The humble high-top is a timeless choice for any season. 

We’ve rounded up the best high top sneakers that cater to a range of different lifestyles, fashion preferences and budgets.

Are they in style? How do you wear them? Will they create the illusion of shorter legs? These are often the main questions people have when it comes to high top sneakers. However, adding a pair to your collection might just be the best investment you’ll ever make.

First and foremost — high top sneakers never went out of style. From an Air Jordan 1 to a Chuck Taylor, high tops have been a wardrobe staple for decades. Yes, styling them requires a bit more effort than low tops but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find they actually pair well with the majority of your wardrobe (more styling tips below). And while they can create the illusion of shorter legs if, for example, you pair them with shorts, it all comes down to learning how to style them correctly. Achieve this and you’ll have yourself a pair of comfortable and stylish shoes you’ll never want to take off.

Keep on reading for our roundup of the best high top sneakers that cater to a range of needs, lifestyles, fashion preferences and budgets.

Converse All-Star Chuck Taylor Unisex Casual Shoes, from $80.90 at Amazon

Converse All-Star Chuck Taylor Unisex Casual Shoes. Image: Amazon.Source:BodyAndSoul

Yes, the renowned Converse Chuck Taylors needed to be at the top of this list. Deemed the OG of high-top sneakers, this classic model has continued to stand the test of time and is still regarded as one of the best. The timeless high top in white will elevate almost any outfit but if you’re after something a little more playful, it also comes in a huge range of colourful and seasonal prints.

Aside from aesthetics, this sneaker is the definition of comfort. They’ll keep your feet comfortable and secure on your city strolls, there’s optimal ventilation and they’re incredibly lightweight so your feet won’t feel dragged down.

Windsor Smith Deserve Black Canvas Chunky Sneaker Boot, $119.95 at Myer

Windsor Smith Deserve Black Canvas Chunky Sneaker Boot. Image: Myer.Source:BodyAndSoul

White high tops are the most popular choice but one major downside is how quickly they can get dirty. So, these Windsor Smith sneakers fuse durability with fashion and comfort, making them one of the best high tops you can get your hands (or should we say feet?) on.

They feature a black canvas upper and chunky rubber sole (which is great if you need a bit of height), and can be worn with both casual clothes during the day and something smarter at night.

One five-star reviewer summed it up, saying: “My two favourite types of shoes in one! Boots and sneakers. Nothing more comfortable that can be worn on a night out or just for casual. They’re quite comfortable and as a short girl, it gives me a little bit more height too!”

Another person added: “These boots are amongst the most comfortable I’ve ever worn. The canvas allows your feet to breathe ensuring you don’t experience sweaty feet. They are not only comfortable but look super cool while combined with jeans, dress or skirts.”

They do tend to run slightly small so it’s recommended to size up.

Adidas Originals Forum Unisex Mid Shoes, $160 at The Iconic

Adidas Originals Forum Unisex Mid Shoes. Image: The Iconic.Source:BodyAndSoul

One word sums up these Adidas Forum shoes: iconic. A throwback to the 1980s NBA playoffs, this unmistakable style is especially adored by old-school lovers. Although sporting a retro look, it’s been given facelifts over the centuries to accommodate the modernising generations and this iteration, made from premium leather and durable cushioning, is the most comfortable to date. It delivers ankle support through its mid-cut design that doesn’t rub against the skin while walking, features a rubber sole for optimal traction and a customisable velcro strap for easy wear.

Air Jordan 1 Zoom Comfort, $200 at Nike

Air Jordan 1 Zoom Comfort. Image: Nike.Source:BodyAndSoul

The Air Jordan 1 is one of history’s most iconic sneakers and single-handedly created modern sneaker culture thanks to legendary basketball player Michael Jordan. While original Air Jordan 1s have sold for a few hundred thousand dollars, you can certainly get your hands on this version that’s been refined with comfort at the forefront for a lot less. They’ve been crafted with full-grain leather in the upper, a cosy lining and responsive cushioning so you can walk and stand hours in these and not get a single blister.

Adokoo Women’s High Top Canvas Sneakers, from $41.72 at Amazon

Adokoo Women’s High Top Canvas Sneakers. Image: Amazon.Source:BodyAndSoul

If you’re unsure whether the high top sneaker is the right shoe for you, you might want to settle for a more wallet-friendly pair while you test them out. Enter the Adokoo sneakers, available on Amazon. A budget version of the Chuck Taylors, these shoes are made from a high-quality canvas upper, a soft padded insole and an anti-slip rubber sole. The hundreds of five-star reviews on Amazon sum up why these shoes are a great entry point.

