5 Best Trainers for Men 2022 | UK Fashion Designer Reviewed

1. High Tops Look Cool and Casual, Low Tops Are More Versatile
2. Leather Is Durable and Waterproof, Canvas Is Low Maintenance and Ages Well
3. Opt for Rubber Soles for Better Grip, or Synthetic Soles for More Flexibility

The most common style of trainers you're likely to come across is the low top. Just in case you’ve been living under a rock, these trainers cover the foot, cutting off around or below the wearer’s ankles. 

Low tops allow for better mobility, which is its primary selling point. They are also considerably lighter on your feet. These shoes enable you to run faster and jump higher with less effort. These are by far the most versatile of all the different styles, as they can be worn with pretty much everything. From summer shorts, to formal attire, they're going to look great providing you’ve got the right pair. 

Moving on from the low to the high top, these iconic shoes have humble beginnings. Originally designed to be worn as part of a sports kit, it was believed that having an upper part which covered the ankle would give more protection to those playing games such as basketball. 

In the future, if your activities or profession may demand a little extra ankle support, high top shoes may be the best choice. Whereas a low top shoe may be preferred if freedom of movement is essential.

As with most sportswear, they’ve gradually become adopted into streetwear trends. For this reason, high tops are often better suited to more casual attire. Although, recently designer brands have been producing them, so you might be able to snag some more classy, albeit slightly extravagant options to wear with your suit. 

As you’ve probably guessed, the slip-on trainer is one that does just that. This style generally uses a flexible upper and an elasticated ankle which allows the wearer to easily slide them on and off. Which means there will be no unpleasant laces ruining the clean silhouette of the shoe. 

These trainers come in a wide variety of designs and materials, whether you're after sophisticated leather uppers for more smart-casual events, or canvas espadrilles for relaxing summer days at the beach. Just make sure to match them to your outfit, otherwise they can quickly look out of place.

Active trainers are suitable for everyday wear because their upper structures, like their rubber outsole, are frequently designed to give high levels of durability and breathability. These characteristics are ideal for a variety of environments and for prolonging a shoe's lifespan in the gym and on an everyday basis. 

If you’re looking for trainers for your workout, a kick about at the park, or you simply like the active look, then finding some versatile running trainers could well be on the top of your list.

Whether or not you're the active type, you may want to consider this style if you're constantly on your feet for work. These trainers will be a practical and extremely comfortable choice, with cushioned soles for those long hours spent standing up. 

Of course, you’ll want them to look good too! Luckily, sportswear chic is back on trend, and brands have been producing a wide variety of both practical and stylish sports trainers over the last couple of years.

Leather is one of the most common materials used in footwear. It has the advantage of being naturally waterproof, while bringing an added touch of class helping you achieve a smarter look. If looked after properly, this material can last ages, so you won’t be forking out for a new pair every year. 

Leather shoes have a substantially longer lifespan than other types of shoes. One reason people believe leather shoes are superior is because of their durability. They endure a long time if proper care is taken and re-soled. 

However, the downside to leather is that if you want to keep it in good condition, they’re going to need some care. Leather trainers can also require breaking in time if you’re not used to wearing such a robust shoe. 

If your trainers aren't made from leather, the next most common type of textile used is cotton canvas. This is often used to create a variety of different sneakers, high tops and plimsoles. The big plus is that these trainers are low cost and low maintenance, so you won't have to worry about the upkeep. 

Unfortunately, canvas trainers aren’t very warm or weatherproof, so you may be left with some wet socks if the weather turns. They’re also not very durable, unlike leather trainers.

This fabric is generally reserved for active and sports-style trainers. The synthetic material can be made from nylon, polyester or even faux leathers (think PVC), all of which are breathable and lightweight, making them ideal for fitness and longer periods of wear. 

The only issue is that these materials tend to be significantly weaker than leather or canvas, and can wear down rather quickly. So you might be required to repurchase a pair sooner than you’d want to. 

Finally, you’ll want to consider the sole. The majority of the time trainers will use a rubber tread. This is because rubber soles are long-lasting, slip-resistant, and most importantly for those of us living in the UK, it’s waterproof. 

Also, this allows you to operate safely in rainy, muddy and slippery conditions without needing to pack a change of socks. However, rubber soles have a longer lifespan as well as better grip than synthetic soles.

Some active trainers will possibly use a synthetic sole as they are more lightweight, making them a solid choice for running and working out. The only problem is that they aren’t as water-resistant or slip-proof. So, on a wet day you could end up with damp socks, or on your bum, neither outcome being optimal. 

For those after a quick look, here is our Top 2:

1. Converse - Chuck Taylor All Star Hi for £37.99
2. Vans - Slip-On Checkerboard for £39.50    

This article's chosen EC site price listings are reflective of its publishing date.

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.

Written and researched by Lewis Clark

Our ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.