Do you still wear business casual attire to the office—tucked-in shirt, dress pants, with leather shoes? Without a doubt, traditional business attire gives off a smarty vibe, but some see it as something a bit too formal for daily wear.
Although many workplaces advocate for their workers to dress formally, things are changing a bit regarding office dress codes. Offices now promote a more casual sense of style regarding dressing. For example, in today’s workplace, you can wear business casual sneakers instead of classic leather shoes.
To help you keep up with the trend, let’s explore some of the best business casual sneakers you can buy to level up your wardrobe and the characteristics that make them stand out.
What Types of Sneakers Are Considered Business Casual?
Not all sneakers can pass as business casual. Here are some styles to consider:
Slip-Ons
Slip-on shoes are the love child of traditional sneakers and loafers, combining style and comfort. They are a bit more formal than lace-up shoes, though.
So, if you want to wear them in a traditional work environment, opt for one with a leather upper in a neutral color. Choose suede instead of leather in a more non-neutral color for a more casual look.
Lace-Up Sneakers
Lace-up sneakers look more relaxed compared to slip-ons. As such, they can be an excellent fit for the office, especially neutral-colored ones. Fortunately, there are endless options available, allowing you to explore your style while staying within the office’s dress codes.
There are two types of lace-up sneakers:
Low-Top Sneakers
Whether you wear jeans, a T-shirt, and a blazer to work, low-top sneakers can complete the look. That said, make sure you stay within the boundaries of work attire by choosing neutral colors, such as black, brown, and gray.
High-Top Sneakers
Although high-top sneakers are more fashionable than low-tops, you can wear them in the work environment. In fact, they will look right at home if you work in a creative field.
Top 10 Business Casual Sneakers in 2022: A Quick Overview
| Business Casual Sneakers | Best Feature | Rating | Price | Where To Buy |
| Vans Classic Slip-on, Core Classics | Comfy slip-on style | ★★★★★ | $ | Amazon |
| Converse Jack Purcell Classic Low Top | Classic leather look | ★★★★ | $ | End Clothing |
| Merrell Freewheel Lace | Soft suede upper | ★★★★ | $$ | Backcountry |
| Clae Bradley | Padded footbed for comfort | ★★★★ | $$ | Nordstrom |
| Cole Haan GrandPro | Cushioned inner sole | ★★★★ | $$ | Nordstrom |
| SeaVees Legend Clipper Class | Leather finish | ★★★★ | $$ | Backcountry |
| Superga 2750 COTU | Slip-on style | ★★★★ | $$ | Amazon |
| Royale from the Great | Antibacterial properties | ★★★★ | $$ | Greats |
| New Balance 990v5 Core | Comfortable thick inner padding | ★★★★ | $$ | New Balance |
| Asics Onitsuka Tiger | Sleek finish for formal and casual use | ★★★★ | $$ | Onitsuka Tiger |
Best Business Casual Sneakers Reviews
1. Vans Classic Slip-On, Core Classics (Perf Leather)
We all know about the classic Vans shoes that brought sneakers to fame, but can you wear them to the office? Not really. Fortunately, traditional and casual meet in the middle ground in these leather Vans slip-ons.
You will have the comfort and support of its vulcanized rubber sole, padded collar, and stretchy midfoot. Then, there’s the leather upper, which features perforations to allow your feet to breathe.
Pros:
- Easy to put on and off slip-on shoes
- Comfortable enough to wear all day
- Leather upper gives a formal look
Con:
- Not resistant to water
2. Converse Jack Purcell LTT Ox Leather
Since its launch in the mid-1930s, this style of sneakers has maintained popularity across continents. However, if the cotton canvas upper of the popular Chuck Taylor looks too casual for you, check out the Converse Jack Purcell instead.
Even at first glance, you’ll see these aren’t your ordinary Converse sneakers. With these on, you can get a mix of classy and casual styles in your business footwear collection.
The brown leather upper complements any classic look, while the sole gives it a casual touch. Basically, you will get the best of both worlds when you wear these to work every day.
