Our shortlist of 2025’s best black trainers
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 2025. 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.
New Balance 740
A fan favourite from the 2000s running catalogue, New Balance recently brought back its 740 silhouette for a new generation of wearers – and we’re grateful for it. A classic set-up from the Boston brand, this all-black version boasts a mesh upper with angular synthetic overlays and signature ABZORB comfort underfoot.
adidas Adizero Evo SL
This Adizero Evo SL is the perfect silhouette that takes from the coffee shop, through the commute and later to the run club. A black breathable upper is marked with bold white 3-Stripes, claiming authenticity, while a chunky Lightstrike midsole offers that all-important energy return.
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 Superstar Premium – size? exclusive
This size? exclusive take on the adidas Originals Superstar Premium is an elevated, high-fashion design that draws inspiration from the silhouette’s musical heritage and generations of fandom. Brushed black suede and distressed detailing? We can’t say no.
Nike Shox TL
Recently, this 2003 icon has made a solid comeback from the archives, and now the Nike Shox TL is a certified must-have, especially in this sleek, all-black outfit. Everything is as it should be with a breezy mesh and TPU upper, and below, the mechanical columns add that famous bounce.
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.
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 the best black sneakers to buy this year, expect everything from GORE-TEX to skate styles.
ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14
Originally released in 2008, the GEL-KAYANO 14 was the first of the series to be designed by someone other than Toshikazu Kayano. Visible GEL technology shines out from the sole unit, while ASICS caging on the sidewalls nods to heritage.
Nike Air Force 1 Low Pony Hair
You don’t get much more classic than a ‘Triple Black’ Air Force 1; that being said, Nike aren’t strangers to mixing things up a bit. The latest silhouette to receive the makeover of the moment, the AF1 arrives dressed entirely in faux pony hair for an unexpected twist.
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.
New Balance 509
A recent archival revival from New Balance, the 509 has a classic mesh-heavy build that’s layered with patent, leather and synthetic strips. This irresistible all-black iteration is easy to style and boasts that signature comfort the Boston brand is renowned for.
Nike Air Max Muse
Designed exclusively for women, the Air Max Muse is a recent addition to the Air Max dynasty. With innovation at the forefront of its make-up, the silhouette has exaggerated proportions on the split midsole, along with a heightened arch and angled Air bubble.
PUMA Speedcat Ballet
A traditional black trainer alternative here from PUMA, the Speedcat Ballet adopts a sturdy leather upper that’s secured with elasticated banding. The Speedcat tooling is kept the same underfoot with the familiar tyre-inspired rubber outsole, while the heel features extra padding so you don’t have to worry about remembering to carry plasters.
Hungry for more? Head over to size? now for extra inspiration.




