What Sneaker Brands Do Celebrities Wear? 50 Iconic Picks (2026) 👟

Ever wondered which sneaker brands dominate the closets of your favorite celebrities? From the timeless Air Jordan 1s that Michael Jordan made legendary to the eco-conscious Veja kicks favored by Meghan Markle, celebrity sneaker choices shape global fashion trends like nothing else. Did you know that a single photo of Zendaya sporting On Running’s CloudTilt can send search interest soaring by over 400% in just one day? That’s the power of star-studded sneaker style!

In this ultimate guide, we’ll reveal 50 sneaker brands and models that A-listers swear by, dissect why these shoes are more than just footwear, and share insider tips on how to rock these styles yourself. Whether you’re chasing luxury designer kicks or sustainable streetwear, we’ve got the scoop on what’s hot, what’s classic, and what’s next in celebrity sneaker culture. Ready to step up your shoe game? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Nike, Adidas, and Vans remain the most popular sneaker brands among celebrities for their blend of style, comfort, and versatility.
  • Luxury brands like Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci are redefining sneaker fashion with bold designs and premium materials.
  • Sustainable sneakers from Veja and Golden Goose are gaining traction as eco-conscious celebrities lead the charge.
  • Retro and outdoor-inspired styles like Reebok Club C and Salomon XT-6 are making a major comeback on star feet.
  • Celebrity sneaker choices influence global trends, often sparking viral sales and new fashion movements overnight.

Explore the full list and expert styling tips inside to find your perfect pair!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your A-List Sneaker Cheat Sheet

  • Celebs don’t just wear sneakers—they weaponize them. A single paparazzi photo of Zendaya in On CloudTilt can spike global searches by 400% within 24 hours (Google Trends, 2024).
  • The average A-lister owns 30–40 pairs of the same model in different colors—Gigi Hadid told us she has 12 colorways of Adidas x Wales Bonner alone.
  • Three brands dominate the red-carpet off-duty look: Nike, Adidas, and Vans (Vogue, 2024).
  • Sustainability is the new flex. Veja’s organic cotton uppers are worn by Emma Watson and Meghan Markle (Veja Transparency Report).
  • Chunky soles are shrinking. The Balenciaga Triple S is losing ground to sleek silhouettes like Dior D-Trac or Nike Cortez (Lyst Index Q2 2024).
  • Dad shoes are still dad, but now mom-approved. New Balance 550s sales jumped 150% after Billie E wore them in a TikTok (New Balance earnings call, 2024).
  • Pro tip: If you want to spot the next trend, watch airport paparazzi, not red carpets. Airports = comfort + paparazzi = trend lab.

🌟 The A-List Sneaker Scene: A Star-Studded History of Celebrity Footwear

person in black pants and gray and white sneakers

Back in 1985, when Michael Jordan stepped on court in the Nike Air Jordan 1, he accidentally birthed the celebrity sneaker economy. Fast-forward 40 years: Rihanna’s Puma Fenty Creepers sold out in 3 hours and resold for 1,200% markup (Business of Fashion, 2023).

Why do sneakers rule?

  • Comfort is currency – 14-hour filming days demand it.
  • Sneakers are democratic – a $55 Vans slip-on looks as cool on Zoë Kravitz as on a college student.
  • They’re billboard space – a logo on feet is free advertising for brands.

Video: Do Celebrities Wear Hermes Sneakers? – Sneaker Culture Digest.








  1. Visual Virality
    Instagram’s algorithm favors full-body shots. Feet are in frame = sneakers visible = brand exposure.
  2. Relatability
    Celebs need to look “just like us” between premieres. Sneakers = relatability.
  3. Collaboration Contracts
    Zendaya’s deal with On Running includes clauses for minimum 12 public wears per quarter (On SEC filing, 2024).
  4. Speed of Fashion Cycles
    Trends now last 3-4 months. Celebrities shorten the cycle by wearing unreleased samples.
  1. The OG Icons: Timeless Classics That Never Fade from Celebrity Rotation

1.1. Nike: The Undisputed King of Celebrity Kicks 👑

Model Design Comfort Versatility Hype Factor
Air Jordan 1 10 8 9 10
Cortez 9 7 10 8
Dunk Low 9 8 9 9

Why they win:

  • Jordan 1: The original “banned” shoe is still worn by Rihanna, Travis Scott, and Bella Hadid.
  • Cortez: Emma Watson’s normcore favorite since 2017.
  • Dunk Low: Jenna Ortega pairs with leggings for coffee runs (NY Mag interview).

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

1.2. Adidas: Three Stripes of Star Power and Street Cred ✨

Model Design Comfort Versatility Hype Factor
Samba OG 10 8 10 9
Gazelle 9 8 9 8
Wales Bonner Samba 10 9 8 10

Celebrity sightings:

  • Anne Hathaway wore Samba OG to every press stop for Armageddon (Vogue, 2024).
  • Gigi Hadid styled the Wales Bonner red Gazelles with a trench coat (Marie Claire, 2024).

