Best Designer Sock Sneakers from Balenciaga, Nike, Adidas, Reebok, & More
(+ Affordable Alternatives!)
Sock sneakers achieved a cult-like following after the Balenciaga iconic Balenciaga Speed Trainer launch in 2016.
A curiosity ten years ago, nowadays, sock sneakers are everywhere.
In this article, I’ve curated the 27 best sock sneakers you can buy now.
I’ve selected these sock sneakers for their quality, look, comfort, and price, ensuring I create an offering large enough for all tastes and budgets.
One more thing; with the advent of Flyknit, Primeknit, and other sustainable fashion materials, most sneaker kicks on my list are cruelty-free and eco-friendly.
Without further ado, these are 27 of the trendiest sock sneakers in 2023Â (ordered by price).
1/27
Speed 2.0 Sock-Style Sneakers
BALENCIAGA
from $895
Editor’s Note
Designed to brighten up any of your casual looks.
Following the company’s global success with Balenciaga Speed sock lace-up sneakers and Balenciaga Speed sock-style sneakers, the Speed 2.0 takes it up a notch.
Designed with the same Technical 3D knit and sock-style construction as the originals, this iconic pair has been updated with an articulated molded sole, boasting extra flexibility while maintaining its strength.
It is what the experts call “the perfect sneaker upgrade.”
For this top 27 best sneaker sock selection, I’ve chosen the Balenciaga Speed.2 Sock-style in bright orange with the logo lettering on the side.
Moreover, these beauties come in some of the most elegant colors you can imagine, so make sure you choose the one that suits your animal spirit best.
2/27
Lettie Knit Sock Sneakers
KURT GEIGER LONDON
from $175
Editor’s Note
No modern sneaker collection is complete without a bit of rainbow influence, and in my opinion, this pair of sneakers is the unicorn one.
Sitting atop a chunky sole with multicolored rubber inserts, the Lettie Knit sock sneakers from Kurt Geiger London use rainbow hues to illustrate the unifying values the label stands for.
The knitted style is perfect for infusing off-duty looks with a sports-luxe appeal, making the pair a versatile addition to your collection.
The Lettie Sock from Kurt Geiger has a cutting-edge design and features a black sock-style upper, playful branding, and multicolored accents trimming the outsole.
All in all, this progressive knit sock sneaker style sends the chunky-profile trainer in a fresh new direction.
3/27
Run.r Sock Sneakers
REEBOK
from $98
Editor’s Note
The off-white, cut-out, chunky soles of these sock-style runners deliver a simple yet, futuristic look that won’t break the bank.
Reebok capitalizes on the sock sneaker craze that’s gripped the world recently with their rare Sock Run.r edition.
These beauties feature a knitted style, an ankle length, and a ridged rubber sole.
Take a walk on the wild side with these Run.r Sock sneakers from Reebok.
4/27
NMD City Sock Sneakers
ADIDAS X WHITE MOUNTAINEERING
$211
Editor’s Note
Finished with triangular White Mountaineering branding on the tongue and white heel tab, the upper stands tall atop a crisp Boost sole with contrasting black shanks.
These high-demand rarities come with an innovative, simple design that defines the White Mountaineering x Adidas NMD City Sneaker Sock.
It is also the first-ever three-stripe branding on an NMD City Sock to appear on the black Primeknit upper.
And, to top it up, the tongue and heel tape details are the icing on the cake.
The bootie-like silhouette features a striated black Primeknit upper adorned with three co-branded chevron-taped seams.
5/27
Sock Dart SE Premium Sneakers
NIKE
$75
Editor’s Note
Nike’s game-changing Flyknit fabric is designed to stabilize your foot and keep it comfortable during even the most strenuous physical activity.
The Nike Sock Dart sock sneaker style was initially released in 2004 as light gym workout shoes.
The sock sneaker was one of the first Nike shoes to feature knit uppers, and buyers’ opinions were split at the time.
However, Sock Dart returned in late 2014, and it’s been one of Nike’s most demanded sock sneakers ever since.
