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With school back in the swing of things, it’s time to snag the coolest sneakers for your teen. While the pair (or pairs) you bought last year may still fit, chances are your teen is in need of a fresh pair of kicks to boost confidence while feeling comfy. Constant wear and tear are inevitable with use—and it’s best to replace them before it’s too late.
Best Sneakers for Teenage Girls, At a Glance
Best Overall: Nike Air Jordan Mid SE, $135
Best Vegan Sneakers:Saye Vegan Modelo ’89 Low-Top Sneakers, $159
Best Nike Sneakers: Nike Blazer Mid ’77, $105
Best Celebrity-LovedSneakers: Cariuma Catiba Pro Low, $139
Best with Most Colorways:Adidas OG Samba Shoes, $100
Best Designer Sneakers:Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker, $590
Best Limited-Edition Sneakers:Alo X 01 Classic Shoes, $185
Best Pickleball Sneakers: Merrell Women’s Bravada 2 Breeze, $100
Best for Running:Brooks Glycerin 21, $160
Thankfully the sneakers on our radar are both cute and practical! You’ll see your teen gravitating towards a variety of takes on the classic white sneaker along with some subtle or bright color pops, which will somehow manage to match everything in their existing wardrobe. The best part? All of the below are offered via online retailers, like Nordstrom, Amazon, or Bloomingdales, so you can ship them directly to your house and not waste a second of precious time overwhelmed in a store. In the end, you can also rest assured knowing that your teen is comfortable and happy with their brand new pair of kicks.
See below for all our picks for the best sneakers for teens.
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Nike Air Jordan 1 Mid SE
Will Air Jordan’s ever go out of style? No? That’s what I thought. Nike’s latest version of their forever cool sneaker is sure to be teen-approved, with classic Jordan colors and autumn-appropriate velvet. The fact that they’re comfortable and colorful is just a bonus.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 10
Materials: Leather, velvet, rubber
Pros:
Eternally stylish
Appealing velvety texture
Cons:
Velvet should be treated before wearingSteve Madden Madrid Silver Low-Top Sneakers
Metallics are still very much in—ask any teen. (Thank you, Beyoncé.) These stylin’ silver beauties by Steve Madden are a comfortable way to add a bit of glam to any outfit. Just be sure to size up a half size—many reviewers note they run small.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 14
Color options: 11
Materials: Synthetic
Pros:
Eye-catching metallic upper
Also available in a wide range of other colors
Cons:
Sizes run smallSaye Vegan Modelo ’89 Low-Top Sneakers
This pair of vegan sneakers have a simple, sustainable design made from corn vegan leather of cotton and a removable insole. The shoes are also easy to clean — just take a damp cloth to wipe them down, and they’ll look good as new!
Sizes available: Womens’ 36 to 46
Color options: 6
Materials: Vegan leather, synthetic rubber, and organic cotton
Pros:
Vegan
’80s-inspired design
Cons:
Not machine washableNike Blazer Mid ’77
These Nike high-top shoes pay homage to classic ’70s and ’80s basketball styles. They feature a high profile made from crisp leather that’s easy to break in. The sneakers have tons of details like exposed foam and a midsole finish, which “make it look like you’ve just pulled them from the history books,” per the brand.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 5 and a design your own option
Materials: Leather
Pros:
Easy to break in
Suede accents
Cons:
Quick sell out ratePuma Suede Classic Sneaker
There’s a reason these suede Puma sneakers have been a hit, generation after generation, since 1968. They’re as iconic as they are modern, and are available in a rainbow of fun teen-approved colors. Maybe add two pairs to your cart—one for her, one for you.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5.5 to 15.5
Color options: 7
Materials: Suede, rubber
Pros:
Classic design
Available in a wide array of colors
Cons:
Suede should be treated before wearingBrooks Glycerin 21
Got a teen girl on the cross country team? She’ll need a pair of running sneakers she loves training in. These Brooks sneakers, which are as plush as they are pretty, will encourage her to go the extra mile—literally.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 14
Materials: Recycled textiles and plastic bottles
Pros:
Plush insole
Lots of color options
Cons:
Limited edition colorways can sell out quickEverlane The Day Sneaker
Just think: with these Everlane sneakers at your entryway, you’ll always have an answer to your teen exclaiming, “I don’t know what shoes to wear!” The classic white lace-up design goes with everything.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 11
Color options: 5
Materials: Leather, rubber
Pros:
Versatile style
Made with sustainable practices
Cons:
Runs slimMephisto Wing Pop
Teens may not care about foot health (yet!), but to encourage good habits young, add these colorful Mephisto sneakers to their shoe collection. The removable insole provides a soft cushion while the shock absorbing outside minimizing impact, making each step comfortable, even if they’re on their feet all day at a summer job.
