8 Styles of Women’s Sneakers for Spring

The most requested women’s sneakers in Canada and where to buy them right now.

Sneakers are worn year-round, but there’s something about the spring season that gets us excited for a new pair, especially as the weather turns from too hot for boots to too cold for sandals.

When breaking down the type of sneakers to add to the collection this year, we considered a few things: looking at classic styles, exploring new trends, materials and construction, price and availability in Canada. For some models, we took inspiration from an influential designer sneaker and offered options at different price points. Others, like the Adidas Samba, are pretty hard to find right now, so we’ve found some alternatives.

Most of these options come from international brands (French, Japanese and, of course, American). For those who want a Canadian option, there are a few brands available, such as Vessi (best known for being waterproof), Matt and Nat (vegan and widely available), and Frank and Oak.

The sought-after (and sold out) Samba

Adidas Sambas are at the top of the sneaker wish list. Thanks to its popularity with young models and influencers (which has driven demand up), as well as a rare supply, finding a pair in a reputable store is a challenge. There are limited sizes of Sambarose on the Adidas Canada website and a few select shippers on Amazon (price fluctuations reflect high demand). You could try your luck on a sneaker retailer site. For the closest style, the Gazelles are available direct through Adidas Canada. (Pay attention to the men’s size when ordering.)

Color-block kicks

New Balance sneakers in blue.

New Balance sneakers

New Balance’s color-block trainers are a fresh take on retro style, blending the brand’s athletic roots with its signature normcore aesthetic. There are several color combinations and we love the 574 in blue with rosewater and the 327 in white with pink and beige accents. Both are available from New Balance.

Vegan sneakers

call it spring sneakers

For chunky sneakers with plenty of lift, these Venus sneakers from Canadian line Call It Spring are under $70 and, like all shoes from this brand, are vegan-friendly and certified by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. $65 at Call It Spring.

Sock sneakers

Balenciaga sneakers

Joe Fresh Sock Trainers

Basketball Alo Yoga

Balenciaga’s sock sneaker falls into the ‘love’ or ‘hate’ column – there’s no in-between when it comes to such a polarizing look. For those who want the designer look, now is the time to score a pair ($950 on SSENSE). For a similar shape and fit, Joe Fresh makes a black sock sneaker, as does Alo Yoga.

The top of the Nike high-top sneakers

Nike high top shoes

Nike is the best-selling sneaker brand in the world (and the most popular brand in Canada). High-top Blazers mix the classic swoosh with a sleek 70s design. These can be paired with jeans, joggers, pants or dresses for an urban-preppy look. $135 at SportChek.

The French sneaker to wear with everything

Basketball Veja

Sustainable French sneaker brand Veja is the go-to street-style shoe for running errands and going to school, as well as a popular choice in offices with a casual dress code. This V-10 style with neon orange and burgundy accents is both sleek and cool. Once hard to find in Canada, a healthy selection is now available at Canadian retailer Simons.

Asics light as a cloud

Sage green Asics trainers

Japanese sneaker brand Asics makes technical sneakers with a loaded logo (the signature line print on the side) and has a reputation for durability and comfort. This sage-green pair is as light as a cloud. On sale for $112 at Canadian online retailer SSENSE.

Ready for that jelly?

Stella McCartney sneakers

adidas Superstar

Jelly sneakers are the trend to watch, according to fashion predictors like Vogue magazine. But the style has yet to achieve mass popularity. There are pricey designer versions (like Stella McCartney’s) and Adidas is making a jelly version of its Superstar sneaker, but sizes are currently very limited. Available directly through Adidas Canada.

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