features: Foam midsole, perforations on the toe, padded collar
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “I broke these shoes in on a vacation that entailed a lot of walking. They were stiff at first, but broke in quickly and were comfortable throughout the week-long trip, with the perfect amount of cushioning in the insole and around the ankle. I am looking forward to many more months — maybe even years — of comfy wear out of these. Per the reviews, I ordered a half size down from my normal Nike size and the fit was perfect.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Materials: Leather upper, rubber sole
Celebrity fans: Kendall Jenner, Dakota Johnson, Jennifer Garner, Elle Fanning, Lucy Hale, Rita Ora, and more
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Whether you’re kicking it on the soccer field or running errands in the neighborhood, white adidas Sambas are the perfect addition to anyone’s footwear rotation. The adidas Samba is arguably one of the most stylish sports sneakers on the market, offering wearers an effortless blend of athletic function and street style appeal. They feature a white upper with contrasting black stripes on the side and a rubber gum sole. And since they were designed with athletes in mind, the forefoot and midfoot of the sneakers are covered with a sleek suede to protect against abrasions, while the suction on the gum sole shoe enables traction and flexibility.
Editor testing and review notes: “The adidas Sambas have a light amount of cushioning that’s just enough for me to wear them on everyday walks. The outsole traction is a huge selling point for city slickers, as the rubber sole keeps you steady on slick sidewalks after rain or down steep stairs to subway platforms. And of course, you can’t beat the look of the adidas walking shoes — they’re bestsellers for a reason.”
What tesers say: “Of the classic Originals silhouettes, the Samba is by far my favorite. Can’t go wrong with either the Black or White colorways. Super easy to wear.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Materials: Textile upper; continental rubber outsole
Additional features: Yarn in the upper is created with 50% recycled polyester and 50% Parley Ocean Plastic
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “Adidas Ultraboost Light sneakers are my go-to pair of running shoes for daily jogs and tempo runs. I have high arches, so many shoes can rub the top of my foot and cause discomfort throughout my runs. These have a snug but stretchy upper that causes no pain or irritation — you don’t need to break these sneakers in.”
What testers say: “Great cushioning. These were my first activity shoes after an Achilles tear, and have been great support.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $152
Materials: Leather upper and rubber outsole
Celebrity fans: Gigi Hadid, Margot Robbie, Hilary Duff, Dakota Johnson, Addison Rae, Ariana Grande, Sofia Richie, Whitney Port, and more
Additional features: Low-cut design; durable high-abrasion outsole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “I always have a pair of Reebok Club C 85 sneakers on standby in my shoe wardrobe — they’re incredibly comfortable and don’t show signs of wear after months of consistent walking. The gum outsole holds up for all my city adventures.”
What testers say: “I bought these for a trip because I needed a pair of sneakers that not only needed to match all my outfits but I hoped that I could be able to walk around with them, and boy did they deliver! I wore these to shred! I was walking around 20,000 steps per day for 2 weeks and wore these shoes more than the other 2 pair I took! They still look good, probably just need a quick wash. I’m not gonna tell you that my feet didn’t hurt at the end of the day, but that was probably because I didn’t walk at all before my trip and my feet had to get used to walking everywhere.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $56.90
Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber outsole
Celebrity fans: Margot Robbie, Karlie Kloss, Kylie Jenner, and Kendall Jenner
Additional features: Vegan, made with recycled materials
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What testers say: “Comfy and goes with anything. Dress it up wearing a cute spring maxi dress or down with athleisure wear.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Materials: Canvas
Celebrity fans: Christy Turlington Burns, Kylie Jenner, Olivia Wilde, Olivia Rodrigo, and more
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: One customer said, “These shoes go with everything! They are a classic style, easy to keep clean, and can be dressed up or down. Can’t beat them!” Another wrote, “Vans is the best overall shoe. The quality lasts for ever. As a kid from the 1980’s, Vans is always been my shoe. The slip on and the classic lace are my go to when I want to be relaxed.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $55
Materials: Leather, cotton, recycled EVA, and recycled rubber