Sizes available: Womens’ 6.5 to 10
Color options: 1
Materials: Recycled textiles
Pros:
Shock absorbing
Made entirely of recycled materials
Cons:
Smallest and largest sizes sold outRothy’s The Women’s RS02 Sneaker
Rothy’s is a fan favorite for blending comfort and style, and these sneakers are no different. The sporty stripes are paired with sturdy outsides for a machine washable design knit from 22 plastic bottles. Not like teens’ feet stink or anything…
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 13
Color options: 8
Materials: Recycled plastic bottles
Pros:
Plush footbed
Machine washable
Cons:
Some sizes sold outMunicipal Monochrome Origin Shoes
Nab a pair of these limited edition Municipal sneakers and consider it a win/win. Your teen will love the monochromatic street style vibe; you’ll love that they include four layers of three kinds of foam for maximum comfort and durability.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 18.5
Color options: 4
Materials: Suede, nylon, PU leather
Pros:
Cool monochromatic look
Proprietary comfort system
Cons:
Limited quantities availableCariuma Catiba Pro Low
Cariuma is known for its suitably sourced shoes, which have attracted a celebrity following from A-listers like Helen Mirren and Whitney Port. The sneakers are crafted with high-quality, eco-friendly materials that give each pair a distinct look. The 100 percent vegan shops are also praised for their comfort and breathability. We recommend adding this pair of sneakers to your cart stat since Cariuma’s shoes tend to sell out fast.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 13
Color options: 1
Materials: Organic cotton canvas and leather
Pros:
Sustainably sourced
100% vegan
Cons:
Sell out fastSteve Madden Boomer Lace
Add a little oomph to your teen’s gait with these platform Steve Madden sneakers. The rope-like, multi-colored laces are sure to catch eyes in the lunchroom.
Sizes available: Womens’ 6 to 11
Color options: 7
Materials: Vegan leather, textile
Pros:
Standout style
Wide variety of colorways
Cons:
HeavyAdidas OG Samba Shoes
If you’ve scrolled through Instagram lately, you’ve most likely noticed the hundreds of posts showcasing these Adidas OG Samba shoes. They have a classic street style design, low-profile silhouette, and plenty of details that make the sneakers a closet staple. Better yet, they come in 21 colors, so you can grab a pair (or two) that fits your style.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 15
Color options: 21
Materials: Soft leather upper, suede overlays, and gum sole
Pros:
Low profile design
Wide range of colors and sizes
Cons:
Shoes run largeAlexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker
Rush TikTok introduced us to these stunning sneakers from Alexander McQueen. They’re definitely a splurge-worthy purchase, so make sure you add them to your wish list this year. The shoes are made with high-quality materials and a tall rubber platform. The shoes also boast a dainty brand logo on the tongue so everyone will know where the shoes are from.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 2
Materials: Goat leather, calfskin, lambskin, and goatskin
Pros:
Lace up
Removable insole
Cons:
More expensive than other pairsAlo X 01 Classic Shoes
Alo just released these limited-editon pink and white versions of the bestselling Alo X 01 Classic sneakers. They feature a structured sole made for performance and a high-rebound recovery foam insole, which helps you keep your balance. The sole also gives extra bounce, to help protect your pressure points in the feet, knees, hips, joints, and back. These sell fast, so don’t delay adding a pair to your cart before it’s too late!
