6 Best Breathable Sneakers (2024)

Vans Old Skool is, without a doubt, the best breathable sneaker out there. After extensive lab testing and strolling around town, we discovered that apart from breathing like it has a lung, the sneaker also offers divine comfort. Even without socks, this legendary skating silhouette is a three-season fashion beast that rules the streets and the parks.

When we put the sneakers on, we first noticed the cloud-like comfort they provided. The interior is soft, and it only took us a few steps to break them in. Then we took the Old Skool out for a stroll around the city and found that the canvas upper breathes like crazy! We felt the canvas allowing air to flow into the sneaker, keeping our feet cool. No socks? No sweat, no worries!

Staying true to its skating heritage, the clean and classy canvas upper of Vans Old Skool is complemented by a well-constructed rubber outsole. After several miles of walking on pavements, asphalt, and tarmac, we noticed how the soles remained unbelievably grippy.

Back in the lab, we tested the sneakers' resistance to dirt by applying colored chalk to the upper. We were disappointed to find that the canvas material absorbed the colors to the point where brushing them with soap and water was not enough to remove the discoloration. For this reason, we advise sneakerheads who want an easy-to-clean sneaker to look somewhere else.

Out of all the breathable sneakers in our extensive database, the Nike Air Max 270 stands out as the supreme choice for sockless wear. Through rigorous testing of hundreds of sneakers, we discovered that the AM270's neoprene interior is the key to its exceptional comfort even without socks. Complementing this, the mesh panels ensure optimal airflow, contributing to a cool and airy interior.

Upon donning the sneakers, a sense of contentment enveloped our feet. The fit was just right, and the neoprene sock liner cocooned our feet in comfort. We wore them without socks and were delighted to confirm that the comfort remained uncompromised. Interestingly, the absence of socks lent the shoes an even sportier vibe.

Moreover, we observed that the mesh upper played a pivotal role in maintaining foot comfort due to its effective facilitation of airflow. In our lab, we subjected the upper to a rigorous scratch test, employing a power drill fitted with a wire brush. The material impressively withstood the challenge, exhibiting no signs of fraying or damage.

However, our lab testing also unveiled a drawback: the mesh material attracts dirt easily. By introducing colored chalk and dye into the toebox, we found that the mesh readily absorbs the colors. While cleaning is feasible, the drying process takes time. Consequently, we don't recommend AM270 for individuals seeking a stain-resistant low-top option.

New Balance 327 aced air circulation and steadiness so much that it excelled beyond comparison in both areas. Wearing this sneaker in our actual daily affairs afforded us extra height minus the feeling of vulnerability from instability. Also, sweat wasn’t given a chance to build up on our feet, thanks to its incredibly permeable upper.

As if the upper didn’t exist from the way the smoke that we blew inside the sneaker exited the 327. This led us to rate the breathability a 4/5. To validate our findings, we subjected the sneaker to a secondary permeability test using our microscope. To no surprise, our device revealed loosely woven fiber.

We subjectively gauged the stability of the 327 by performing lateral weight shifts while wearing the pair. It granted us a secure stance. For additional certainty, we also twisted the sneaker using our hands, and based on personal feel, the torsional rigidity deserved a 4/5 score. Both tests were consistent with our experience while roaming around: solid footing!

However, we found it best for individuals with narrow feet. The most expansive section of the toebox is 94 mm, 3 mm shorter than the average. We suggest going for other wider options or opting for a size up if you have wide feet.

After subjecting thousands of breathable sneakers to intricate testing in both the lab and the streets, we concluded that the Nike Air Max 90 excels in terms of durability. With its robust construction and high-quality materials, this multi-textured sneaker, now over 30 years old, lives up to its reputation for toughness.

Visually, the intriguing combination of leather and mesh on the upper of the AM90 is striking. Its visual appeal prompted us to ensure that its performance matched its looks. After pounding them on the pavement for several days, these kicks displayed exceptional resilience.

Taking our examination to the lab, we deliberately scuffed them using a metal brush attached to a power drill. The Air Max 90 demonstrated its dominance, with only a slight surface texture chipped off despite the abrasion. Overall, the distressed upper enhanced the sneaker's edgy aesthetic.

The high-quality mesh, primarily visible on the toebox of the shoe, facilitates airflow, allowing the AM90 to breathe. We conducted a stain test on the mesh by pouring dye onto the material. Although the toebox absorbed the colors, we were pleased to discover that a regular shoe cleaner was sufficient to restore their sparkling cleanliness.

Additionally, during our testing, we observed that these kicks tend to run on the narrower side. For shoppers with normal or wide feet, we recommend exploring alternative options.

The Nike Air Zoom-Type stood tall among all the other kicks we tested in our lab, earning its place as our top pick for the best chunky breathable sneaker. The sneaker's chunky midsole seamlessly blends with a modern aesthetic. However, it offers more than just style; it's incredibly responsive and surprisingly featherlight. What more could we ask for?

Upon first seeing the double-layered soles of the Air Zoom-Type, we took a second glance. They managed to be quirky, modern, and futuristic all at once. The woven upper, which is both light and breezy, complements the aesthetic exceptionally well. In our abrasion test, where we scratched the upper with a wire brush attached to a drill, the woven material exhibited impressive durability despite its thin and airy nature.

While taking these kicks for a stroll around town, we discovered that despite the substantial soles, they remain incredibly lightweight. Upon closer examination, we noticed that the TPU shanks embedded in the soles contribute significantly to their energy return. Overall, the chunky soles prove to be highly responsive, offering a unique walking experience.

However, despite the lightweight and airy design of the Zoom-Type, they can be heavy on the wallet. In our database, they retail for $150, which is 24.2% pricier than the average cost of all breathable chunky sneakers ($120.8). For those seeking more budget-friendly options, it's advisable to explore alternatives elsewhere.

In the category of breathable sneakers, the PUMA RS-X prevailed as the superior retro model. The ventilation of this sneaker really wowed us as it notably relieved us from sweaty feet even on the hottest days. What’s more, is that it offers affordability without sacrificing its bold and captivating vintage aesthetic.

To fully grasp how inviting the PUMA RS-X’s upper to air, we meticulously inspected it under the illumination of a bright light and our microscope. These two tests unveiled identical results: porous toebox and quarter.

The colorway selection for this retro piece is simply a feast for the eyes. While its classic charm is stunning, it didn’t require a fortune. In fact, the PUMA RS-X is priced at $110, which is 30.2% cheaper compared to its kind.

We confirmed that its hefty silhouette equates to its weight. Our scale read 16.05 oz (455g), which is 12.3% above the typical sneaker weight. If you wish for something that’s unburdening on your feet, we urge you to explore other breathable alternatives.