Tread talk: the hottest sneaker trends of 2023.

Looks
by Afterpay
Nov 17, 2023      6 min read

When you need to pull together an outfit that’s comfortable but snatched, you can’t walk past a good pair of sneakers. From cult classics to the kind your old man used to wear, sneakers are the supportive and practical MVP of wardrobe staples for good reason.


They’re the dependable all-rounders in our shoe lineup, ready to dress up or dial down whatever the mood (and weather) brings.


So if your go-to treads are giving off a ‘survived a festival’ vibe or you’ve worn them down to the sole, this guide is for you. Let’s take a look at what’s hot and what’s trending for sneakers in 2023. 

Dad sneakers: for every comfort seeker.     

It’s no secret that Dad sneakers are having a moment. From A-list celebs to the hipster next door, everyone is stepping out in style and rocking ‘em like it’s 1992. 

The Dad sneaker brief is pretty easy to hit: blend comfort with cool. That’s probably why New Balance sneakers continue to top the latest must-have lists. They’re sleek (enough), oh-so-comfy and proof that style doesn’t have to hurt your soles. We love these New Balance, Made in USA 990v4 beauties. Pair them with jorts for an on-brand look. 

And let’s not forget Salomon sneakers, catapulted into the limelight by Rihanna, who wore low tops from their MM6 Maison Margiela’s collab during her iconic Super Bowl performance. These chunky-soled kicks offer lush cushioning with grippy rubber soles and a block heel to take you from the dance floor to a hiking track without a blister in sight. 

Classic trends: sneakers for women (and everyone else!)

When it comes to sneaker mainstays, classics like the adidas Originals SAMBA OG SHOES have held their ground. The OG of cool kicks, the Samba was originally made for soccer players but quickly morphed into a street fashion staple. These low-profile but highkey-cool sneakers feature an original gum sole (hello, traction), soft leather upper and all the things you’d expect from a unisex top seller.  

Next up, there’s chucks. No trending sneaker list would be complete without the All Star shoes we know and love, thanks to a basketballer with sore feet named Chuck Taylor. From heritage-design kicks to platform high tops, you can’t go wrong with these legendary sneakers for women (and everyone else, TBH). 

And ladies, if retro vibes with neutral tones excite you, snag yourself a pair of Nike Women’s Cortez “Brown Cacao”. They’re classic, cool and nostalgic enough to cruise the shops or finish off your festival outfit.  

Statement makers: for stepping out bold.

If dopamine dressing has taught us anything, it’s that we love to be loud. And boy, do these sneakers shout. These are the kicks that don’t just complement an outfit – they become the main event. 

The adidas Samba Vegan brings a fierce look with planet-friendly creds, making it a  crowd-favourite sneaker for men. Not loud enough for you? Chloé’s multi-panel lace-up sneakers serve up major luxe feels with a streetwear edge, giving your sneaker game a whole new level of flex. 

If you like your style with a side of cloud-like comfort, HOKA is where it’s at. Their designs are bold enough to be noticed but innovative enough to keep you moving comfortably across any terrain. 

Step up your style with Afterpay. 

So whether you’re vibing with Dad sneakers, keeping it OG with the classics or making a statement that screams “look at me”, these sneaker trends of 2023 are ready for purchase through Afterpay. Buy now and pay in four wherever you see our logo.  


Afterpay BNPL late fees, eligibility criteria, retailer terms and T&Cs apply. See afterpay.com for full terms.

More Articles