Celebrity fans: Kate Middleton, Emma Watson, Katie Holmes, and more
Additional features: Created with sustainably sourced leather
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I have these in extra white, which I love. I like that the leather is easy to wipe clean. They go with everything, and they dress up and down effortlessly.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Materials: Antimicrobial mesh and foam cushioning
Celebrity fans: Lucy Hale, Gisele Bündchen, and Zendaya
Additional features: Speed lacing system
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Love them. They are so comfy! I had never heard of them but I was with a friend and she pointed them out. I tried them on and found them very comfortable. While trying them on about 10 women passed by or stopped to mention how much they love these sneakers. Before I knew it there were so many women trying them on AND buying!!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $139.99
Materials: Knit upper, EVA foam midsole, and rubber outsole
Celebrity fans: Addison Rae, Kim Kardashian, and Rebel Wilson
Additional features: Recycled mesh and laces; extra cushioned
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I power walk and walking shoes were not cutting it. My knees were sore the day after walking so until I purchased the Hoka shoe, I would alternate walking with the stationary bike. The Hoka is a cushioned ride and to my surprise, hugs my narrow heel. I’m also able to put my orthotics in them with no issues on the fit and this is the first pair of running shoes that I can wear my regular street size instead of ordering a half or full size larger.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $145
Materials: Full-grain Italian leather
Celebrity fans: Jessica Alba, Joe Jonas
Special features: Removable OrthoLite Hybrid Insole, sustainable materials
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: One customer said, “Wow, the hype about the Capri in White Gum is TRUE!! What a great shoe – it’s the most comfortable sneaker I have EVER worn!” Another said, “I purchased my first pair of Capri Triple Whites in 2019, hours before I went on a walking heavy trip. Admittedly, that could have been a really dumb decision. Fortunately the break-in time was quick! I didn’t get any blisters and I have worn them nearly every day since for the past 4 years.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $245
White Sneaker Trends of 2024
Picking out the perfect pair of white sneakers for women takes some planning — like most fashion staples, there’s an overwhelming number of trendy iterations on the silhouette. It’s all about finding the white sneakers that match your personal style. No matter what white sneaker trend you choose to experiment with, remember that your white sneakers should feel comfortable first and then add an effortlessly cool vibe as a bonus point. We’ve outlined the top white sneaker trends for 2024 so that you can be prepared for when it’s time to shop.
- White retro sneakers: Vintage-inspired sneaker silhouettes have been a prominent trend over the last few seasons, and they continue to dominate through spring and summer 2024. The adidas Samba OG shoe is among the most popular and leads the way in the coveted soccer shoe category, from its classic gum sole, crisp white leather uppers, and suede detailing. The Samba has been worn by Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Emily Ratajkowski, suggesting that that the white sneaker trend no longer solely consists of crisp colorways, with room for colorful pops and mixed media. This season, varying shades of white such as cream and off-white as well as white sneaker with gum soles prove to be equally as timeless and versatile. The Reebok Club C 85 shoe, worn by Princess Diana, is another timeless, everyday sneaker that continues to reign as a best seller, along with the Gucci Mac80 sneaker which sports a crisp white leather upper, nostalgic gum soles, and rugged traction.
- White chunky sneakers: Bold silhouettes with chunky midsoles, also deemed “dad shoes,” remain a staple street style trend. The now-fashionable style is a result of comfy cushioned running shoes being embraced in norm-core trends, from avant garde Balenciaga “ugly shoes” to New Balance sneakers à la Steve Jobs. The ’90s-era appeal can be seen in white sneakers like cult-favorite Nike Air Max 97 Shoes, On Cloud 5 Shoes , and Hoka Clifton 9 Shoes, which also serve as exceptional walking shoes for women with ample foot support, airy mesh uppers, and boundless versatility.
- White platform sneakers: The platform sneaker trend comes straight from the early aughts, with modern updates from heritage brands, like Nike Air Force 1‘s or Cariuma Oca Low‘s. We’ve tracked stars from Shakira to Vanessa Hudgens and Katie Holmes sporting white platform sneakers in their off-duty ensembles year-round, as they offer a comfortable middle ground between a high-style pump and pared down trainers.