Sizes available: Womens’ 6.5 to 16.5
Color options: 3
Materials: Cruelty-free vegan leather and recycled components
Pros:
Unisex
Crease-free
Cons:
Limited-editionMerrell Women’s Bravada 2 Breeze
Everyone needs a preppy pair of sneakers in their daily rotation. And if you’re on the hunt for some new kicks, these are the ones. The jade paired with pink is perfect for an afternoon of pickleball or shopping.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 3
Materials: Mesh, foam, and rubber
Pros:
Durable sole
Breahtabale upper
Cons:
Shoppers say these run narrowVeja Suede V-10 Sneakers in Blue
Looking for an upgraded pair of classic sneakers? Your best bet is snagging these suede low-tops from Veja. Thanks to its neutral hues, it’ll go well with every outfit or uniform your teen currently owns. Plus, they’re a favorite of Meghan Markle, too.
Sizes available: Womens’ 36 to 41
Color options: 4
Materials: Suede
Pros:
Timeless style
Madewell exclusive
Cons:
Sells out fastadidas Superstar Sneaker
You can never go wrong with a tried and true pair of Adidas — and these copper superstar sneakers are no exception.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 9
Color options: 1
Materials: Leather
Pros:
Bestselling Adidas shoe
Iconic detailing
Cons:
Shoes might slip off heelQuince 100% Leather Everyday Sneaker
For the teen who’s refined beyond her years, these Quince sneakers will have her feeling oh-so grown. They’re the perfect leather low-top, with a plush insole and go-with-everything style. Here’s betting she’ll wear these long past her teen years.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 10.5
Color options: 2
Materials: Leather, rubber
Pros:
Sophisticated style
Versatile
Cons:
Needs a break-in perioDFILA Sandenal Orbit Sneaker
In recent years, FILA has been all the rage with teens everywhere. To keep up with the trends, grab this statement pair with bold, vibrant colors and a serrated sole.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 11
Color options: 2
Materials: Leather and rubber
Pros:
Stylish design
Sturdy sole
Cons:
Runs smallNike Air Max 1
These chunky Nike sneakers are what retro shoe dreams are made of. They have the brand’s lifted Air Max silhouette with a bright color to turn heads.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 16 and design your own
Materials: Suede, rubber, mixed textiles
Pros:
‘80s-inspired design
Cushioned insole
Cons:
Slightly narrowConverse Custom Chuck Taylor All Star
For a teen that adores Converse, you’ll want to invest in this customizable pair immediately. Let your teen mix and match the tri-panel design with various colors and prints, then finish them off with personalized laces, linings, and text for a one-of-a-kind style they won’t see on anyone else at school
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 19
Color options: 16
Materials: Canvas
Pros:
Ability to personalize
Classic silhouette
Cons:
Run a little bigTHOUSAND FELL Women’s Recyclable Sneakers
Available in six different color options, these Thousand Fell sneakers will certainly become your teen’s new favorite pair. Plus, you’ll adore how they’re water-resistant, stain-proof, and made with recycled materials.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 10
Color options: 15
Materials: Recycled materials
Pros:
Fully recyclable shoes
Can Earn credit back when you recycle
Cons:
SqueakySoludos Women’s Yin Yang Sneakers
If you need a practical sneaker style that adds a bit of a 70s vibe to impress your teen, these Soludos should be at the top of your list. They’re not only super comfortable but showcase a lovely yin-yang design on the side.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 11
Color options: 1
Materials: Soft tumbled leather
Pros:
Next day delivery
Lace-up closure
Cons:
Need to break inReebok Club C 85 Vintage Sneakers
Free People shoppers rave about how the shoes go with everything in your wardrobe. The Reebok sneakers have a classic low-profile design paired with vintage touches, making them one of the coolest shoes to snag.
Sizes available: Womens’ 6 to 11
Color options: 5
Materials: Leather and terry lining
Pros:
Vintage design
Durable
Cons:
Low profileAsics Lyte Classic Sportstyle Shoes
These odor-fighting shoes stay as fresh as they look. The blue suede adds a unique detail to an everyday pair of walking shoes that other options don’t provide. The sneakers also contain an EVA Midsole — a spongelike material with shock-absorbing qualities.
