As an American, sometimes you get caught up in just how great we think we are. Especially when it comes to sneakers, it’s hard to compare sneaker brands to Nike. But the truth is, for someone who cares about how they dress and what they wear, Nike is not the be-all and end-all.
That’s why we’ve seen the rise of shoes like the New Balance 990 line, Adidas Sambas, and Asics Kayano 14 and GT2160s. But these are all global footwear brands. And given their new widespread appeal, they have become overhyped.
The other end of the sneaker spectrum is the ultra-luxury brands. Think Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga trainers, or even the iconic Lanvin Curb model. But these are at an insane, unattainable price point. That is unless you have the kind of money to buy a pair of Travis Scott AJ1s,
TL;DR It’s hard to wear something different, that also looks cool, all while not shelling out the equivalent of 1 month’s rent.
But we are going to help you change that. Recently, I spent some time in Italy, specifically Florence and Milan. I came across a lot of great sneaker brands and models, and I am about to put you on to them.
Premiata Nous
Premiata has produced a sophisticated and stylish trainer with their Nous range. They come in various standout colorways and fabrics, and the outsole features printed details that echo the brand’s keywords. The impactful details make for a bold running shoe style design.
Price: $375
Diadora B560
Initially designed for pro tennis players in the 1990s, the Diadora B.560 Used is back in a revisited version. With the allure and style of a truly vintage icon, the B.560 features the elements and aesthetic of performance shoes from the nineties with a brand-new silhouette. They have a wax finish, adding resistance to water, enhancing the color, and giving them a distressed, vintage finish.
Price: $320
Blocks 79 Cobi
Cobi is a rugged-looking men’s low-top trainer in genuine calfskin and suede. The Blocks 79 trainers have a removable leather footbed and recycled rubber soles. The sneakers are given a worn finish to give them that classic vintage look.
Price: $240
Valsport Magic
Magic is where sport meets sophistication. These handmade sneakers offer a blend of unmatched comfort and striking aesthetics. They have an upper made from leather, suede, and nylon and an ultra-light sole; the result is an elegant 90s-inspired running trainer ready for the city.
Price: $305
Moma Vulcano
The Vulcano sneakers bring a simple but effective vintage look. The low-profile round-toe sneakers are made with suede calf leather and a vulcanized anti-slip rubber sole.
Price: $339
Voile Blanche Club 01
Voile Blanche’s Club 01 features a detail-rich upper, an embossed logo on the heel, and further branding printed on both the sole and tread. It’s a functional and trendy design from the sophisticated brand.
Price: $274
P448 Bali
A luxury spin on low-tops, the Bali sneaker details its sleek silhouette with a perforated P448 logo and chunky rubber sole. It comes in a range of leather, suede, and denim materials and colors to suit any style. These comfortable and hand-crafted trainers are built to last.
Price: $315
BePositive Space Race
The iconic BePositive trainers feature a contrasting rubber sole and a playful air bubble. These trainers represent BePositive’s innovative flair and great design accuracy, producing sneakers with sports features, a fashion appeal, and a neat, chic style.
Price: $435
MOACONCEPT Club Sneaker
MOACONCEPT’s Club Sneaker range celebrates the company’s 10th anniversary with a simple yet elegant low-profile shoe ready for everyday wear. Made from 100% Italian suede and a rubber sole, they are adorned with their iconic logo along the side and available in a range of colorways.
Price: $230
Run Of RO1
Bold and fashionable trainers with an eye-catching graphic print, a mix of suede, nylon, mesh, and rubberized fabric materials, and a patented rubber sole. These are a statement pair of sneakers from a quality brand, handmade in Italy.
Price: $415
KOIO Capri
KOIO’s best-selling shoe, the Capri, is clean, minimalist, and super luxurious. It’s handcrafted in Marche, Italy, from LWG-certified sustainable suede and set on a custom-developed rubber sole. It’s also fitted with a tech-foam insole, so you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds.
Price: $245
Fessura Run 01
Fessura proudly declares that the Run 01 fuses contemporary aesthetics with technological excellence. With a breathable upper fabric and a removable memory foam insole, this sneaker is ideal for everyday use. With a wealth of color options, the trainer perfectly encapsulates the concept of athleisure and represents a shoe with a sporty soul.
Price: $159
D.A.T.E. Torneo
Casual low-top leather sneakers with D.A.T.E.’s simple square logo etched on the side, a rubber sole, and perforated detailing on the toe for greater breathability. The Torneo’s padded heel provides added comfort to these fashionable trainers, making them perfect for every occasion.
Price: $284
ROA Katharina
ROA’s Katharina combines a classic Italian Alp approach shoe with a modern athletic shoe. The water-repellent cotton upper provides durability, with a custom treaded Vibram sole for traction and support on the roughest surfaces. These incredibly fashionable hiking shoes are ready for any terrain that nature throws your way.
Price: $480