- White canvas sneakers: Canvas shoes are universally beloved by skaters, basketball players, and fashionistas alike. Washable, lightweight, and breathable, this style is practically synonymous with Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Shoes or Vans Slip-On Shoes — two perennial shoes that have never gone out of style. Innovative brands like Cariuma have taken the timeless style a step further with sustainable construction, padded footbeds, and more refined design, of which they are celebrated in the strictly chic, quiet luxury trend that leans into minimalism and effortless polish.
The Different Types of White Sneakers for Women
Now more than ever, white sneakers for women come in many different forms, making it tricky to know which material and style is best for your needs. We’ve broken down the different types of white sneakers for women based on fabrication and silhouette, below:
The Different White Sneaker Fabrications:
- Leather: With more shoppers looking for sneakers that protect their feet and add ergonomic support, white leather sneakers have become highly coveted, going from the tennis courts to the runways and the streets. With advancements in leather fabrication and more designers looking to implement sustainability into their kicks, leather sneakers are now available in real, faux, and mixed leather. Genuine leather has a luxe appeal, feels soft to the touch, and can be biodegradable if it’s tanned without harmful chemicals. For those seeking vegan-friendly kicks, faux leather is a great option and often a more affordable, but just as durable alternative.
- Canvas: White canvas sneakers are a true summer staple for women. They’re breathable and versatile, making them a no-brainer for all warm-weather escapades. Typically, canvas is made from cotton, linen, or hemp fibers which doesn’t offer much cushioning, support, or shock absorption, so we recommend them them for short walks rather than longer hikes or running. When looking for the best white canvas sneakers, look to styles like Keds’ Champion Original Sneakers or Vans’ Authentic Everyday Shoes, all designs equally as popular today as they were over 57 years ago.
- Mesh: Whether you’re running outside in the summer or have sweaty feet no matter where you are, white sneakers made with performance fabrics will keep your feet cool and comfortable. That’s because these shoes usually consist of knit or mesh, intended for excellent airflow. Wearing white sneakers made from these materials will allow the air to circulate and your feet to breathe, leading to fewer blisters and hot spots
The Different White Sneaker Silhouettes:
- High-top white sneakers: If one thing is for certain, it’s that white high-top sneakers are sticking around for seasons ahead. Its standout style is the Converse’s Chuck Taylor High-Top Sneaker which started as a pragmatic basketball shoe and has now become an it-girl lifestyle shoe. While white high-tops lean retro, don’t be intimated when styling them. They can easily be paired with anything in your wardrobe to make an ensemble feel edgy.
- Low-top white sneakers: Low-top white sneakers are the classic, versatile style everyone needs. The most notable iterations of the bunch are Ked’s Champion Original Sneakers, the first mass-marketed canvas-top sneaker, and iconic Stan Smith shoes that gained mainstream demand after they got into the hands of Celine’s former creative director, Pheobe Philo. Since these two sneakers were released, white low-top sneakers have became heavily adopted because of their affordability, comfortability, and versatility. The white low-top sneaker has a slimline silhouette that works perfectly with sharp tailoring as well as casual looks and is ideal for those who prefer a more low-key look when it comes to footwear.
- Slip-on white sneakers: White slip-on sneakers are great for everyday wear, especially on days when you don’t have time to sit down and lace up your shoes. Vans’ solid white design shot to fame in the ‘80s and has been a staple and trendsetter of the style. Since then, the demand for white slip-on sneakers has grown even more, with other luxury designers adding their own flair to suit every style and budget.
- Platform white sneakers: If you’re petite and need an easy boost, or you prefer bolder shoe silhouettes, platform white sneakers are a stellar option to elevate your everyday shoe game. Many top brands offer extra inch iterations in their bestselling styles, like adidas Sambas — dubbed Sambae’s — and Vans Slip-On Sneakers. They’re just as versatile as your go-to pair, with a Y2K feel that can breathe instant personality into any outfit.
The Best White Sneakers for Different Foot Types and Foot Conditions
- White sneakers for women with high arches: Seek out white sneakers with supportive, soft, and more flexible soles. These features absorb shock and have enough room to accommodate high-arched feet. In addition to supportive cushioning, choosing a shoe with a slight heel-toe drop (the difference between how high the shoe is in the heel versus the forefoot) can help decrease impact forces and ankle stress when walking.
