We’ve come a long way since the dad sneaker craze of 2020. In fact, for 2025 it appears we’ve swung hard in the opposite direction, eschewing those chunky soles and sturdy silhouettes for something much sleeker and more minimalist. I’m talking about low-profile sneakers, those retro-inspired kicks that fit close to the foot and have super-thin outsoles like the running shoes of the ‘70s and ‘80s. But this new must-have shoe is more than just a trend—it’s an embrace of super-classic sneaker silhouettes like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 and Adidas Tokyo. These designs aren’t the focal point of your outfit, but a supremely chic supporting accessory that works well with everything from tailored trousers to barrel-leg jeans to skirts and dresses of all lengths. So to help you find the low-profile sneakers of your dreams, I pulled together a list of ten highly-rated and reviewed styles to add to your wardrobe ASAP.
The 10 Best Low-Profile Sneakers, Starting at $75
Low-key obsessed
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The Best Low-Profile Sneakers for Women at a Glance
How I Chose the Best Low-Profile Sneakers for Women
To compile this list I started by polling the PureWow editorial team to see which low-profile sneakers my fellow editors have worn and loved. I also asked friends and family to get their recommendations and backed up all those picks by reading countless reviews across multiple retailers when possible. Every sneaker on this list comes from a brand that’s earned the PureWow stamp of approval in years past, and each pair is made of materials that are as durable as they are comfortable. The end result? A collection of ten pairs of low-profile sneakers to suit every style, budget and need.
1. Onitsuka Tiger Corsair Sneakers
Onitsuka Tiger
Senior Editor Dana Dickey and I both have our eyes on a pair of retro-inspired Onitsuka Tiger kicks for spring. For her, it’s the Corsair design that’s top of the list. It features the brand’s signature quad of curved lines on the side and has a super-slim sole that, according to reviewers, is surprisingly supportive. “They are the Japanese cult sneaker beloved by both streetwear enthusiasts and Quentin Tarantino (Uma Thurman wears them in Kill Bill),” explains Dickey. “My 18-year-old son recently got a pair secondhand and loves them, and in one of the neutral colorways, I know they will be great travel shoes.” Just be sure to double check the size chart before you order; some colors are listed in unisex, men’s or European sizing.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 4 to 12
- Materials: leather upper, rubber sole
SeaVees
“Everyone knows how much I love SeaVees sneakers by now,” admits Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera, “but these low-profile Monterey ones are a totally classic pair that I can wear with anything from jeans to linen pants, shorts and dresses.” The simple canvas design reads much more modern than the retro Onitsuka Tigers above, too. LaBarbera and others rave about the incredibly comfortable and supportive insole, even for days full of walking, standing or exploring. The canvas may not be the easiest to keep looking fresh, but a wipe down with warm soapy water and a light scrub with a towel should do the trick.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Materials: recycled canvas upper, natural rubber sole
3. Rothy’s The Lace Up Sneakers
Rothy’s
SEO Editor Marissa Wu has been wearing the same pair of Rothy’s sneakers for five years now, and they’re still going strong. “I love that they’re machine washable and made from recycled plastic,” she tells me. “They have a very sturdy insole, too. They’ve held up pretty well, and I find they’re polished but casual.” Another classic lace-up design, this pair has a subtle two-tone effect and a breathable mesh upper that’s fabulous for keeping your feet feeling cool and comfortable, even on the hottest summer days. And they are, indeed, machine washable! Just be sure to remove the insoles first to ensure the deepest clean, and leave both out to air day.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 13
- Materials: mesh fabric upper, gum sole
Converse
The vintage vibe of these newly redesigned Run Star Trainers is exactly what’s landed them so high on my summer wishlist. They come in a variety of colors (sky blue, pale pink, sea foam green), but it’s the classic white with black detailing that has the most enduring appeal, IMO. And with a three-layered memory foam sockliner, you can bet they’re supremely comfortable for all-day wear. Just know, some reviewers say these shoes run small, so if you’re between sizes or have wider feet, you may want to go up a half size from your usual.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 4.5 to 14.5
- Materials: nylon upper, rubber sole
Dolce Vita
The minimalist look of these Dolce Vita kicks first grabbed my attention, but it was the super-supple suede upper that made me truly fall in love. These slim-fitting sneakers require no breaking in, but do seem to run a half-size small, so you may want to consider sizing up when ordering. As of publish, they come in four luscious hues all ideal for spring, including Robin’s egg blue, off-white, lavender and everyone’s favorite color trend, butter yellow.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 13