Stocked by major streetwear retailers like Flight Club, Nike Sock Dart SE Premium is a low-top sock sneaker with a stylish translucent strap over the midfoot, personalized via NikeiD technology.
The new Nike Sock Dart SE Premium comes with top quality sock-like textile upper for extra cooling, complementing lightweight and comfortable foam cushioning.
No wonder the ultra-comfortable and minimalist style of the Nike Sock Dart SE Premium is one of the most admired by sneakerheads.
6/27
Originals NMD C1 Sneakers
ADIDAS
$180
Editor’s Note
Fashion statement here. An absolute women’s sneaker classic that’ll make you stand out from a mile.
An Adidas Originals release, the NMD C1 sock sneaker is one of the 2020 Spring / Summer Collection highlights.
The Adidas NMD — short for Nomad — is a popular casual sneaker that combines old design concepts with new technology, notably, Boost cushioning and occasional Primeknit uppers.
The NMD Chukka is, as you’d expect, a chukka boot – with red and blue elements, laces, and eyelets kept to a minimum.
7/27
Sock-Style High-Top Sneakers
Red(V)
$420
Editor’s Note
Uniqueness and originality ooze from these sock sneakers, in particular from the cut of chunky rubber soles.
These sock-style sneakers from RED(V) come in black mesh and feature mesh slip panels, a two-tone design, a pull tab at the rear, a round toe, and a chunky rubber sole.
8/27
Logo Knit Sock Sneakers
MOSCHINO
$450
Editor’s Note
I dig the full black version of this sock sneaker; the teddy bear’s childish sole fades away, giving way to a deep minimalist fashion look.
These rare Moschino sock sneakers are from the Italian luxury fashion house founded in 1983 by Franco Moschino.
Made in Italy, these knitted sock sneakers from Moschino feature a high-top silhouette, logo on the front, and bear-shaped sole.
The bear-shaped sole made the Italian company change the sneaker name to ‘Teddy Shoes High Sock Sneakers’ after initially launching it as ‘Moschino Logo Knit Sock Sneakers.’
9/27
Originals NMD_CS2 Primeknit Sneakers
ADIDAS
from $100
Editor’s Note
The color of this pair is unique compared to other NMD CS2s out there. See a cheaper (black) alternative below.
I chose this navy and white cotton Adidas Originals NMD_CS2 Primeknit sneakers featuring a round toe, branded insole, and a rubber sole.
The pair has a super comfortable slip-on style and a pull tab at the rear for extra comfort.
10/27
Speed Pull-On Sneakers
BALENCIAGA
$795
Editor’s Note
Probably the most copied pair of sock sneakers globally; these are the original ones. Moreover, there’s the louder and more expensive neon-pink version for the more extroverted ones – see below.
You can never go wrong with the OG of sock sneakers, Balenciaga.
This iteration of the brand’s iconic silhouette is sculpted with a thicker ankle cuff for added comfort and soft memory foam fabric that envelops your foot.
The iconic model has a fuss-free pull-on design, almond toe, ankle length, ribbed cuffs, a printed logo, and a thick rubber sole.
11/27
Classic Sock Runner Sneakers
VETEMENTS X REEBOK
from $175
Editor’s Note
Reebok Innovation Collective houses collaborations with partners like Vetements, Cottweiler, and Opening Ceremony to create new technologies like FlexWeave and FloatRide.
Designed in collaboration with Reebok, these white Classic Sock Runner sneakers from Vetements offer a balance of form and function.
These shoes are made with stretchy, sock-like knit uppers and set on comfortable gum rubber soles.
Also, coming in two colorways, these black sneakers feature two contrasting red stripes on the ankle with white Vetements branding.
Both sneakers feature a Reebok logo on the sole and a blue ‘LEFT’ and ‘RIGHT’ on each foot, so you’ll never accidentally put them on the wrong shoe again.
12/27
Raquel Sock Sneakers
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
from $651
Editor’s Note
This is your rare chance to get your hands on a pair of futuristic-looking, high-tech sneakers from a company that’s in the shoe history books.