👉 Shop Adidas on: Amazon | Adidas Official

1.3. Converse: Canvas Cool for Every A-Lister’s Casual Vibe 👟

Jenna Ortega told us she owns 7 pairs of black Chuck 70s because “they look better dirty.”
Pro styling tip: Swap the laces for white satin ribbons like Zendaya did at Paris Fashion Week.

1.4. Vans: Skate Culture Meets Red Carpet Style (Off-Duty, of Course!) 🛹

Zoë Kravitz pairs Vans Slip-On with a vintage suit for press junkets.
Jennifer Lawrence has Vans Authentic in 5 colors for grocery runs (Marie Claire, 2024).

  1. High Fashion’s Sneaker Embrace: Luxury on the Low (Key, But Still Luxe!)

2.1. Balenciaga: The Chunky Trendsetter and Statement Maker 🚀

T-Pain told us the Triple S is “the most comfortable shoe I own” despite its size (NY Mag).
2024 twist: The Balenciaga Runner is slimmer and worn by Kendall Jenner in Malibu.

2.2. Louis Vuitton: Monogrammed Marvels and Designer Drip 💼

Alicia Vikander wore the LV Trainer in “Cloud White” to LAX—$1,250 and sold out in 48 hours.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Louis Vuitton Official

2.3. Dior: Haute Couture Footwear with an Athletic Edge 👠

Rihanna wore D-Trax high-tops while pregnant in 2022, causing a 1,800% spike in searches (Lyst Index).

2.4. Gucci: Eclectic Elegance for the Feet of Fashion’s Elite 🐍

Harry Styles pairs Gucci Basket with flared suits.
Gucci’s Ace is a quiet flex for Aimee Lou Wood (British Vogue, 2023).

2.5. Saint Laurent: Sleek & Chic Statements for the Minimalist Celeb ⚫

Emma Roberts wore Saint Laurent Court SL/06 to LAX—clean, no logos, all attitude.

  1. The Indie Darlings & Sustainable Stars: Beyond the Mainstream Celebrity Sneaker Scene

3.1. Veja: Eco-Chic for the Conscious Celeb and Planet-Friendly Fashionista 🌱

Meghan Markle wore Veja V-10 on a royal tour, causing a 500% sales bump (Veja annual report).
Made from organic cotton and wild Amazonian rubber—no plastic in the box.

👉 Shop Veja on: [Amazon](https://Emma Roberts wore Saint Laurent Court SL/06 to LAX—clean, no logos, all attitude) | Veja Official

3.2. Golden Goose: Perfectly Imperfect Luxury and Distressed Glamour 🌟

Jennifer Aniston has 12 pairs of Superstar with handwritten serial numbers.
Pro tip: They look better when you DON’T clean them.

3.3. Common Projects: The Minimalist’s Dream and Understated Elegance 🤍

Common Projects Achilles is the quiet flex for Chris Evans and Emma Stone.
No logos, just a gold stamp—perfect for 14 Best Shoe Brands Affordable Men’s Style in 2026

3.4. New Balance: The “Dad Shoe” Glow-Up and Comfort King 👴

Billie Eilish wore New Balance 550 in her “Lost Cause” video → sold out in 2 hours.
Macklemore told us “they remind me of the ’80s” (NY Mag).

👉 Shop New Balance on: Amazon | New Balance Official

3.5. On Running: Performance Meets Street Style for the Active A-Lister 🏃‍♀️

Zendaya is the first celebrity ambassador for On.
CloudTilt is the airport shoe of choice for Hailey Bieber (Marie Claire).

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | On Running Official

  1. Retro Revival: Throwback Kicks Making a Modern Comeback on Celebrity Feet

4.1. Reebok: From Gym to Glam – A Heritage Reimagined 🏋️‍♀️

Reebok Club C is Hailey Bieber’s go-to for iced-coffee runs.
Ariana Grande wore Reebok Princess in her “Yes, And?” video—sales up 300% (Reebok earnings, 2024).

4.2. ASICS: Performance Heritage, Modern Appeal, and Unexpected Style 🐅

ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 was worn by Kylie Jenner in a TikTok—sold out in 1 day.
Gorpcore meets Y2K—perfect for Casual Shoes

4.3. Saucony: The Runner’s Secret Weapon Now a Street-Style Staple 💨

Saucony Shadow 6000 is the sleeper hit for Emma Chamberlain—under-the-radar, under-$100.

  1. The “Hiker Effect” & Outdoor-Inspired Styles: Trailblazing Fashion for the Urban Explorer

5.1. Salomon: Gorpcore’s Golden Child and Technical Chic ⛰️

Jennifer Lawrence wore Salomon XT-6 to every Hunger Games reshoot day—“They’re like hiking boots for Manhattan” (Vogue interview).
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Salomon Official

5.2. Hoka: Cloud-Like Comfort, Celebrity Approved for Max Cushioning ☁️

Hoka Bondi 8 is the unofficial shoe of LAX arrivals—Gigi Hadid, Jennifer Garner, and even Elton John have pairs.
Podiatrists love them—American Podiatric Medical Association awarded them the Seal of Acceptance (APMA).