- Materials: suede and leather upper, rubber sole
Adidas
Stand out from the sea of trendy Adidas Sambas (also a great low-profile sneaker option) with this Tokyo style instead. Inspired by ‘70s running shoes, this sleek silhouette has a super-thin sole that still offers plenty of traction and support (although some reviewers suggest swapping these for a thicker sole if you plan to be walking all day). And the upper comes in a range of cool color combos that combine leather and suede details with aplomb. Per one 5-star reviewer, “Pairs with everything! And so comfortable. Took on a trip and looked great with my jeans and super cute with my skirts and dresses too because of the slim design.”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Materials: nylon upper, rubber sole
Loewe
If you’re willing to splurge, this Loewe design is a must-have for both comfort and style. The upper is made of a lightweight padded leather/suede combo with a rubber sole that wraps up the front of the toe and up the back of the heel. And while the looping L on the side is definitely recognizable as Loewe branding, it also stays true to the vintage inspiration for these kicks. Reviewers say these shoes fit true to size and that the insole is super cushy, too.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: IT 35 t 41
- Materials: leather and suede upper, rubber sole
8. Alohas TB.490 Club Sneakers
Alohas
The burgundy hype won’t be dying down any time soon, even as the temperature climbs ever higher this summer, so I highly suggest you add these beauties to your shopping cart now, before they sell out. Of course, they also come in a rand of other colors, including off-white with a black sole and subtle beige detailing, but it’s the combo of raspberry suede and burgundy leather that really stole my heart. The exaggerated tongue that flips over the front is just enough of a special touch to really stand out from the crowd, but doesn’t add so much volume, maintaining that low-profile silhouette. Just be sure to check the sizing chart before you order, as Alohas lists European sizes, rather than US.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: EU 35 to 46
- Materials: leather and suede upper, rubber sole
Nike
Nike has a whole range of fun low-profile sneakers to choose from, but I’m partial to the super-retro vibes of the LD-1000. They were actually first released in 1977 and while the silhouette has barely been altered, the materials used as the latest and greatest for comfort and durability. The look almost like an old-school soccer cleat, but have a cushy padded textile upper that’s wonderfully breathable and requires no break-in period. The do come in more neutral color combinations, like black-and-white or pale blue with muted brown, but it’s the super-bright variations, like the yellow pictured above, that really feel most likely to garner you all the compliments.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 12
- Materials: leather and textile upper, rubber sole
Gola
Combine multiple trends—low-profile sneakers! Silver shoes! Retro vibes!—into one hot shoe. Gola makes fabulous low-profile designs that are classic, timeless and have earned the stamp of approval from multiple PureWow editors over the years. “There’s no break-in period, they’re so easy to style and they’re honestly so comfortable, even if you’re on your feet all day,” says Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay. And I wholeheartedly agree. I’ve owned a green-and-white pair for going on four years now and they’re absolutely a got-to shoe for days when I want to prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Materials: leather upper, rubber gum sole
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Low-Profile Sneakers?
Low-profile sneakers are those that fit very close to the foot with a sleek silhouette and thin sole. They’re minimalist designs that often evoke a vintage vibe, though there are plenty of more modern versions to shop as well. In general, these are sneakers that are unfussy, casual and relatively unadorned.
What Low-Profile Sneakers Are Best For Walking?
The truth is that low-profile sneakers may not be the most comfortable shoes for a day full of walking and exploring. While many folks rave about the supportive and comfy insoles of the pairs on this list, if you have more severe podiatry issues you’ll likely be more better served by something with a thicker sole that’s specifically designed for walking.
Are Low-Profile Sneakers and Low-Top Sneakers the Same Thing?
Not exactly. The designation of “low-top” refers only to where the cuff of the shoe ends, specifically at or below the ankle bone. But low-top sneakers can also have a super-chunky sole or other exaggerated detailing that make them different from low-profile sneakers. The thing that really defines a low-profile sneaker is a sleek silhouette that fits very close to the foot and thin sole; it doesn’t much matter whether it’s a low-top or a high-top.