Pros:
- Comfortable for everyday wear
- Classy leather style
- Suitable for formal and casual wear
Con:
- The upper is prone to cracking
3. Merrell Freewheel Lace
If you’re after comfort and good performance, perhaps you’ll like the Merrell Freewheel Lace sneakers. Not only are they an excellent choice for everyday office wear, but they also help solve smelly feet.
The M-Select Fresh helps curb odor, while the pig suede leather upper allows the feet to breathe. As for comfort, you have the EVA footbed to thank for that, ensuring you can stand on your feet for hours with no problems.
Pros:
- Breathable material used
- Suitable for casual and formal wear
- Thick inner padding
Con:
- Not water-resistant
4. Clae Bradley Sneakers
The Clae Bradley Sneakers is an advanced version of the classic and casual sneaker. Its EVA insole, articulated cupsole, and lace-up upper ensure you get long-lasting comfort throughout the day. Plus, the neoprene heel adds to its elegance.
The brand has been around since the 2000s, so you can be sure its shoes can withstand wear and tear. Aside from durability, you’ll love that it perfectly combines the best features of formal and business casual shoes.
Pros:
- Padded footbed
- Suitable for classic and casual wear
- Comfortable to wear for long hours
Con:
- Prone to cracking
5. Cole Haan GrandPro
When it comes to business casual shoes, you can’t go wrong with Cole Haan’s GrandPro. These shoes bring new cushioning technology into the scene with its Grand.OS energy-foam footbed. This anatomically engineered material makes for a comfortable shoe you can wear all day.
These shoes are supportive but lightweight, making you feel like you’re walking on clouds. Aside from that, its beautiful leather upper gives it a timeless elegance that is easy to pair with everyday work clothes.
Pros:
- Cushioned inner sole
- Sleek design
- Comfortable to wear
Con:
- Limited color options
6. SeaVees Legend Clipper Class
With its smooth leather upper, canvas lining, and waxed cotton laces, the SeaVees Legend Clipper Class is the perfect footwear for the office. The rubber sole and perforated footbed combo make it possible to wear these shoes for long hours without feeling foot fatigue.
Pros:
- Leather upper for a classy look
- Rubber sole for easy footing
- Padded inner sole
Con:
- Leather is prone to cracking
7. Superga 2750 COTU
The Superga 2750 COTU has been a favorite since its first release. From casual days out in the city to everyday shoes to the office, you’ll see it everywhere. The reason? It’s very easy to dress up when needed.
The classic sneaker’s solid upper, cushioned footbed, and rubber outsole make it a must-have in everyone’s wardrobe. Plus, it comes in several color options to match your style.
Pros:
- Slip-on style
- True to size
- Cushioned inner padding
Con:
- Not water-resistant
8. The Royale Nero
The Royale Nero is a jack of all trades. You can wear it to meetings, errand runs, or even to nights out. Made of full-grain breathable leather, it is handcrafted by skilled shoemakers to ensure the highest quality.
The best thing about it is its premium cushioned footbed, which has antimicrobial properties to keep odor-causing microbes at bay. You’ll also like that the outsoles are made of natural rubber, and the laces are waxed cotton.
Pros:
- Classic leather upper
- Suitable for casual and formal wear
- With antimicrobial properties
Con:
- The upper is prone to cracking
9. New Balance 990v5 Core
Looking at the image above, you might think these sneakers are bordering on dad shoes territory. While they do give off that vibe, the New Balance 990v5 Core is unmatched when it comes to comfort.
Besides, the fact that the shoes slope is enough to break the stereotype of chunky dad shoes.
What makes them a good investment is that you can choose the shoe width depending on the shape of your feet. As a result, you will have a secure and supportive fit without compromising comfort level.
Pros:
- Cushioned insoles
- Sleek finish
- Comfortable to wear for long hours
Con:
- Not suitable for formal occasions
10. Asics Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81
Like us, you probably think that the multi-colored Onitsuka sneakers are too flashy for office wear. Fortunately, we found one that’s as comfortable to wear and still low-key enough for the office in the Ultimate 81.