Synonymous with fine craftsmanship, Salvatore Ferragamo is an Italian luxury fashion brand that has started its journey as a shoe company.
Made from stretchy fabric that contours the shape of your foot, Salvatore Ferragamo’s sock-style sneakers are far comfier than they look.
Moreover, the iconic Gancini hardware gives these sneakers a sleek touch and matches the gunmetal hardware on your favorite vegan handbag.
13/27
XY Knitted Sock Trainers
PRADA
from $450
Editor’s Note
If you want to uplift not just your footwear but your mood as well, you’ve got to get this comfy pair of XY knitted sock trainers from Prada.
These black Prada sneakers are designed with a flexible rubber sole and tight, ribbed uppers.
The slip-on sock style is constructed to a mid-height with a pull tab for easy fit.
So much so that every little step you take is as comfortable as walking around the house in your favorite socks.
Featuring a ridged sole and a lace-up accent, this pair is finished with contrasting branding to the upper.
Above all, this pair is considered by many sneaker experts as an excellent investment.
14/27
B-Bold High-top Sneakers
BALMAIN
$995
Editor’s Note
A fun, teal colorway coated in glitter for those who want to stand out. While a bit more expensive, I prefer the black version; it matches my golden iPhone.
When your attire requires style and comfort, you get Balmain’s B-Bold sock sneakers with air cushions.
B-Bold’s sock-style ankle and bouncy chunky sole ensure you’ll be the center of attention, no matter the event you’re attending.
15/27
Logo Sock Sneaker
GIVENCHY
$850
Editor’s Note
With a look suitable for Y2K styles, this bubblegum pink pair of sock sneakers combine the chunky sole and the latest high-top sock-fit footwear trends.
Apart from the lovely pink color, the Givenchy 3D logo detailed on the cuff of the tall sock knit makes these bad boys stand out from a mile.
Moreover, the ribbed upper comes in an aerodynamic design, mixing nicely with a chunky sole in a faceted and translucent cushioning set.
16/27
Fabric Sock Sneakers
FENDI
$950
Editor’s Note
You either like it, or you hate it. I, when I see it, think sport-luxe at its finest.
Here’s something cool I bet you did not know; F is for the fire emoji.
Well, that’s what your friends will send you when you’re going to drop a picture of your new Fendi sock sneakers in your group chat. And yes, you’re welcome!
Fendi’s SS18 footwear’s Victorian-inspired line continues to impress with its beautiful cuts, designed for the contemporary woman.
These black stretch fabric sneaker boots are crafted in Italy from metallic yarn and feature a sock-like upper with ribbed edging and horizontal stripes.
The knitted construction sits on a flat but comfy rubber sole, matched with decorative laces.
17/27
Chunky Lace-Up Sock Trainers
BALENCIAGA
$975
Editor’s Note
If you’re aiming for new heights in your life – you know what I mean, these lace-up sock trainers from Balenciaga are the ones for you.
Designed in a subtle black, these rare Balenciaga Chunky Lace-up sock trainers come complete with a sizeable geometrical rubber sole and soft fabric construction for all-day comfort.
18/27
Sock Runner Sneakers
RICK OWENS X VEJA
$142
Editor’s Note
Boasting a sock-style ankle and mesh paneling, these Rick Owens sneakers are the only thing preventing you from suffering from foot pain.
Rick Owens injects his signature style into the ecological sneaker brand Veja.
These low-top sock runner sneakers are crafted from a technical fabrication in a mesh-knit weave, featuring open mesh detail, lace-up fastening, and rubber sole.
19/27
Dmx Trail Hydrex Marathon Running Sock Sneakers
REEBOK
$240
Editor’s Note
The DMX Trail Hydrex Marathon is a hybrid shoe; part scuba boot – part trail-runner, this shoe alone keeps the sock sneaker trend alive.
The Reebok’s DMX Trail Hydrex Marathon sock sneakers feature exposed-seam detailing, round toe, a slip-on style, ankle-length, EVA midsole, and a chunky rubber sole.
