Low-Cost Kicks: 13 Affordable Sneakers That Still Look Cool

Sneaker prices are getting out of hand. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to drop half your rent on some hyped-up collab to look stylish. There’s a whole world of affordable trainers out there that nail the balance between price and aesthetic.

Classic silhouettes, clean lines and effortless cool – all for under £100/$100. These are the models worth knowing.

What Makes A Great Sneaker (Even If It’s Cheap)

Good Design

Think minimal branding, timeless shapes, and clean lines. Great design isn’t about shouting for attention – it’s about restraint.

Most high-end sneakers rely on simple silhouettes and subtle detail, and you can find that same aesthetic at a fraction of the cost.

 Versatility

A good sneaker should fit into your wardrobe like a Swiss army knife. Whether it’s jeans, chinos, cargos or shorts, the right pair will handle it all without looking out of place.

That means low-profile shapes, neutral tones, and a shape that isn’t too chunky or too slim.

Material & Colourways

White leather, black suede, gum rubber soles, tonal neutrals… the right materials elevate a budget sneaker to premium status.

Steer clear of shouty logos and stick with classic finishes to keep things looking elevated.

Cultural Cachet

Some shoes carry a built-in cool factor. Whether it’s thanks to decades of history, subcultural ties or a well-earned spot in fashion lore, certain silhouettes will always get the nod from style insiders.

The best bit? Many of them are still surprisingly affordable.

The Best Affordable Sneakers For Men

Adidas Samba

A global icon that’s stood the test of time, the Samba was originally built for indoor football but now reigns supreme on pavements worldwide.

With its gum sole, T-toe overlay and slim profile, it brings effortless European cool to any look.

Wear with relaxed tailoring or cuffed denim for that fashion-editor-off-duty vibe.

Shop now at END.

Nike Killshot 2

Nike at Zalando

If you’re into preppy minimalism, this one’s for you. Originally designed for racket sports, the Killshot 2 has clean leather uppers, suede overlays and a retro gum sole that adds a touch of Ivy League polish.

Great with chinos and a button-down, but also works with cropped cargos or a hoodie.

Shop now at Nike

Reebok Club C 85

A classic court shoe with real staying power. The Club C 85 has soft leather uppers, subtle branding and just the right amount of vintage energy.

Comfortable out of the box and endlessly versatile, it’s the kind of sneaker that can blend into smart-casual fits or anchor a minimalist streetwear outfit.

Shop now at Reebok

Converse Chuck 70

Not your standard All Star. The Chuck 70 is a premium reissue with higher foxing, a sturdier canvas upper, and an insole that doesn’t feel like cardboard.

It lends retro feel to any outfit and looks just as good with tailored trousers as it does with jeans and a white tee.

Shop now at Converse

Puma Suede Classic

Low-slung, subtly chunky and loaded with old-school appeal, the Puma Suede has a raw charisma that’s hard to beat.

Favoured by hip-hop heads, skaters and fashion obsessives alike, it’s a solid pick for guys who want something with a bit of attitude but not too much fuss.

Shop now at Puma

Vans Authentic / Old Skool

Whether you go for the minimalist Authentic or the stripe-detailed Old Skool, these Vans staples deliver a healthy dose of Californian cool. The canvas is durable, the colourways are endless, and the price tag is friendly.

Ideal for casual looks, festival fits or beach-to-bar dressing.

Shop now at SSENSE

New Balance 574

A more affordable route into the New Balance universe, the 574 keeps things simple with its retro-inspired design and ultra-wearable colourways.

They have that just-dad-enough energy that makes them trend-adjacent, without tipping into hype territory.

Great with relaxed denim and socks you actually want people to notice.

Shop now at END.

Superga 2750 Cotu Classic

Proof that Italians just do things better. The Superga 2750 has a fuss-free canvas upper, vulcanised sole and low profile that makes it a summer MVP.

They look especially good sockless with linen trousers or shorts, and come in a rainbow of tasteful, muted tones.

Shop now at Superga

Nike Blazer Low

Vintage basketball vibes with a modern streetwear sensibility. The Blazer’s chunky sole and Swoosh branding lend it a bit of boldness, but the overall silhouette remains simple enough to style in a variety of ways.

Suede versions lean casual, while leather takes things up a notch.

Shop now at Farfetch

ASICS GEL-1130

Asics at Zalando

A sleeper hit for anyone wanting a chunky runner without the resale price tag. The GEL-1130 delivers all the retro tech-runner aesthetics that are having a major moment, without the triple-digit price.

With breathable mesh panels, metallic detailing and ASICS’ GEL cushioning for all-day comfort, it’s the kind of sneaker that works equally well for city strolls or low-key nights out.

Style it with oversized trousers, hiking-inspired fits, or even modern tailoring for a contemporary clash.

Shop now at SSENSE

Adidas Gazelle

Sleeker than the Samba, with a slightly more modern take on the three-stripe formula. Suede uppers, bold colourways, and that slim sole make it a solid daily driver.

It’s easy to style but still packs visual interest, especially in tonal or colour-pop editions.

Shop now at SSENSE

Stepney Workers Club Dellow Canvas

East London attitude in sneaker form. The Dellow Canvas is quietly cool, with no obvious logos and a chunky rubber sole that adds a bit of heft.

It feels niche and intentional, the kind of thing someone with good taste just happens to be wearing.

Shop now at END.

Novesta Star Master

A hidden gem from Slovakia, Novesta makes canvas sneakers with serious character. The Star Master’s thick rubber sole and boxy shape give it vintage charm, while the hand-pressed construction adds a touch of artisan credibility.

Perfect if you want something no one else in the room is wearing.

Shop now at END.

Styling Tips: Making Cheap Sneakers Look Premium

• Keep Them Spotless: Dirt-cheap doesn’t have to mean dirty looking. Invest in a magic sponge, some sneaker cleaner and make upkeep part of your routine. Fresh-looking shoes instantly elevate everything else.
• Don’t Overdo the Branding: Let the shoes speak for themselves. If your sneakers are already carrying a logo, dial it back elsewhere. Skip the flashy hoodies and graphic-heavy tees and keep things pared back.
• Pair with Elevated Basics: Well-cut denim, heavyweight tees, chore jackets, unstructured tailoring – these kinds of pieces will lift a budhet sneaker to look like it cost double. It’s all about contrast and considered styling.
• Keep the Rest Simple: Minimal sneakers look best when they’re the focal point. Don’t clutter your look with too many accessories or competing colours. Monochrome, neutral layers, or tonal outfits give cheap kicks a runway-worthy vibe.