“I'm a preschool teacher and I'm always on my feet and need shoes that can get dirty,” one person explained. “These shoes are washable and cheap, I get a new pair every couple months. Always fresh and clean at work. Look just like converse.”

Another person wrote: “The only difference between these and [Converses] are the logo. They might even be more comfortable. Most other dupes I've found have had weird stitching, or just something that was obviously off. I'm so stoked I found these.”

They’re currently available in 12 different colourways with sizes ranging from 5 US to 11 US.

Volley Deuce Leather High, $129.99 at The Iconic

Volley Deuce Leather High. Image: The Iconic.Source:BodyAndSoul

Whether you’re out with friends for a long summer lunch, strolling around the city or hitting up festivals and music concerts, these smart-looking high tops will be by your side every step of the way. They’re made with 100 per cent genuine Napa leather for a more sophisticated design compared to canvas shoes, and have a shock-absorbing footbed and inner-padding tongue-to-toe for all-day comfort.

Balenciaga Speed Stretch-Knit High-Top Sneakers, $1,175 at Net-A-Porter

Balenciaga Speed Stretch-Knit High-Top Sneakers. Image: Net-A-Porter.Source:BodyAndSoul

While not everyone’s cup of tea - financially and fashionably - Balenciaga’s Speed Stretch-Knit High-Top Sneakers have quickly become the 21st century’s it-shoe to own (thank you, Kim Kardashian). Rest assured, you’re not just paying for the brand — they’re also touted as one of the most comfortable designer shoes because of the stretchy slip-on sock design and bouncy chunky soles. They also come in a beige-white and all-black, as well as a range of seasonal and exclusive prints, although expect to pay a bit more for the latter.

Vans SK8-Hi Unisex Sneakers, from $109.03 at Amazon

Vans SK8-Hi Unisex Sneakers. Image: Amazon.Source:BodyAndSoul

With a look that transports you back to the era when the Madden brothers and Avril Lavigne reigned supreme, the Vans SK8-Hi is a shoe every sneakerhead must have in their repertoire. It’s known to be one of the most comfortable skate sneakers on the market ever since its launch back in 1978 and can definitely be enjoyed by non-skaters, too. Countless wearers with wider feet have noted they’re one of the only shoes they can happily wear all day.

“Very good build, a combination of rubbered fabric and suede,” one person explained. “It also fits the unfortunate that have wide feet, for which the shoe industry has little consideration.”

A second person simply wrote: “Wide and comfortable.”

Even if you have slim feet, you can pleasantly enjoy these shoes simply by sizing down.

Aquila Deco White Hi Top Sneakers, $249 at Myer

Aquila Deco White Hi Top Sneakers. Image: Myer.Source:BodyAndSoul

Men, high tops don't have to be reserved for trackie dacks and jeans. Want to wear high tops with dress pants? No problems, simply invest in these Aquila Deco sneakers. Featuring a leather upper and rubber sole, these shoes are sleek and sophisticated enough to take you from day to night. The simple design also makes styling them fuss-free.

Common Projects High Top Sneakers, $920 at The Iconic

Common Projects High Top Sneakers. Image: The Iconic.Source:BodyAndSoul

The epitome of athleisure wear, these statement high tops from Common Projects are manufactured in Italy and feature a smoother leather upper, front lace-up fastening, round toe and rubber sole. With the higher price tag also comes unparalleled quality so expect to have these for years and years.

What is a high top sneaker?

As the name suggests, a high top sneaker is a shoe that extends slightly over the wearer’s ankle. They came into the mainstream in the 1980s with Nike’s legendary Air Jordan campaign and were considered a revolutionary footwear of choice for athletes, particularly for basketball players. Nowadays, high tops aren’t just reserved for sports — they come in a range of designs to cater to a variety of occasions.

Because they are laced higher up compared to low top shoes, the ankle and foot complex has limited motion, thus providing more support.

Note: each person’s ankle and foot complex is different so it’s best to see a healthcare professional like a podiatrist, who will be able to advise on what type of shoe will provide maximum support for you.

What are the best high top sneakers?

Of course, the best high top sneakers come down to personal preference. Below are a few factors you should consider when purchasing the best pair for you.

How do you wear high top sneakers?

Wearing high top sneakers does require a bit more thought compared to its no-frills low top sibling. However, get the knack of it and you’ll find they’re actually extremely versatile. Below are some ideas to help get you started:

In need of some more fashionable and functional footwear? Check out our roundup of the best Nike running shoes that will make pounding the pavement feel like a breeze. Plus, the best hiking shoes you can walk hours in without feeling any discomfort.

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