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Finding the perfect white sneakers for Europe trips is like solving a complex equation: you need something comfortable enough for all-day walking, stylish enough for dinner and versatile enough to work with multiple outfits. It’s a tall order, but celebrity stylists have cracked the code through years of jet-setting with high-profile clients.
“White kicks are my not-so-secret weapon when I’m city-hopping across Europe,” reveals Julie Matos, fashion and style director and celebrity stylist. “They ground every outfit, handle cobblestones, and still look chic at dinner.”
As someone who needs to keep clients looking impeccable while navigating everything from airport terminals to European streets, Matos has tested countless shoes in real-world European travel scenarios. Her picks aren’t just theoretically good—they’ve been proven on the streets of Rome, the hills of Lisbon and during full-day shoots in Paris. Ooh la la!
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Top White Sneakers for Europe Trips
- Best Current Obsession: Adidas Samba OG
- Best European Staple: Superga 2750 Cotu Classic
- Best Quiet Luxury: Common Projects Original Achilles
- Best All-Day Comfort: Converse Chuck 70 Platform
- Best Retro Vibe: Nike Cortez
- Best Under-the-Radar Hero: Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
- Best Minimalist Option: Converse Chuck 70 Low-Top
7 Best White Sneakers for Europe Trips
Best Current Obsession: Adidas Samba OG, $100
Matos can’t stop reaching for these classic trainers: “My current obsession. They’re clean, slightly sporty, and add instant polish to trousers, slip dresses, or vintage denim. I wear them straight off the plane and never feel under-dressed.”
The Samba’s versatility makes it perfect for European travel—you can wear them with virtually anything in your suitcase. The leather upper ages beautifully, and the gum sole provides excellent grip on various surfaces. Plus, they look intentional rather than like you just threw on any old sneakers.
Best European Staple: Superga 2750 Cotu Classic, $70
For authentic European style, Matos swears by these Italian classics: “The ultimate Euro staple. Lightweight canvas, vulcanized sole, and that effortless Italian vibe. I’ve worn them through August heat in Rome—no blisters, no drama.”
These canvas sneakers are beloved across Europe for good reason. They’re incredibly lightweight for packing, breathe well in hot weather and have that laid-back Mediterranean aesthetic that looks right at home in any European city. The vulcanized rubber sole is surprisingly durable and comfortable for long walking days.
Best Quiet Luxury: Common Projects Original Achilles, $482
When you need to elevate your look without sacrificing comfort, Matos reaches for these minimalist leather sneakers: “When I need ‘quiet luxury’ but still want sneaker comfort, I reach for these. Pristine leather, gold stamp detail, and they pair beautifully with linen suiting or a crisp tank dress.”
These Italian-made sneakers are the epitome of understated elegance. The premium leather molds to your feet over time, and the clean design works just as well with dresses as it does with jeans. They’re an investment piece, but one that will last for years of travel.
Best All-Day Comfort: Converse Chuck 70 Platform, $75
For maximum comfort during long sightseeing days, she loves the platform version of the classic Converse: “I live for the chunky-sole version—extra lift, extra cushion. Perfect for all-day museum runs.”
The platform sole adds significant cushioning compared to regular Converse, making them much more comfortable for extended walking. The extra height is flattering, and the classic silhouette means they work with everything from sundresses to tailored pants.
Best Retro Vibe: Nike Cortez, $90
When the expert stylist wants to add a vintage touch to her travel wardrobe, she picks these classic runners: “For a retro mood, I grab my white Cortez. Feather-light, ’70s track-star energy, and unexpectedly cute with high-waist trousers or a slip dress and jean jacket.”
The Cortez brings a fun, sporty element to outfits while remaining incredibly comfortable. They’re lighter than many sneakers, making them excellent for packing, and the retro silhouette adds character to simple travel outfits.
Best Under-the-Radar Hero: Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66, $190
For those who want something different from the usual white sneaker rotation, Matos recommends these distinctive trainers: “The under-the-radar hero. Heritage lines, cream-and-black palette, and they break in like a dream. Ideal for Lisbon hills or a full-day shoot in Paris.”
These Japanese sneakers offer a unique aesthetic that stands out from typical white sneakers while remaining versatile. The slim profile and distinctive striping make them conversation starters, and they’re incredibly comfortable once broken in.
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Best Minimalist Option: Converse Chuck 70 Low-Top
For travelers who need to pack light, she has a space-saving solution: “The classic low-top Chuck 70 folds flat and still styles with everything.”
The low-top version sacrifices some of the platform’s cushioning but makes up for it in packability. These can literally fold flat in your suitcase, making them perfect for longer trips where every inch of space matters.
Pro Styling Tips
The Two-Shoe Strategy
Matos has a smart approach to shoe packing: “I always pack two pairs—one ultra-minimal (Achilles or Samba) and one with personality (Platform Chuck or Cortez). Rotate them, and your looks feel fresh all week.”
This strategy ensures you have options for different moods and occasions while keeping your luggage manageable. One pair can be your “serious” shoe for nicer dinners or meetings, while the other adds fun to casual daytime exploring.
Versatility is Key
All of Matos’ picks work across multiple outfit categories. Whether you’re wearing “trousers, slip dresses, or vintage denim,” these shoes can handle the transition. This versatility is crucial when you’re living out of a suitcase and need every piece to work with multiple outfits.
Think Beyond Traditional Athletic Shoes
Notice that none of these picks are traditional athletic sneakers or hiking shoes. While those might seem like obvious choices for walking, they often look out of place in European cities or nice restaurants. These fashion-forward options provide comfort without screaming “tourist.”
Consider the Terrain
Matos specifically mentions these shoes handling “cobblestones,” “Lisbon hills” and “August heat in Rome.” When choosing travel shoes, think about the specific conditions you’ll encounter. European cities often have uneven surfaces and lots of walking, so shoes need to be both stylish and practical.
Break Them In
Several of Matos’ recommendations mention how the shoes feel after breaking in. Don’t pack brand-new shoes for a big trip—wear them around home first to ensure they’re comfortable for long days of walking all over Europe.
Sources:
Julie Matos, fashion and style director and celebrity stylist
Prices are accurate and items in stock at time of publishing.
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