The best thing about the Asics Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81 is that you can wear it no matter the occasion. With these shoes on, you can go from working to partying without hassle.
Pros:
- Sleek upper
- Comfortable for any occasion
- Suitable for formal and casual use
Con:
- Not water-resistant
Are Sneakers the New Casual Shoes?
There’s no denying that sneakers have increased demand in the world of business casual office footwear. That said, they haven’t yet replaced the class business footwear, such as dress shoes, loafers, or boots. However, they are becoming trendier by the minute to showcase one’s personality and style.
When wearing business casual sneakers in the workplace, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. The most important of all is to consider your work environment.
If you work in a more relaxed atmosphere, you can easily incorporate dress sneakers into your office wardrobe. On the other hand, if your workplace is more like a traditional office, it’s best to go for the conventional and classic styles.
Also, don’t forget to ensure your sneaker’s comfort level. Not being able to work and walk properly due to uncomfortable shoes is the last thing anyone would want.
Buyer’s Guide
While we all have our unique tastes in sneakers, the factors to consider when buying a pair remain the same. To help you decide, make sure you pay attention to these things:
Fit
The first rule of buying any kind of shoes is to make sure they fit properly. Blisters, calluses, and other foot problems can result from wearing shoes that are too small. Also, what fits now may not fit in a few months, especially during winter when you have to wear thicker socks.
In that case, take the time to plan ahead for when you’ll require these shoes for specific activities.
You can find sneaker sizing guides specific to brands online if you are unsure of your size. Take a look at this Converse Size Chart, for instance. You may also want to consider the differences between European and American sizing.
Feel
Are the shoes cushioned or firm? Do you find the shoe’s arch to be accommodating or intrusive? This is where knowing your foot’s pronation comes in. With this knowledge, you’ll know exactly what type of insole to choose for your feet.
Style and Quality
When it comes to shoes, there are advantages and disadvantages to using various materials. Canvas shoes, for instance, allow for better air circulation. That said, neither form nor function should ever take a back seat to aesthetics.
Examine the shoes’ overall quality before buying. Also, keep in mind the old adage, “you get what you pay for,” rings true where footwear is concerned.
Your Budget
When shoe shopping, it’s also crucial to keep your budget in mind. What are you willing to pay for a new pair of shoes? If you know how much you can spend, you can eliminate unnecessary options and avoid going overboard.
Again, it’s also important to note that, as with most things, you get what you pay more. More often than not, the bigger the price tag, the better the quality of the shoe.
Business Casual Sneakers FAQs
1. Can I wear sneakers at my workplace?
Yes, business casual shoes are now accepted in most workplaces. However, some companies haven’t changed with the times yet. They can be too casual for specific workplaces, such as law firms, for example.
In that case, there is not one answer to this question; it depends on the workplace and the culture of your office environment. Some have strict dress codes, allowing specific types of clothing while banning others.
2. Are white sneakers business casual?
Yes, not just white, but black, blue, brown, grey, and other neutral colors. These are considered the most professional colors among the other colors. Wearing white sneakers won’t be too simple but won’t be informal, either.
3. Are black shoes appropriate for business casual wear?
Yes, it’s the most common and professional-looking color to wear, not only in your sneakers or shoes but also in your clothing. You can’t go wrong with black. At the same time, the color black can be a bit too basic. You can also choose other options to go for a more casual look.
4. Can I wear Jordans to the office?
Jordans are not usually considered office appropriate. There are many other sneaker options you can choose from that give off a clean, polished, and more classy look.
So, Are Business Casual Sneakers Office-Appropriate?
To sum it all up, it is apparent that sneakers have gained immense popularity as a type of business casual footwear. The best part about wearing them for work is that they are comfortable and visually appealing at the same time.
From this list, we believe the best choice is the Core Classics Slip-Ons from Vans. More than others, they have the perfect balance of comfort and style without the ridiculously high price tag.