- White sneakers for women with flat feet: Those with flat feet should look for white sneakers with a wide width. These shoes for flat feet give enough room for your feet to splay out in the shoes, without causing painful rubbing on your toes and the sides of your feet. Additionally, since these foot types tend to overpronate, choosing a stability shoe is a smart choice for those with wide feet.
- White sneakers for women with plantar fasciitis: The best shoes for plantar fasciitis keep your feet in a neutral position. “Some people with plantar fasciitis have flat feet and tend to overpronate, and some people have a higher arch and are over supinators,” Dr. Brad Schaeffer, owner of Sole Podiatry NYC explains. “It’s important for our shoes and insoles to support every step that we take.” He always recommends Dr. Scholl’s plantar fasciitis insoles for any shoes needing additional support.
- White sneakers for women with wide feet: If you have the opportunity, choose wide, extra-wide, or extra-extra-wide width options depending on your foot measurement. If not, board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon of Progressive Foot Care in New York state Dr. Bruce Pinker suggests looking for white sneakers with “a stable shank, cushioned midsole and stable heel counter.” Additionally, Pinker advises that anyone with wide feet should turn the shoe over to see if it’s wider lasted. If the sole is uniform in width, it’s a good pair of shoes for wide feet, but if it’s hourglass-shaped, the shoe could end up rubbing the sides of your feet.
- White sneakers for women with heel spurs: Heel spurs are the growth of bone on the bottom of your heel. “If you have a spur, you need a cushy heel,” Dr. Mike Rushton, co-founder and medical director of Forward Motion Orthotics, says. Anatomical arch support is also helpful in promoting healthy foot alignment. Good alignment means the entire foot will absorb the impact of every step rather than just the heel.
- White sneakers for women with bunions: Those with bunions know that the wrong shoes can turn your day into a drag. The best shoes for bunions should have a roomy toe box to accommodate plenty of room for your feet. Look for shoes with stretchy materials, like mesh or canvas.
How to Care for White Sneakers
White sneaker lovers fall in two camps: One that loves to earn the look of a dirty, lived-in shoe, and the other that is focused on keeping them looking clean, crisp, and bright white. If you fall in the latter, it’s important to keep in mind that there are different ways to care for white sneakers, depending on the materials they are made of. Shoe storage is also just important as properly cleaning them, as built-up dust and residue can warp color quickly. Many shoe storage ideas will help your white sneakers from getting scuffed, creased, or damaged prematurely, like traditional shoe boxes and shoe racks. For example, you can properly place your white sneakers in the boxes your shoes come in or the special bins you can buy separately.
Shoe boxes and bins are a great option since they’re durable and ensure nothing gets inside. Plus, you can stack them and easily organize your belongings. Another reliable storage idea is to place your white sneakers in an over-the-door shoe rack. This option makes putting away and picking out your sneakers easy and saves space. Finally, if you have space by your front door, you can opt for a shoe cubby to keep your white sneakers off the floor and keep your sneaker pairs together.
Since caring for white sneakers isn’t just based on how you store them, we’ve broken down the best ways to clean white sneakers depending on the type of sneakers you cherish.
- How to clean leather: One of the easiest ways to clean white leather sneakers is with soap. Simply lather a wet toothbrush or cloth with clear soap and gently scrub in a circular motion to remove the stain. When finished scrubbing, wipe away excess soap and residue with a damp cloth and then dry the shoes with a clean towel. Another way to clean white leather sneakers that isn’t as traditional is to take a damp magic eraser and rub away any visible dirt or grime on your white leather sneakers, including on the soles of the shoes.
- How to clean canvas: If you have a pair of white canvas sneakers, you can use vinegar and baking soda to clean your kicks. First, mix two tablespoons of vinegar with a tablespoon of baking soda, then dilute the mixture with one cup of warm water. Dip a washcloth or toothbrush into the baking soda-vinegar paste and scrub your shoes in small, circular motions. Once the mixture dries, brush it off of your shoes’ uppers and let them air dry. Many canvas sneakers are machine-washable shoes, too, but make sure to double check that it’s safe to toss them in the wash on the brand’s website.