The scuba-reminiscent uppers are green neoprene with black rubberized overlays providing an abstract take on Reebok’s Vector logo.
The entire assemblage is rounded up with a leather mudguard, toe cap, and heel reinforcement, while a lugged outsole with hints of yellow finalizes the look.
20/27
Turquoise Knot Sock Sneakers
JOSHUA SANDERS
$335
Editor’s Note
Super comfortable sneakers can be worn as every day, ballet, or even ankle trainers.
These turquoise Joshua Sanders Bow Detail Sock Sneakers are for the lazy girl who needs to pull up her socks regarding the latest sneaker trends.
Crafted from stretchy spandex, they feature a comfortable foam rubber sole and pull-on and have an oversized bow detailing the front.
You can wear your Joshua Sanders Bow Detail Sock Sneakers with a vintage clothing hoodie under a vegan leather jacket.
21/27
Knit Sock Sneakers
JOSHUA SANDERS
$413
Editor’s Note
One of the very few blue sock sneakers out there, these Joshua Sanders kicks will fire up your inner creative individual (so you’re a DJ?) in no time.
Joshua Sanders developed his namesake line of signature skate sneakers as if it were an exercise in reinventing the wheel.
The designer combines the streetwear style of his home base of New York City with the traditional Italian craftsmanship expected of a luxury footwear brand.
Wielding a distinctive repertoire of modifications, from textural anomalies and iridescence to bold graphic prints, these sock sneakers with chunky soles are the perfect example of style and craftsmanship.
22/27
MM Logo Sock Sneakers
MAISON MARGIELA
$415
Editor’s Note
Trying to be promoted as a resident fashion icon at the office? Master street-style art with these logo print sock-style sneakers from MM6 Maison Margiela.
These are the new MM6 ankle sock-style sneakers from Maison Margiela.
The kicks come in black fabric, featuring only the brand’s logo embellishment on the right shoe.
The design of these breathable sneakers is almond toe, sitting on a solid, chunky rubber sole.
23/27
Loop Sock Sneakers
STELLA MCCARTNEY
$645
Editor’s Note
A stunning pair of chunky sneakers from a British designer – renowned for her bold but feminine styles – is an award pair of Highsnobiety Sneakers.
Using ethically sourced and environmentally-friendly fabrics, Stella McCartney has made sustainable fashion sexy again.
These stylish Stella McCartney sock sneakers with rib-knit finish feature a round toe, a pull tab at the rear, a slip-on style, and a ridged white rubber sole.
From interning at Christian Lacroix at 16 to her role as Chloé’s Creative Director, Stella McCartney made a name for herself in the fashion industry well before launching her brand in 2001.
Since its inception, McCartney has remained dedicated to sustainability and has taken an ethically-minded design approach.
She has never used leather, feathers, skin, or fur in her pieces and created some of the most iconic sustainable sneakers.
24/27
High-Rise Loop Sneaker
STELLA MCCARTNEY
$665
Editor’s Note
The only pair of loop sock sneakers on this list, these graffiti-print sock sneakers by Stella are in a style class of their own.
The emergence of sock sneakers has seen many stylistic repetitions, most of them copying the classic Balenciaga sock sneakers.
Unfortunately, increased consumer demand for comfy AF Sock Sneakers made repetition complacent, eventually turning into boring sneakers.
But not with these bulky, oversize retro running-inspired sneakers from Stella, designed to make statements.
25/27
Light Jump Sock Sneakers
GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI
$714
Editor’s Note
Coming from a designer known for his sculptural luxury sneakers, these beauties are worth every penny!
Giuseppe Zanotti brings together the expertise of Italian craftsmanship with urban designs.
Presented in crisp white, these Light Jump sneakers offer a new take on the high-top silhouette by showcasing its sock-style design, decorated with a logo patch to the front.
On top of that, the detail and craftsmanship across every inch are flawless, with no thread misplaced or stitching askew.
