The five pairs our team can’t stop talking about
The 1130 sneaker ($139) pays homage to ASICS’ ninth iteration of the GEL-1000 series, with added GEL technology in the heel for extra cushioning.
Published
July 22, 2026
Published
July 22, 2026
Photography
Courtesy
Note
Items featured in this story are independently selected by the editorial team. Purchasing via our links may earn Valet. a portion of the sale, which helps fund our editorial mission.
When’s the last time you bought yourself some shoes? Let this be your sign that it’s time. There are so many great styles dropping these days, we thought we would pull a few of our current favorites to showcase. From a pair of affordable minimalist sneakers to some reworked clogs, these are the kicks our team can’t stop talking about.
Why don’t you slip into something a little cooler? Somewhere between a sandal and a loafer, Banana Republic’s suede clogs taps into the relaxed mood of the season without showing your toes. The streamlined silhouette and supple suede upper give it a more elevated feel than your average slip-on, making it just as appropriate with linen trousers as it is with drawstring shorts.
Suede clog,
What started as a 2008 stability runner has become one of the most versatile sneakers you can buy today. The GEL-1130 nails that sweet spot between technical and nostalgic, pairing layered mesh with metallic accents that work just as well with relaxed tailoring as they do with gym shorts. Lightweight, comfortable, and surprisingly easy to wear, it’s proof that the best everyday sneakers don’t need to shout. And this oatmeal and grey colorway feels fresh as hell.
ASICS Gel-1130 sneaker,
Haven’t pulled the trigger on a pair of low-profile sneakers yet? New Balance’s latest hit dials back the bulk in favor of a sleek, retro-inspired silhouette that feels like it jumped out of a ’70s running catalog. Premium suede, minimalist proportions and understated branding make it incredibly easy to style. The textured overlays wrap around breathable mesh, and the overall vibe looks really expensive (even though it’s not).
204L sneaker,
Clarks borrows the unmistakable moc-toe DNA of its legendary Wallabee and applies it to a classic deck shoe with surprisingly handsome results. The British tan leather, hand-stitched construction and signature crepe sole make it feel more refined than your average boat shoe while retaining all the easygoing charm that made the style a summer staple in the first place. Wear them with bold socks and your washed summer denim or sockless with linen trousers and call it a day.
Clarks Godney boat shoe,
The cult favorite is back. Tom Sachs’ General Purpose Shoe was designed with a simple idea: Make one sneaker that can do just about everything. The result is utilitarian but cool, understated and comfortable, combining breathable mesh, durable suede overlays and a grippy waffle outsole into a shoe that feels equally at home on a trail, bike ride or coffee run. But these always sell out fast, so don’t wait.
Nike x Tom Sachs General Purpose sneaker,
Get smarter about style.
Subscribe to The Obtainer for insider menswear intel, under-the-radar finds and actually good deals—delivered three times a week.