- How to clean vegan and plant-based leather: Unlike natural leather, vegan or faux leather does not have any pores, meaning no water will seep through it. So to clean your white vegan leather sneakers, take a damp cloth dipped in soapy water and wipe them. Then make sure they air dry for at least one day before you step into them again.
- How to clean performance fabrics: Performance fabrics such as mesh and knit, seen in most Nike and adidas running shoes, are the most breathable and lightweight materials, but often they attract the most dirt. However, regularly cleaning your knit or mesh shoes can help keep them in shape — and looking fresh. To do so, Nike.com recommends first removing the shoe laces and stuffing the shoes with crumpled newspapers, washcloths, or a shoe tree. Then mix a small amount of laundry detergent or mild soap in a bowl with lukewarm water, dip a shoe brush or clean toothbrush in the soapy liquid, and gently brush the shoes in the direction of the knit pattern. Once the dirt has been scrubbed off, wipe off the soap with a clean cloth and let them air dry.
How to Style Women’s White Sneakers
White sneakers are instant outfit boosters in more ways than one. They’re streamlined and minimal in design and versatile enough to be worn year-round. However, before putting your white sneaker outfit together there are a few guidelines you’ll want to consider.
- White sneakers with dresses: Put your sandals away; white sneakers and dresses are summer’s hottest fashion pairing. When it comes to styling the combo, anything goes. You can play with patterns and pair a chunky white sneaker with a flowy midi dress or team a tight-fitting mini dress with skate-inspired shoes as Emily Ratajkowski often does when running errands in New York City. Whatever way your style leans, white sneakers with dresses are a no-brainer because you’ll be kept cute and comfortable when it comes to weekend wear, traveling, and exploring new places.
- White sneakers with jeans: What’s more classic than women’s jeans, a white T-shirt, and white sneakers? This quintessential ensemble has been around for centuries and has been worn by celebrities like Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Miranda Kerr, Gigi Hadid, and Olivia Culpo, to name a few. It’s extremely wearable that you can choose any white sneaker and jean silhouette, and you’ll effortlessly nail the look. For example, wear white sneakers with cropped baggy jeans and ankle socks for a sporty and modern feel.
- White sneakers with trousers: Don’t overlook teaming your trousers with white sneakers. This will help you achieve a sophisticated and cozy look. The freshness of white leather sneakers looks great against wide-leg trousers, as they don’t draw the eye immediately to the base of your outfit. For example, take inspiration from Bella Hadid’s off-duty ensemble and pair low-top white sneakers with a monochromatic blazer and trouser combination. Then add a white tank top and retro sunglasses to dress down the look.
- White sneakers with leather pants: White sneakers naturally bring a more relaxed vibe to an outfit, which pairs well with leather pants. With a heeled boot or women’s loafer, the look would feel much more business casual, but white sneakers make it a perfect elevated look for a day out. Plus, when styled next to leather pants, white sneakers deliver a crisp juxtaposition that may be least expected but is low-key stylish.
How We Chose the Best White Sneakers for Women
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.
In order to select the best white sneakers for women, we conducted market research into white women’s sneakers currently on the market based on popularity and function. We also evaluated consumer product reviews to determine the most comfortable, best fitting, and most loved white sneakers for women for various needs and occasions. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Brad Schaeffer, DPM, is a board-certified foot surgeon at Sole Podiatry NYC and star of the TLC show “My Feet Are Killing Me.”
Bruce Pinker, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon of Progressive Foot Care in New York State. He treats foot and ankle trauma, diabetic foot injuries and infections, foot dermatology, and more.
Mike Rushton, DPM, is the co-founder and medical director of Forward Motion Orthotics in St. George, Utah. He has 13 years of experience specializing in conservative care and orthotic therapy.
Meet the Authors
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to lifestyle, regularly digging into foot-related topics like the best white sneakers for women.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She updated this guide to the best white sneakers for women in April 2024 with new sneakers releases and editor testing reviews.