Sizes available: Womens’ 9 to 11
Color options: 3
Materials: Synthetic suede and mesh
Pros:
Odor-Reducing technology
Good for walking
Cons:
Limited sizes availableLululemon Strongfeel Women’s Training Shoe
It’s no secret that Lulemon has the softest leggings, coziest Scuba jackets, and now cute footwear you can add to your wardrobe. These vibrant shoes were made for training and offered optimal foot support. Per the brand, the sneakers stay snug against your feet while you power through a workout or run.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 3
Materials: Leather
Pros:
Made for training
Supportive
Cons:
Not washableReebok Club C 85 Vintage Sneaker
Free People shoppers rave about how these shoes go with everything in your wardrobe. These Reebok sneakers have a classic low-profile design paired with vintage touches, making them one of the coolest shoes to snag.
Sizes available: Womens’ 6 to 11
Color options: 5
Materials: Leather and terry lining
Pros:
Vintage design
Durable
Cons:
Low profileOn Cloud 5
These sneakers from On Running are made for those who love tech and comfortable shoes. The Cloud 5s have a breathable antimicrobial mesh, CloudTec in Zero-Gravity foam, which gives ads a cushiony feel while you move. The brand’s Speedboard materials also turn your energy into motion.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 11
Color options: 14
Materials: 44% recycled materials
Pros:
Unique technology
True to size
Cons:
ExpensiveAPL Women’s TechLoom Bliss
Celebrities like Addison Rae and Lucy Hale have been spotted in a pair of APL sneakers. The brand is known for its performance shoes packed with high-performance technology. Even if you don’t need the shoes to advance you athletically, they are stylishly pair with shoes or jeans.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 11
Color options: 9
Materials: Milled satin and embossed elastic strap
Pros:
Celebrity-approved
Good for traveling
Cons:
Not many colors availableHoka Bondi 8 Sneakers
These top-rated Hokas will brighten up your wardrobe. They have the prettiest color scheme and, of course, the brand’s comfortable fit. The sneakers include breathable mesh uppers, a sockliner, lightweight foam midsoles, extended heel, pillowed tongue, and pull-tab.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 11
Color options: 10
Materials: Mesh, foam, and rubber
Pros:
Versatile
Fun colors
Cons:
Takes some breaking inNew Balance 574 Core
Don’t be surprised if your teen wants all five colors of these New Balance sneakers. The lifestyle sneakers strike the perfect balance between the old and new with a classic New Balance design and updated features.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 12
Color options: 5
Materials: EVA foam
Pros:
Lightweight
Supportive
Cons:
No wide sizes available in some colorwaysLoci Origin Water Resistant Sneaker
For teens who love a low-profile design, the Loci Origin Water Resistant Sneaker is a perfect match. Made from recycled ocean plastic, these shoes stand up against water and spills, so you never have to worry about wet feet. They also include a cork and recycled foam footbed for comfort.
Sizes available: Womens’ 6 to 9
Color options: 2
Materials: Recycled ocean plastic
Pros:
Water-resistant
True to size
Cons:
Can feel heavy on
Limited sizesVans Classic Slip-On
Vans have been a classic skateboarding and surfer shoe since the 1960s, and you can still shop for classic styles like this OG slip-on pair.
Sizes available: Womens’ 5 to 11
Color options: 4
Materials: Textile upper and rubber sole
Pros:
Water-resistant
True to size
Cons:
Fits largerDr. Scholl’s Madison Lace Platform Sneaker
One shopper calls these “awesome tennis shoes.” Thanks to its cushioned insole with arch support, you can sit and walk in these all day without discomfort. The shoes are also treated with antimicrobial technology, which keeps odors at bay.
Sizes available: Womens’ 6 to 11
Color options: 4
Materials: Synthetic upper
Pros:
Supportive for all-day comfort
Antimicrobial technology to control odor
Cons:
Do not last long
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