Smart and casual are no longer mutually exclusive when it comes to trainers. Whether for a work meeting or a wedding abroad, the best smart-casual trainers offer the perfect compromise—giving occasionwear a cool edge or elevating a casual fit. Style editor Nicky Rampley-Clarke has tested the latest styles to help you put your best foot forward.
What Defines a Smart-Casual Trainer?
According to Marcus Fairfax Fountaine, founder of Fairfax & Favor, “a smart-casual trainer is defined by its craftsmanship and versatility. It should be comfortable enough for everyday wear while being made with the same attention to detail and quality materials you'd expect from a more formal shoe.” As lifestyles become more flexible, men increasingly seek footwear that adapts to different settings without compromising comfort or quality.
Best Overall: Axel Arigato Clean 90 B Bird Sneaker
Rated 4/5 stars, these sneakers are handcrafted in Portugal from LWG-certified leather with a microfibre and recycled polyester lining. The rubber-cup soles are stitched and glued for durability. Nicky wore them to a gig, feeling cool yet comfortable enough to dance until late. Price: £225 at AxelArigato.com.
Best Budget Buy: ASOS Design Lace Up Canvas Trainer
Rated 5/5 stars, these khaki-green canvas trainers feature a low-profile design with a round toe and chunky sole. They dress up casual outfits or pair with shorts for summer. Nicky found them perfect with dark jeans and a white t-shirt for a meeting. Price: £35 at ASOS.com.
Best for Comfort: Duke + Dexter Plus Court Kiss Sneaker
Rated 4/5 stars, these Italian leather trainers feature a lipstick design on the heels and a 'J'adore' motif on the outsoles. The soft towelling lining nods to vintage styles. Nicky notes the aged look may make dressing them up tricky. Price: £240 at DukeandDexter.com.
Best for Retro Style: Mr Marvis The Classic Sneakers Lakes
Rated 3/5 stars, these low-top leather sneakers are made in Portugal with a perforated toe-box design inspired by the 1980s. Beloved by Prince William, the green and white colourway suits most outfits. Nicky warns they may be clunky with slim trousers. Price: £179 at MrMarvis.com.
Best for Craftsmanship: RM Williams Sandbar Sneaker Pebble Grain
Rated 3/5 stars, these unisex sneakers feature top-notch leather panels with a padded leather inside. The slim profile sits neatly under tapered trousers. Nicky wore them through an airport, finding them smart enough for business yet comfortable for walking. Price: £195 at RMWilliams.com.
Best for Weddings: Reiss Low-Top Suede Trainers Emerald Green
Rated 3/5 stars, these suede and leather trainers offer a designer look for less. Nicky paired them with white chinos for a fresh summer commute from office to bar. The Reiss logo on the heel is a minor drawback. Price: £138 at Reiss.com.
Best for Work: Oliver Sweeney Lopes Nubuck Lace Up Trainers
Rated 4/5 stars, these broad-toed trainers combine soft calf nubuck with leather trim. Features include a lace-to-toe design, twin stitch row detail, and cushioned leather insole. The green colourway is fresh but doesn't complement everything. Price available at JohnLewis.com.
Best for Versatility: Fairfax & Favour Holbourne White Navy & Grey Trainers
Rated 3/5 stars, these handcrafted trainers from the British luxury brand combine leather and suede. The cushioned sole made them comfortable for a long lunch, while the smart aesthetics suited a posh eatery. Nicky noted the tongue dug into her ankle initially. Price: £175 at FairfaxandFavor.com.
How Nicky Tested the Trainers
Nicky evaluated each trainer on three criteria: look (design, materials, craftsmanship), feel (fit and comfort), and performance (comfort after a brief outing and resistance to scuffing). Her top designer pick is Axel Arigato, while the budget favourite is ASOS Design—she wishes they offered more colours like pink.
