Sneakers are no longer the afterthought of an outfit they are the foundation. In 2025, trainers have matured from a symbol of rebellion to an expression of quiet confidence and self-curation. Whether you’re walking through Soho or catching a flight to Milan, the modern man’s wardrobe starts with footwear that bridges form and function. In this LEWIS feature, we look beyond the hype drops and collabs to spotlight five sneakers that stand out for all the right reasons: timeless silhouettes, craftsmanship, and day-to-night versatility.
The New Language of Sneakers
The evolution of the sneaker tells the story of modern menswear itself one that moves between street culture, heritage design, and technical innovation. What began as athletic necessity has become a style language of precision and intent.
This year, we’re seeing a recalibration: heritage silhouettes re-issued with subtle upgrades, muted palettes replacing the neon wave, and premium materials that reflect maturity rather than trend. The best sneakers in 2025 aren’t loud they’re confident in understatement.
So whether you’re a collector or a minimalist, these five pairs will take you from weekday edits to weekend downtime without missing a beat.
Nike Air Force 1 ’07 — The Eternal Icon
If there were a national uniform for cool, this would be it. The Nike Air Force 1 ’07 has outlived fads, hype, and half a century of style changes. Crisp white leather, tonal stitching, and that unmistakable sole it’s as much a cultural artefact as it is footwear.
Why it works:
- Clean and adaptable design
- Works with jeans, trousers, and even tailoring
- Reliable comfort and solid build quality
Editor’s tip: Keep them immaculate. The power of the AF1 lies in its freshness invest in a shoe-cleaning kit and store with paper inserts to maintain shape.
Nike Air Force 1 ’07 — The Eternal Icon
Available at Foot Locker
£ 109.99
New Balance 574 — Heritage Meets Utility
When “dad shoes” became the new luxury, New Balance was already waiting. The 574 remains the brand’s most versatile silhouette suede, mesh, and balance. Born in the late 1980s, it’s aged like good denim.
Why it works:
- Blends retro nostalgia with modern comfort
- Pairs perfectly with chinos, denim, or relaxed tailoring
- Neutral tones make it endlessly wearable
Style note: Try the grey colourway for an effortless minimalist tone. Pair with rolled khaki or straight-leg selvedge jeans for a classic look.
New Balance 574 — Heritage Meets Utility
Available at Foot Locker
£ 119.99
New Balance 740 — Elevated Everyday
For those who prefer subtle sophistication over hype-fuelled chaos, the New Balance 740 nails the balance between design intelligence and comfort. Its silhouette hints at running roots but the construction feels modern, making it ideal for smart-casual wear.
Why it works:
- Premium suede overlays with structural mesh
- Cushioned sole for all-day comfort
- Neutral colourways perfect for muted wardrobes
Style note: Wear them with an unstructured navy blazer and white tee for a smart-off-duty mix that says refinement, not effort.
New Balance 740 — Elevated Everyday
Available at Foot Locker
£ 74.99
Puma Speedcat OG — The Motorsport Revival
When quiet luxury meets the racetrack. The Puma Speedcat OG is the 2000s motorsport revival done right sleek, narrow, and sharp in profile. Originally built for F1 pit crews, it’s found new life as an understated lifestyle staple.
Why it works:
- Distinct low-slung silhouette with heritage edge
- Soft suede upper and refined tonal branding
- Appeals to minimalist and retro enthusiasts alike
Editor’s tip: Pair the rust or deep-navy version with black trousers and a white vest under an overshirt for a subtle nod to vintage utility.
Puma Speedcat OG — The Motorsport Revival
Available at Foot Locker!
R$235
ASICS Gel-NYC — Minimal Luxury in Motion
The ASICS Gel-NYC bridges Japanese precision with New York sensibility. It’s quietly dominating 2025’s sneaker conversation modern, technical, and luxurious without shouting.
Why it works:
- Layered design that merges streetwear and high fashion
- Exceptional comfort and structure
- Understated colourways suitable for luxury casual outfits
Style note: The beige-grey palette works seamlessly with tailored wool trousers and minimalist outerwear — think COS meets Officine Générale.
£ 99.99
How to Build Your Sneaker Rotation
Think of sneakers as your foundation wardrobe they should fit into your lifestyle as intuitively as your best white shirt.
Here’s how to create balance across your choices:
- The Clean White Pair: For smart-casual and everyday use (Nike Air Force 1 or adidas Grand Court).
- The Heritage Runner: For laid-back weekends (New Balance 574 or 740).
- The Elevated Statement: For subtle individuality (ASICS Gel-NYC or Puma Speedcat).
When combined, these cover nearly every occasion from client lunches to long-haul flights.
The Styling Philosophy
- Keep the palette neutral. Muted whites, greys, and navy outlast trends.
- Contrast textures. Suede with denim, leather with wool.
- Mind the trousers. Avoid overly long hems; cropped or cuffed silhouettes show the shoe properly.
- Minimal branding wins. The best sneakers whisper design quality rather than shout status.
- Rotate and care. A sneaker care routine extends lifespan — use shoe trees and gentle cleaners regularly.
In an age where choice can overwhelm, the real flex is restraint. These five sneakers don’t scream for attention they command it quietly. Whether you lean toward streetwear, contemporary classics, or tailored minimalism, this line-up forms the cornerstone of a well-dressed life.
Sneakers may have started in sport, but in 2025, they’ve become symbols of balance performance, craft, and self-expression walking side by side.
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means Lewis might earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
