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Best black sneakers for men 2

18 Best Black Sneakers for Men


We’ve put together a list of the best black sneakers for every man’s rotation, including everything from the best black leather sneakers to sought-after rarities that we’d love to have our hands-on. Let’s check it out below.

Best black sneakers new balance 550
Image: StockX

1. New Balance 550

While the Aime Leon Dore x New Balance 550 kick-started the on-slaught of these sneakers general release colourways such as the Triple Black seen here are far easier to come by (and cheaper). This includes the new triple black colourway seen here features a perforated leather upper set atop a rubber boot-style footbed. New Balance might’ve had the biggest year out of everyone in 2020, and for 2022 and beyond they’re turning things up again.

Style: BB550BBB
Colorway: BLACK/BLACK/BLACK
RetailPrice: $110
ReleaseDate: 03/01/2022

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Hype DC)Buy it here (The Iconic)

Salomon slab xt 6 adv
Image: Salomon

2. Salomon S/Lab XT-6 ADV

Salomon has made waves in the last few years and the XT-6 is one of the brand’s highest spec offerings. The XT-6 features the brand signature speed lacing system and EVA foam midsoles for comfort. Breathable mesh uppers and Rearfoot Descent Control technology mean you’re ready for everything the trail or the city has to offer. Salomons are a great cross-genre sneaker, while their intended purpose is the trail, they’re just as suited to the pathways at fashion week.

Sole: Rubber 100%
Lining:
Polyamide 100%
Outer:
Polyester 100%, Rubber 100%
Price: From $300 AUD

Buy it here (Salomon)Buy it here (StockX)

Nike air force 1 low stussy 1
Image: StockX

3. Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘Stussy’

It wouldn’t be a black sneakers list without that Nike black air force 1 energy, would it? While these are usually the preferred pair of sneakers for those allegedly partaking in illicit activities, the Stussy collaboration turns that idea on its head with a clean woven aesthetics made to be worn with washed jeans or cargo pants and a white t-shirt. Is this the best black AF1 of all time? We think so.

Check out the regular black Air Force 1 here for a cheaper alternative.

Style: CZ9084-001
Colorway: BLACK/BLACK
RetailPrice: $130
ReleaseDate: 12/11/2020

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Goat)Buy it here (Farfetch)

Common projects original achilles low
Image: Tres Bien

4. Common Projects Original Achilles Low

If you’re looking for the best black leather sneakers for men you just found them. The Common Projects Achilles Low stuck out amongst the Jordans of the time and brought levels of minimalism to the footwear market. This shoe is for the man who only wants to impress those who ‘know’, and the shoe stands out only by the signature gold style code on the heel. CPs can be dressed up as much as they can be dressed down, catering to the individual’s own sense of style. The Original Achilles Low is by far the most popular and superior in its genre, but we’ve linked an alternative below for your consideration.

Check out this Common Projects alternative for a cheaper option of equal quality.

Made in: Italy 
Sole: Rubber 100%
Lining
: Leather 100%
Outer
: Leather 100%
Price: from $400 AUD

Buy it here (MR PORTER)Buy it here (End Clothing)Buy it here (Incu)

Nike x sacai ldwaffle black nylon
Image: Farfetch

5. Nike x Sacai LDWaffle ‘Black Nylon’

Many believe the LDWaffle was the sneaker of the year in 2019, so it’s only right the black colourway makes the shortlist for best black sneakers. Sacai takes its fashion design language to this Nike silhouette in the only way it knows how. A double-stacked swoosh logo sits front and centre on the side panel, and a white heel chin extends out the back of the midsole to complete the Sacai look.

Style: BV0073-002
Colorway: BLACK/BLACK
RetailPrice: $160
ReleaseDate: 03/10/2020

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Goat)Buy it here (Farfetch)

New balance made in us 990v5
Image: New Balance

6. New Balance 990v5

If we asked you to picture a ‘sneaker’ in your mind the 990v5 would probably come to mind. These all-black sneakers have been worn by some of the most stylish people in fashion, just ask Timothée Chalamet. New Balance has made a major resurgence as of late, and the 990v5 is right there pushing the envelope forward by looking back. The retro styling is reminiscent of something you might find in an episode of ‘Friends’ but the silhouette has aged like fine wine. Perfect for the best 90’s inspired outfit, you can wear these all day long with their outrageous levels of comfort. Pair them with a pair of trousers or grey trackies and you’ve got the comfortable fit of your dreams.

Made in: United States
Sole: 
Rubber 100%
Lining: 
Fabric 100%
Outer: 
Suede 100%, Fabric 100%
Price: $280

Buy it here (New Balance)Buy it here (StockX)

Jordan air jordan 4 retro black cat 1
Image: GOAT

7. Jordan Air Jordan 4 Retro Black Cat

Re-releasing in early 2020, the Jordan 4 Black Cat hardly flew off shelves. It wasn’t until it was found on the feet of many stylish celebrities that it began to surge in price. The sneaker features a black nubuck upper with matching details around the eyelets and laces. Black hardware and netting combine with the black outsole to finish off the black on black look. This sneaker is the perfect candidate for daily wear, it begins to look better with age.

