Athleisure is my go-to, but let’s be real—it can easily veer into “just rolled out of bed” territory if you’re not careful. The secret to making it look polished and intentional? The right sneakers.
A sleek, structured, or on-trend shoe instantly elevates your leggings-and-hoodie combo, making it look more like fashion and less like I gave up on life.
After trying countless pairs, I’ve found the 15 best sneakers that make athleisure look effortlessly cool and stylish—never lazy. These kicks add just the right edge, structure, or trendiness to make any sporty outfit feel intentional.
1. Adidas Samba

If you want to look effortlessly cool in athleisure, just slip on a pair of Adidas Sambas. Their slim, soccer-inspired silhouette keeps outfits looking sleek and intentional, never sloppy.
These sneakers give off a fashion-girl in Europe aesthetic—perfect with relaxed sweatpants, oversized blazers, or even a biker short set. Whether you’re running errands or grabbing brunch, they add a street-chic upgrade to any sporty outfit.
2. Golden Goose Superstar

The Golden Goose Superstar is the sneaker equivalent of expensive-but-effortless energy. The worn-in aesthetic adds a cool-girl vibe to even the laziest athleisure fits, making them perfect for nailing the “I woke up like this” look—in the best way possible.
3. Common Projects Original Achilles

If you want an athleisure sneaker that reads luxury, the Common Projects Original Achilles is the way to go. The buttery leather, clean lines, and understated branding make them the perfect chic-but-casual sneaker.
These instantly elevate leggings, joggers, or even a full sweatsuit, making them a must-have for looking effortlessly put-together.
4. New Balance 990v5

Nothing says elevated casual like a New Balance 990v5. This sneaker strikes the perfect balance between retro and refined, making it an instant upgrade to any laid-back look.
The structured shape and premium materials make it clear that this isn’t just a running shoe—it’s a fashion staple. Wear these with monochrome athleisure fits, and you’ll look like you meant to wear sneakers, not like you just threw them on.
5. Puma Speedcat

For an ultra-sleek take on athleisure, the Puma Speedcat is the way to go. Inspired by racing shoes, these have a low-profile, streamlined shape that makes baggy joggers and oversized hoodies look cool rather than careless.
They’re minimalist yet statement-making, making them perfect for a sporty, chic aesthetic. When you want an easy sneaker that looks intentional, these are it.
6. Veja V-10

If you want a sneaker that screams effortless Parisian style, the Veja V-10 is for you. The structured leather design makes athleisure look expensive, even when you’re just wearing sweats and a cropped tank.
They’re also a favorite among the fashion crowd, making them a perfect way to keep casual outfits feeling high-end.
7. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Hi

A platform sneaker is a cheat code for making casual outfits feel more put-together, and the Converse Chuck Taylor Lift Hi is the perfect example.
The added height and structure make leggings and sweatpants look cool instead of frumpy. They have that perfect balance of laid-back and fashion-forward, making them an easy win for athleisure lovers who want to stand out.
8. Salomon XA Pro 3D V9

Trail sneakers have officially made their way into high fashion, and the Salomon XA Pro 3D V9 is leading the charge. These give off high-tech, functional fashion vibes, turning even the most basic athleisure outfit into an editorial-worthy look.
Whether you’re pairing them with leggings and a cropped puffer or oversized sweatpants, they add a rugged, cool-girl energy that makes your outfit feel anything but lazy.
9. On Cloudvista 2

The On Cloudvista 2 is the ultimate elevated minimalist sneaker—lightweight, sleek, and ridiculously chic. Unlike bulky running shoes, these have a clean, structured look that makes even the simplest athleisure outfits feel luxe.
Their modern design adds just the right amount of sporty sophistication, making them a perfect go-to when you want to look polished and comfortable.
10. Nike Air Force 1 ’07

If you need a fail-proof sneaker to keep your athleisure fits from looking lazy, the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 is it. The structured sole and crisp leather give outfits a polished, street-style finish, instantly making even leggings and a hoodie look intentional.
They add a touch of edge to any look, and the platform version takes it up another notch.
11. Hoka Bondi 9

Yes, chunky sneakers are still in, and the Hoka Bondi 9 is proof that maximalist soles can make athleisure look effortless and intentional. The oversized design instantly adds a trendy, off-duty model vibe to any outfit, making even your most basic leggings look put-together.
These aren’t just stylish—they’re so cushioned that walking in them feels like stepping on clouds. Trust me, your feet (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
12. Reebok Club C 85

The Reebok Club C 85 is a subtle flex in sneaker form—it’s vintage, versatile, and always looks effortlessly cool. The low-top silhouette and soft leather add just the right amount of retro charm, keeping athleisure outfits looking thoughtfully styled rather than last-minute.
13. Avia Air Athletic Sneakers

Looking stylish in athleisure doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and the Avia Air Athletic Sneakers prove it. With their sleek, lightweight design and subtle branding, they give off a premium look without the premium price tag.
The clean silhouette makes them versatile, so they pair effortlessly with everything from joggers to structured leggings and a blazer.
14. Allbirds Wool Runners

Soft, sustainable, and ridiculously comfy, the Allbirds Wool Runners are perfect for an elevated athleisure look. Their sleek, no-fuss design makes outfits look intentional, and their neutral tones keep everything minimal and polished.
15. Nike Air Max Dn8

The Nike Air Max Dn8 is the ultimate mix of sporty and futuristic, making it perfect for keeping athleisure outfits looking fresh and elevated. Whether you’re pairing them with leggings and a cropped hoodie or a structured jogger set, these shoes add a polished, street-style edge.