26/27
Sock-Style High Top Sneakers
ZARA
$39.99 $9.99
Editor’s Note
The price; at £9.99, these sock sneakers are cheaper than the cheapest shoes you can buy, even at Primark.
Swap out your high-steppers for sock-like sneakers that feel like thick, cozy socks but with a sole.
With insoles made with ‘Starfit’ technology – a flexible technical polyurethane foam designed to offer greater comfort, these sneakers have a sock-effect elastic upper and a back pull tab.
This is an excellent price for a versatile pair of sock sneakers that comes in several colors.
27/27
Sock-Style Black High-Top Sneakers
ZARA
$59
Editor’s Note
The contrasting colors (black, white, and brown) allow several matching styles and outfits. But above all, I like the squared pattern at the back of the shoes; it works wonders if any Y2K outfits.
These high-top hybrid sock sneakers from Zara remind me somehow of the 5-Honor Sneaker from Sketchers.
Most likely is the price, as I’ve always considered Gowalk 5 Honor slip-on sneakers for women an ugly style, while these lightweight sneakers from Zara look great.
These sock boots are made from a shimmery stretch upper fabric combined with other materials at the back and toe.
The sole provides ‘cushy comfort’ in contrasting colors that can match many outfits.
To top it up, these kicks come with a breathable walking slip and a back pull tab.
Sock Sneakers FAQs
How to Style Balenciaga Sock Sneakers?
The best way to style Balenciaga sock sneakers is with tracksuit pants and a jacket, streetwear t-shirts in matching colors (Supreme is a great choice), and top it up with a denim jacket for extra effect.
What are the Best Sock Sneaker Brands?
The best five sock sneaker brands in 2023 are Balenciaga, Adidas, Nike, Balmain, and Reebok.
The Verdict
Sock sneakers are an unusual breed of shoes, at least when compared to classic kicks.
With a stretch-knit, breathable fabric, sock sneakers are a hybrid shoe made – as the name suggests – to resemble a sock.
The look existed before, but when Balenciaga launched its version of the sock sneaker in 2016, the style achieved a cult-like following fast.
A curiosity ten years ago, nowadays, sock sneakers are everywhere.
You see them on Instagram, assorted by social media influencers with techwear brands to create a sophisticated look.
You see them on the front row of runways in London, NYC, and Paris, worn by celebrities and designers alike.
And even on top chart songs, as was the case of Cardi B wearing Balenciaga’s chunky Triple-S in her song “I Like It.”
While fit sneaker silhouettes like Balenciaga’s Speed Trainer and Adidas NMD City Sock are highly recognizable and desirable, Nike and Reebok recover ground fast.
Launching knitted textiles shoes that compete with Balenciaga and Vetements, the number of brands making sock-like sneakers is rising.
With advents like Nike Flyknit and Adidas Primeknit, kicks are cozier than ever, so get your pair of sock sneakers right now; you won’t regret it a bit.
The market is broad and ripe for any breed of shoe your heart desires: mesh sneakers, metallic sock sneakers, flat sock-style sneakers, floral neoprene sock sneakers – you name it, they have it.
And, with hopes you’ve enjoyed this article covering the 27 best sock sneakers, here’s a final word.
In 2022 we saw a return to the early embroidered ankle sock sneakers, but now, in 2023, we see the emergence of abstract print sock sneakers.
If you didn’t know, now you know.
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Now it’s your turn…
Which one of these sock sneakers is your favorite and why?
Are there any other sock sneakers you’ve tried and want to add to this list?
Please leave your comments below; we always appreciate them and use them to learn, improve, and update these articles.
After years of managing hundreds of fashion brands from London's office of a global retailer, Mandy has ventured into freelancing. Connected with several fashion retailers and media platforms in the US, Australia, and the UK, Mandy uses her expertise to consult for emerging fashion brands create top-notch content as an editorial strategist for several online publications.
Adidas capitalized on this trend so well, that they’ve made millions with their MD line. But my fav sock sneakers remain the Japanese Toguchi, google it.