The Best Monochromatic Sneakers for Men, According to Stylish Guys

Men’s Stylist Donnell Baldwin of Mr. Baldwin Style swears by classic Chuck Taylors for their versatility and for how they look better with wear. “I have all-black Chuck Taylors and they go with everything in my wardrobe. They’re one of the only sneakers that have remained relevant throughout the years, have never gone out of style, still go with everything and even when they get beat to hell, they’re even more amazing.”

For something a little sleeker these pale aqua leather low tops do the job of a traditional lace up derby shoe just much lighter and more comfortable.

For something a little less chunky and less expensive too, pick up a pair of Reebok classics.

Jake Woolf, partner at Shop Seam (a new retail phone app) and former men’s style writer, prefers gray when it comes to buying monochrome sneakers. “Buy gray. Whether that’s light or dark gray, it’s a subtle difference that doesn’t put so much pressure on you to keep the shoes pristine.”

Woolf is also a longtime fan of all-gray Common Projects. “I own a gray pair of Common Projects Achilles sneakers that I’ve had for three years and will never get rid of. I wear them on every single first date. It’s only later I introduce weirder kicks into the mix.”

Baldwin is pro neutral-tone sneakers for their talent at hiding dirt. “For guys looking to play it a little safer, a new pair of monochrome sneakers in taupe, tan, or even all brown. They’ll show less dirt and depending on the shoe, could look more elevated that an all white trainer.”

But if you’re looking for brown sneakers with matching brown gum soles — or not into worrying about scuffs on white soles — these caramel-colored suede low tops are great for fall and much more budget-friendly. Bonus: gum soles are Woolf’s preference “Gum, if it’s available, otherwise white.”

One way to make monochrome dressing more interesting is by adding texture and this pair of Sk8-His have plenty of it.

If your closet is full of rich blues and indigos these leather and suede low tops from French brand Maison Margiela will fit right in — and add a touch of luxe.

But if you tend to wear sneakers into the ground fast, give these inky blue New Republics a try.

Green may not be your first thought when it comes to picking out new kicks, but don’t forget the color is considered a neutral as long as it’s on the olive rather than the kelly side of the spectrum — meaning it goes with most everything you own.

So much of fashion is inspired by military-issue designs and this collaboration shoe from Converse and Carhartt WIP is no exception.

According to Woolf, you cannot go wrong with Stan Smiths. “Stan Smiths have a hint of green, but I still think they count. Plus they’re pretty unimpeachable style wise.” The classic version comes with a touch of green on the back, but we prefer these in all-white.

Vans Old Skool sneakers probably already grace the feet of every man and woman you know — for good reason. But the shoe that GQ declared the next Stan Smith is far from being overhyped, especially when you wear it in all white.

Baldwin likes the extra arch support you get from a pair of Air Max 90s especially when running around seeing clients. “Any shoe that has great arch support like a Nike Air Max or New Balance 574s [included above] would be my go-to options. I know these are not the only options — I just like the way they look and feel if I have to stand for awhile and still look stylish and well put-together.”