Check out our list of the best Jordans of All Time and see where the Jordan 4 ranks amongst the best.

Sole: Rubber 100%
Lining:
Polyester 100%
Outer:
Suede 100%, Nylon 100%
Price: from $1100 AUD

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Goat)

Monochrome low midnight ultra matte
Image: Monochrome the Label

8. MONOCHROME` Low Midnight Ultra Matte

MONOCHROME` is a Sydney based sneaker brand with a range of premium sneakers made in the heart of Italy. These low-top black sneakers feature a rubber-coated Italian calf leather with an Ultra Matte finish. The first of its kind, this unique finish comprises the entire upper of this lace-up sneaker. Not only is this one of the most unique sneakers on the list, but it’s also fully water repellant and features a lightweight EVA outsole.

Sole: Rubber 100%
Lining:
Leather 100%
Outer:
Leather 100%
Price: $435 AUD

Buy it here (Monochrome)Buy it here (Man of Many)

Air force 1 g dragon peaceminusone para noise
Image: Farfetch

9. Air Force 1 G-Dragon Peaceminusone Para-Noise

G Dragon works his magic on this classic Nike silhouette, hiding his design under the black paint. While some people want to put their shoes on a pedestal and never wear them, G Dragon gives us a reason to beat our sneakers up a bit with these Air Force 1’s. Under the black paint hides a G Dragon mural that represents the designer’s faith in creation. To reveal the mural beneath all you have to do is wear them. These are the perfect black sneakers for the man with an artistic touch.

Style: AQ3692-001
Colorway: BLACK/WHITE
RetailPrice: $200
ReleaseDate: 11/23/2019

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Farfetch)

Saint laurent andy
Image: Farfetch

10. Saint Laurent Andy

A super sleek number from Saint Laurent, these are a favourite of stylish celebrities like Jonah Hill. You can pair these black sneakers with anything thanks to the minimal design and subtle use of branding. The wax laces and stitching is finished off with gold foil branding for a luxe feel. Wear these with a set of straight-leg trousers and be on your way.

Check out this Saint Laurent Andy alternative for a cheaper option of equal quality.

Made in: Italy
Sole: Rubber 100%
Lining:
Leather 100%
Outer:
Leather 100%
Price: from $605

Buy it here (Saint Laurent)Buy it here (End Clothing)Buy it here (Farfetch)

Hoka one one clifton 8
Image: The Athlete’s Foot

11. HOKA One One Clifton 8

You might think you know what a comfy shoe feels like, but trust us, if you haven’t worn Hoka’s you don’t know anything yet. These are the comfiest road shoes on the market, and the best part is, that they come in triple black. The full EVA midsole is game-changing and the mesh upper provides breathability for long-distance occasions. Whether by design or by association, the Hoka has made a crossover into the fashion world. Many stylish celebs have been photographed wearing Hokas under their Marni trousers, we see no reason why you couldn’t do the same.

Sole: Rubber 100%
Lining:
Fabric 100%
Outer:
Rubber 100%, Fabric 100%
Price: from $240 AUD

Buy it here (The Athlete’s Foot)Buy it here (Sportitude)

Nike x undercover daybreak
Image: Farfetch

12. Nike x Undercover Daybreak

Jun Takahashi takes his eye for chaotic fashion to a bespoke pair of Nike Daybreaks. This black sneaker combines the classic look of the Daybreak with a design that pays homage to Undercover with an extended heel aspect. These are the perfect sneaker for a tech-wear look that incorporates cargo pants and a lot of black.

Style: BV4594-001
Colorway: BLACK/WHITE
RetailPrice: $160
ReleaseDate: 06/07/2019

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Goat)Buy it here (Farfetch)

Von routte munich
Image: Von Routte

13. Von-Röutte Munich

Von-Röutte takes inspiration from classic silhouettes with the Munich sneaker. Handmade in Portugal, the timeless look and versatility of this black sneaker make it perfect for casual and semi-formal wear. The sneaker features a leather upper and lining with suede details, and when you move to the back there’s a leather pull tab that finishes off the silhouette nicely. Paired with some fitted trousers and you have a great sneaker for smart casual wear.

Made in: Portugal
Sole:
Rubber 100%
Lining: Leather 100%
Upper: Leather 100%, Suede detailing
Price: $234

Buy it here (Von Routte)

Vivienne westwood x asics gel kayano 26
Image: GOAT

14. Vivienne Westwood x ASICS Gel-Kayano 26

One of 2020’s prominent sneaker releases, the Vivienne Westwood x ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 harks back to Westwood’s Buffalo collection in 1983. The sneaker features a fairly obvious open mesh net around the upper and a toggle lacing system for adjustability. To pull these off you’ll need a keen eye for fashion and if that’s not your prerogative it’s best you leave these alone.

Style: 1021A320-001
Colorway: BLACK/BLACK
Price: from $200 AUD
ReleaseDate: 09/28/2020

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Goat)

Maison margiela replica
Image: Maison Margiela

15. Maison Margiela Replica

The Maison Margiela Replica comes in a variety of colourways, luckily one of them is triple black. The shoe resembles the German Army Trainer shoes of the 1970s and is even referred to as the Maison Margiela GAT for its resemblance to the army sneakers it gets its name ‘replica’ from. The popular silhouette made its way into army surplus stores after the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989 and the Replica was introduced by Margiela in his fashion shows throughout the 1990s. Today the Replica is worn by the most fashionable people in the business and for good reason, it’s truly a timeless silhouette.

