There’s nothing quite as classic as the right pair of black trainers, year after year they prove themselves to be the pinnacle of modern wardrobes everywhere. The beauty of your faithful pairs is that you can opt into dressing them up or down – for those of us who dress from the feet up, black trainers can be anything from our formal attire to the best option to take on the trails.

Although black sneakers are a trusty year-round constant, they are especially handy when the weather turns and white trainers can’t really cut it anymore. So, without further ado, here is your curated guide to our handpicked best black trainers of 2024. Keep reading to find the silhouette you’ve been waiting to meet.

Best men’s black trainers

With so many options in the black trainer space, it can be hard to narrow it down – triple black will usually hit the mark, but then again, so will a hint of colour. Our men’s black sneaker shortlist is here to help – take a look below at some of our favourites.

Nike Air Max Dn

A newer silhouette to Nike’s Air Max lineage, the Air Max Dn hallmarked the natural evolution of the Tn. If you’re looking for black Nike trainers – this one is a good place to start. The mainly black design is anchored by a dual-chambered four-tubed Air Unit, in other words, reactive cushioning makes for a cloud-like experience.

On Running Cloudhorizon Waterproof

It’s all about On here, the Cloudhorizon Waterproof is ideal for the upcoming wetter seasons thanks to its waterproof membrane that keeps the elements at bay. As usual, the sole unit is the star of the show with its chunky, lightweight midsole that offers a bouncy ride across any terrain.

adidas Originals Handball Spezial

Why not go for a classic? The Handball Spezial is everything you could want from a black trainer and more. Black suede is interrupted only by contrasting white leather and heel tab, while underfoot, it’s a rubber sole unit that anchors the design. This terrace shoe is one of the best with extra arch support, you can wear these all day, every day.

HOKA Clifton 9

We’re currently on the ninth iteration of HOKA’s renowned Clifton series – and it’s a good one. The Clifton 9 is a great example of how to do an all-black ensemble with a breathable engineered knit upper and chunky midsole that’s balanced, comfy and offers energy with every stride.

Nike LD-1000

An archival one from Nike next, the LD-1000 is a retro runner that laid the way for many modern silhouettes that followed. You can enjoy something a little different with the upper, it arrives in the traditional knit and suede outfit with a heritage-style Swoosh at the sidewalls – and just like it was back in ‘77, the waffle sole makes a comeback with its iconic flare.

Salomon ACS+

Timeless. Classic. Icon. Salomon’s ACS+ merges archival design and functional tech and is the perfect companion for any adventure. The sleek all-black finish never looked better, the 2000s-inspired silhouette is coated with an anti-debris mesh and will offer a strong foothold for reliable support.

Best women’s black trainers

Black trainers are classic and are an essential part of any collection but with so many options out there it can be hard to make the call. We have made the choice a little easier for you with our shortlist of best black sneakers to buy this year, expect everything from GORE-TEX to skate styles.

Salomon XT-6 GORE-TEX

First things first, GORE-TEX is always a good idea – don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Salmon’s XT-6 GORE-TEX is a techy option that is the perfect blend of fashion and function with a toggle closure and durable cushioning that truly cradles the foot for lasting comfort.

adidas Originals Campus 00s

The Campus 00s has become a solid favourite for 2024, although available in a host of colours, what could be more classic than black with hits of white on the 3-Stripes? Made with part-recycled content, this legacy silhouette comes with exaggerated proportions inspired by 00s’ skate culture.

New Balance Made in USA 990v6

New Balance’s Made in USA lineage has been going from strength to strength with Teddy Santis at the helm. Might we recommend the lifestyle grail as your next black trainer choice – the 990v6? The black upper is highlighted with sporty metallic hues, while the chunky ENCAP sole unit sits below in a cloud-like white/grey uniform.

Converse Chuck 70 Hi

If an iconic black and white trainer is out there, it’s the Converse Chuck 70 Hi. Originally built for the hardwood, this silhouette has been a pin-up on the music scene, the height of fashion and a regular on city streets ever since. Complete with a vintage-style licence plate and All Star ankle patch, you can’t go wrong.

adidas Originals Superstar

Steeped in history, the Superstar was also a silhouette designed for the basketball courts but has since taken on a life of its own. With its legendary shell toe, this Original has risen to prominence every decade since its release in the ‘70s. Arriving in supple black leather with white detailing, the Superstar will finish off the outfit perfectly. 

Nike Shox R4

Taking design cues from spacesuits, Nike caused quite a stir when it released its Shox R4 in 2000. Far from traditional trainers, the silhouette boasted brand-new, head-turning technology with its 4 compressive columns that live under the heel and offer astro-worthy bounce. This remastered edition stays true to the OG and arrives in a sleek all-black outfit.

Hungry for more? Head over to size? now for extra inspiration.