Office-Ready Sneakers You’ll Never Want to Take Off: The Best Picks for 2025
New York, NY – August 30, 2025, As workplace dress codes continue to evolve, sneakers have become a staple in business-casual environments, blending comfort with professional polish. With employees spending long hours on their feet, the demand for stylish yet functional footwear has surged. Drawing on recent insights from fashion experts and industry trends, here’s a roundup of office-ready sneakers that combine sleek design, all-day comfort, and versatility, ensuring you won’t want to kick them off at the end of the workday.
Top Picks for Office-Ready Sneakers
- Cole Haan GrandPrø Tennis Sneaker (Women’s) & Grand Crosscourt Premier (Men’s)
Cole Haan’s dress sneakers are a standout for their polished aesthetic and comfort-driven design. The women’s GrandPrø Tennis Sneaker, praised by Fox News, features clean leather construction and a low-profile silhouette, making it ideal for pairing with tailored trousers or midi skirts. The men’s Grand Crosscourt Premier, highlighted by GQ, blends athletic cushioning with a professional look, featuring a lightweight EVA midsole and OrthoLite footbed for all-day support. Testers at SELF awarded the GrandPro Topspin Triple Strap a Sneaker Award for its sleek, modern style, with one saying, “They look great and don’t distract me on busy days.” Priced at $160 for women and $190 for men, these are top choices for corporate settings. - Veja Esplar & V-90
Veja’s minimalist sneakers, favored by Women’s Health and Harper’s Bazaar, are celebrated for their sustainability and office-appropriate design. The Esplar, with its clean leather upper and simple silhouette, pairs effortlessly with chinos or dresses, while the V-90 offers a retro-modern flair with eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester and organic cotton. A customer review noted, “They fit great for wider feet with no rubbing,” and testers appreciated their immediate comfort. Priced around $150-$180, Veja’s sneakers are a mindful investment for creative or relaxed offices. - Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker
For budget-conscious professionals, Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker, priced at $70, earned SELF’s “Best Budget Pick” for its chunky yet professional design. Featuring a synthetic leather or canvas upper and foam cushioning, it’s a favorite for long commutes and office days. A SELF tester raved, “They’re the only pair I want to wear to work or the park,” citing their comfort and versatility. The Catch Thrills model, noted by Fox News, offers a classic lace-up style that complements casual trousers. - Kizik Athens 2 & Vegas
Kizik’s slip-on sneakers, like the Athens 2 and Vegas, are ideal for professionals on the move. The Athens 2, with its understated full-grain leather upper, transitions seamlessly from commute to office, while the Vegas adds a polished touch for business-casual settings. Condé Nast Traveler praised the Milan model’s cushioned foam insoles for travel and work, with tester Paris Wilson noting, “I haven’t complained once about my feet.” Priced at $139-$159, these hands-free options are perfect for busy schedules. - Adidas Samba
The Adidas Samba, a reimagined cult classic, is a versatile pick for less formal offices. Cosmopolitan and Women’s Health highlighted its sleek stitching and extended tongue, which elevate its aesthetic for workwear. A SELF tester said, “The small pop of green goes with everything, and they’re easy to clean.” Priced at $100-$120, the Samba’s dark grey shell or black leather options are durable and weather-resistant, making them a smart choice for inclement conditions.
Styling Tips for Office Sneakers
- Keep It Clean and Minimal: Opt for neutral colors like white, black, navy, or grey in leather or suede for a professional look. Avoid bold patterns or overly athletic designs, as advised by Hockerty.
- Pair with Structured Pieces: Balance casual sneakers with tailored items like blazers, slim-fit chinos, or midi dresses. Who What Wear suggests incorporating at least one structured element to maintain a polished appearance.
- Maintenance Matters: Use Magic Erasers for white soles or invest in washable sneakers like Rothy’s or Allbirds for easy upkeep, per Corporette. Regular cleaning ensures sneakers remain office-appropriate.
- Know Your Office Vibe: In formal settings, stick to leather slip-ons or loafer-like silhouettes. For creative industries, retro-inspired sneakers like Nike’s Cortez or Chloé’s suede designs add flair, as noted by Harper’s Bazaar.
Why Sneakers Work in the Office
The shift toward casual office attire, accelerated by post-pandemic hybrid work models, has made sneakers a go-to choice. Asphaltgold notes that clean, minimalist sneakers are now accepted in most industries, offering comfort without sacrificing professionalism. With brands like Cole Haan and Veja leading the charge, these sneakers provide durability, support, and style, making them investments you’ll wear beyond the 9-to-5.
As offices continue to embrace flexibility, these sneakers ensure you stay comfortable and chic, whether commuting, attending meetings, or heading to happy hour. Check retailers like Zappos, Nordstrom, or direct brand sites for the latest colorways and sizes to elevate your work wardrobe.
Sources: Fox News, SELF, GQ, Corporette, Cosmopolitan, Asphaltgold, Women’s Health, Condé Nast Traveler, Harper’s Bazaar, Hockerty