The ultimate winter sneaker roundup
Still street style-worthy, these are the sneaks to switch to this season
Sneakers have come a long way from their sport-centric past. Over the years, they've found their footing not only as the shoe-du-jour (seen on the runways at Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton), but also as one of the basic backbones of our footwear wardrobes, right alongside ballet flats, mannish oxfords and pointy-toe pumps. They add edgy cool to filmy dresses, take the stuffiness out of suits and are the perfect companion to sweats on Sundays. The right sneaker can take you almost anywhere. All the more reason for brands to dream up winterized versions that can easily withstand the slush and the snow. That means cozy fleece linings, water-repellent coatings and non-slip soles; all the comfort of your favourite kicks without sacrificing style. Scroll through the gallery below for 10 sneakers that are just like your winter boots — but sneakier.
Trust a Canadian company to engineer a sneaker that will withstand temps as frigid as -24C degrees. Waterproof and outfitted with an anti-slip sole, this is the shoe that will get you through the winter if you flat out refuse to lace up a boot.
Dublin Suede Hi-Top Sneaker, $150, cougarshoes.com
Just like your favourite puffer coat, these shoes come equipped with insulation to keep the heat in and a water-resistant nylon shell to keep the water out. They may be mens, but there's no reason a woman couldn't rock them too.
Men's NSE Traction Chukka Lite II, $139.99, thenorthface.com
This one's got the comfort of New Balance's Fresh Foam sole with all the traditional trappings of a sturdy winter boot. Full ankle coverage means your toes will stay toasty on the frostiest of days.
Fresh Foam 1000 Boot, $194.99, newbalance.ca
Ever since @oldceline debuted simple, thick soled sneakers years ago, the style has continued to stay current. This winter's iteration? Rich suede with a fluffy shearling lining. Wear them with everything from denim to dresses.
Michael Michael Kors Ashlyn Suede and Shearling High-Top Sneaker, $198, michaelkors.ca
Fully skinned in khaki felt, JW Anderson brings a cozy feel to the classic Chuck Taylor. Though wool is naturally hard-wearing and water repellant, I'd suggest saving these limited-edition sneaks for mild days only.
Converse x JW Anderson Felt Chuck 70 High Top, $170, converse.ca
Sorel is well-known as a go-to winter boot brand, but it's time to consider their sneaker hybrids too. The oversize scalloped tread adds an element of stability while the slip on, Velcro entry means there's no messing with laces or hooks.
Women's Kinetic Sneaker, $170 (on sale for $127.50), sorelfootwear.ca
These studded Valentino stunners take the sock boot trend to the extreme. So extreme in fact, that they're practically tights. At least you don't have to worry about your legs getting chilly.
Valentino Garavani Rockstud Over-the-Knee Sneakers, $1,810 (on sale for $1,448), ssense.com
Swap your canvas sneakers for ones done in suede. This pair comes with the added bonus of a warm lining and an extra high rubber sole, which makes cleaning salt stains a breeze.
Suede SK8-Hi Platform MTE, $120, vans.ca
This gilded pair isn't technically winterized, but the exaggerated lug sole is sturdy enough to withstand a dusting of snow. Plus, the metallic finish will be a bright spot on the dark days ahead.
Fila Disruptor II, $90, footlocker.ca
If you're looking for a pair you can actually clock some miles in, these are the sneakers to nab. They've been treated with a water-repellant coating, so you get all the cushioning and comfort of a knit runner without the hassle of soggy socks.
Nike Air Vapormax Run Utility Water-Repelant Sneakers, $224.96, mrporter.com
Caitlan Moneta (@caitlanmoneta) is a Toronto-based fashion editor, writer and stylist. She's a firm believer that there's nothing a little retail therapy can't fix.