Check out this Maison Margiela Replica alternative for a cheaper option of equal quality.

Made in: Italy
Sole
: Rubber 100%
Lining
: Leather 100%
Outer
: Leather 100%
Price: from € 348

Buy it here (Maison Margiela)

Nike x comme des garcons air force mid
Image: GOAT

16. Nike x Comme des Garçons Air Force Mid

Turn that black Air Force 1 energy up a notch with Comme’s take on the Air Force Mid. This silhouette was first debuted at the COMME des GARÇONS FW20 “Neo Future” fashion show back in March 2020. The sneaker embodies the designer’s idea that it is not possible to make something completely new. The raw edges around the Nike Swoosh demonstrate the designer’s idea perfectly. Finishing off the design is Comme des Garçons branding on the strap, a key feature of the Air Force Mid.

Style: DC3601-001
Colorway: BLACK/BLACK-WHITE-BLACK
RetailPrice: $270
ReleaseDate: 10/23/2020

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Goat)Buy it here (Farfetch)

Best black sneakers for men adidas ultra boost 1 0
Image: StockX

17. adidas Ultra Boost 1.0

The Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0 triple black rewinds the clock on an old classic. As is everything that Kanye touches, the Ultra Boost was one of the most highly sought after sneakers back in 2015. Kanye wore a pair of triple white Ultra Boosts but the triple black was still a favourite among fans. This is the perfect pair of sneakers for ducking out of the house to let everyone know you know a little bit about footwear trends.

Style: BB4677
Colorway: CORE BLACK/CORE BLACK/CORE BLACK
RetailPrice: $200
ReleaseDate: 12/01/2016

Buy it here (StockX)Buy it here (Goat)Buy it here (Flight Club)

Comme des garcons play x converse chuck 70 1
Image: Converse

18. Comme des Garçons Play x Converse K112 High-top Sneakers

Highly revered in the streetwear scene the Converse Play Chuck 70 has all the makings of a streetwear staple. Anything the little red heart touches usually turns into a fan favourite, it is the instant familiarity of the Chuck 70 silhouette that takes this one a step further. The upper features black canvas, a premium material that is exclusive to Chuck 70. Finally, the sneaker proudly displays a classic CDG red half heart with two eyes peeking out from the midsole.

Sole: Rubber 100%
Lining:
Canvas 100%
Outer:
Canvas 100%
Price: $240 AUD

Buy it here (Converse)Buy it here (Incu)

How to Wear Black Sneakers

Black sneakers are the most versatile shoe in every man’s wardrobe, after all, you’re never out of style when you’re all blacked out. As the essential sneaker for your rotation, they have the ability to literally go with everything. You can pair black sneakers with tracksuit pants or suit pants, all that matters is the occasion.

One major benefit of joining the dark side is that you don’t have to worry about dirtying them up compared to white sneakers. They’re a neutral shade that won’t require much maintenance. In fact, some options like the ‘Black Cat’ Jordan 4 and G Dragon Air Force 1 look even better once they’ve taken a bit of a battering.

RELATED: Our guide on the best sneakers for men will help you find your favourite style.

Interested in more sneakers stories? Here are a few stories to get you started:

Alternatives to Black Sneakers for Men

Different Sneaker Colours

Best Sneaker Styles for Men

Best Sneaker Stores in Different Cities

Black sneakers are the most versatile shoe in every man’s wardrobe, after all, you’re never out of style when you’re all blacked out. As the essential sneaker for your rotation, they have the ability to literally go with everything. You can pair black sneakers with tracksuit pants or suit pants, all that matters is the occasion.

One major benefit of joining the dark side is that you don’t have to worry about dirtying them up compared to white sneakers. They’re a neutral shade that won’t require much maintenance. In fact, some options like the ‘Black Cat’ Jordan 4 and G Dragon Air Force 1 look even better once they’ve taken a bit of a battering.

RELATED: Our guide on the best sneakers for men will help you find your favourite style.

We’ve put together a list of the best black sneakers for every man’s rotation, including everything from the best black leather sneakers to sought-after rarities that we’d love to have our hands-on. Let’s check it out.

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General FAQ

What is the best black leather sneaker for men?

The Common Projects Achilles Low is the best black leather sneaker for men. If you're looking for a cheaper alternative try the Oliver Cabell Low 1.

What is the best triple black sneaker for men?

The best triple black sneaker for men is the New Balance 550. Alternatively, the Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 is a more comfortable option, but a little out dated at this point.

What sneaker goes with everything?

Black sneakers go with everything. If you can't decide on what style to go for, a black tennis shoe like the Achilles Low from Common Projects is a great choice.

What is black air force 1 energy?

Someone with black air force 1's is usually partaking in some illegal activities. Some say they're the kind of person who can't be trusted and is likely to steal something from you or someone else.