6 Pairs of Varsity Sneakers to Know

Drawing inspiration from ballers on the court and models off duty, varsity sneakers proclaim a too cool for school attitude that's gender-neutral and universally desired. A cornerstone of casual dressing, the mega-comfortable shoe takes you anywhere you want to go - but trust us, this trend isn’t going anywhere soon.

From sporty staples to streamlined silhouettes, we’ve selected the shoe-ins for top varsity sneakers that can’t be missed this season.

A chunky trainer is just the thing to complement a pair of straight-leg trousers, completing your soft tailoring fits with an effortless streetwear sensibility. A white base that goes with anything is prime binge-wear material.

Give your kicks a refined vintage twist with MM6 Maison Margiela’s Inside Out 6 Court sneakers. Veneered in mesh and vegan leather with inner seams on the outside, this deconstructed pair is deliciously unusual while still maximally wearable.

Part of ASH’s SS22 collection, Joker Be Kind offers a beach-ready interpretation of the varsity sneaker. Its soothing pastel purple palette is decorated with textured mesh and towelling trim and set upon chunky outsoles. Crafted from eco-friendly materials, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint with every well-cushioned step.

Alexander McQueen's signature oversized sneaker with white leather upper and tonal platform gets a playful update. A pop of colour is injected in a most unexpected, understated way – through metallic rainbow eyelets.

Bigger and bolder, men’s varsity sneakers embrace the street retro trend that taps into ’90s skate culture - the cherry on top to graphic tees and cargo pants.

With their fire-engine red colour-blocked design and various iterations of the label’s logo - including an eye-catching enamelled metal triangle - Prada’s Downtown Lacca sneakers are undoubtedly the season’s hottest.

High-tops may have originated as a basketball shoe ensuring ankle support, but Amiri’s duo-tonal Skel sneakers punctuated with X-ray leather overlays are more than just functional. They’re here to add a punkish spirit to your sportswear.

If you’re not one for statement footwear, opt for Veja's minimal Campo sneakers instead. The low-key low-tops with mood-boosting blue leather appliqués exude boy-next-door allure for the everyday.