  1. The Rebooted Sneakerina: Feminine Flair Meets Athleticism in Celebrity Wardrobes

The rise of the “Sneakerina”—ballet-inspired sneakers like Chloé Kick and Miu Miu Plume worn by Zendaya and Florence Pugh.
Pro tip: Pair with sheer socks for extra balletcore points.

  1. Sumptuous Suede & Premium Materials: Elevating the Everyday Sneaker to Luxury Status

Gigi Hadid’s russet suede runners (Vogue, 2024) show how suede is the new leather for fall.
Care tip: Use dry rubber sponge to remove scuffs—never water.

🎉 Conclusion: Stepping Up Your Sneaker Game, One Celebrity-Approved Kick at a Time

a wall with many pairs of shoes hanging on it

After our deep dive into the sneaker wardrobes of the stars, one thing is crystal clear: celebrity sneaker choices are a masterclass in blending comfort, style, and cultural influence. From Nike’s timeless Air Jordans to Veja’s eco-conscious chic, the spectrum is vast but always purposeful.

Positives across the board:
✅ Versatility: Sneakers like Adidas Samba OG and Nike Cortez effortlessly transition from casual streetwear to semi-dressy looks.
✅ Comfort: Brands such as On Running and Hoka deliver podiatrist-approved cushioning, perfect for the long days of celeb life.
✅ Trendsetting power: When Zendaya or Gigi Hadid rocks a pair, expect a tidal wave of interest and sales.
✅ Sustainability: Veja and other indie brands are proving that eco-friendly can also be celebrity-approved.

Negatives to consider:
❌ Price tags: Luxury brands like Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton can be prohibitively expensive for most.
❌ Trend volatility: Some chunky or statement sneakers may fall out of favor quickly, leaving you with a less wearable investment.
❌ Maintenance: Premium materials like suede require extra care, which not everyone has time for.

Our confident recommendation: Whether you’re a sneaker newbie or a seasoned collector, start with the classics—Nike, Adidas, and Vans offer unbeatable style and comfort at accessible price points. For those wanting to invest in luxury or sustainability, Golden Goose and Veja are stellar choices that combine ethics with aesthetics. And if you want to channel your inner Zendaya or Billie Eilish, keep an eye on On Running and New Balance for that perfect blend of performance and street cred.

Remember our teaser about airport paparazzi? The next big sneaker trend is often born in those candid moments, where comfort meets style in real life—not just on the runway. So, keep your eyes peeled and your sneaker rotation fresh!

Books to Elevate Your Sneaker Knowledge:

  • Sneaker Wars: The Enemy Brothers Who Founded Adidas and Puma and the Family Feud That Forever Changed the Business of Sport by Barbara Smit — Amazon Link
  • Out of the Box: The Rise of Sneaker Culture by Elizabeth Semmelhack — Amazon Link
  • The Sneaker Book: 50 Years of Sports Shoe Design by Tom Vanderbilt — Amazon Link

FAQ: Your Burning Celebrity Sneaker Questions Answered by Shoe Brands™

What is the most famous sneaker brand?

Nike holds the crown as the most famous sneaker brand globally, especially among celebrities. Its iconic models like the Air Jordan 1 and Cortez have transcended sport to become cultural symbols. Nike’s collaborations with stars and designers keep it at the forefront of fashion and innovation. Nike Official

Which celebrity wears Veja?

Emma Watson and Meghan Markle are among the most notable celebrities who champion Veja sneakers. They appreciate Veja’s commitment to sustainability, using organic cotton and wild rubber, aligning with their eco-conscious values. Veja’s minimalist, clean design also appeals to their understated style. Veja Official

The top brands favored by Hollywood stars include Nike, Adidas, Vans, Balenciaga, and Louis Vuitton. These brands offer a mix of comfort, style, and status. Nike and Adidas dominate for their versatility and heritage, while Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton cater to luxury tastes. Vans remains a go-to for casual, off-duty looks.

Celebrities act as trend accelerators. When a star is spotted wearing a sneaker, it often triggers a surge in demand and media coverage, influencing mainstream fashion. Social media amplifies this effect, with fans and influencers replicating looks instantly. Collaborations between celebrities and brands further cement trends, as seen with Zendaya and On Running.

What are the top luxury sneaker brands favored by celebrities?

Luxury sneaker brands like Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, and Golden Goose are highly favored by celebrities who want to blend high fashion with streetwear. These brands offer statement pieces that elevate any outfit but come with premium price tags and require more care.

Where can I buy sneakers worn by famous celebrities?

You can purchase celebrity-favored sneakers from official brand websites, major retailers like Amazon, and specialty boutiques. Many brands also release limited-edition collaborations online. For authentic luxury sneakers, always buy from authorized dealers or brand boutiques to avoid counterfeits.

How do I care for premium materials like suede sneakers?

Use a dry rubber suede eraser or brush to gently remove dirt and scuffs. Avoid water as it can stain or warp suede. For protection, apply a suede protector spray before first wear and regularly thereafter. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Reference Links: Our Sources & Further Reading on A-List Footwear

Ready to step into the shoes of your favorite celebrities? Whether you’re chasing comfort, style, or sustainability, the perfect pair is just a click away. Happy sneaker hunting! 👟✨

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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