Have you ever laced up a pair of high tops and felt that instant boost in style and confidence? These shoes are more than just footwear; they are a statement. From the basketball courts of the past to the streets of today, high tops carry a legacy. But finding the perfect pair can feel like a maze. Do you pick leather or canvas? Which height gives the best ankle support? And how do you style them so you look cool, not clumsy?
Choosing the right high top involves balancing comfort, durability, and that essential ‘wow’ factor. Many people struggle with these decisions, often ending up with shoes that don’t quite fit their needs or their wardrobe. That’s where we step in to clear the air.
This guide will break down everything you need to know. We will cover the best materials, essential styling tips, and how to choose a high top that supports your feet perfectly. Get ready to ditch the confusion and step into your new favorite footwear with certainty. Let’s dive into the world of legendary high top shoes!
Top High Top Shoes Recommendations
- This style runs large. Order a half size down.
- Canvas upper for that classic Chucks look and feel
- OrthoLite cushioning helps provide optimal underfoot comfort
- Diamond-pattern rubber outsole
- Iconic Chuck Taylor ankle patch and All Star license plate
- ALL DAY COMFORT - The Hi2 white or black high top men's sneakers have a cushioned midsole and removable ortholite foam sock liner to provide comfortable support. Shaft is 5 inches.
- DURABLE TRACTION - Reebok high tops have an abrasion resistant rubber outsole for long lasting durability, making them the perfect gym, workout, or basketball shoes for men - on or off court.
- CLASSIC REEBOK DESIGN - Reebok brings men footwear that's purposed for an active lifestyle and merges fashion with performance. The Hi2 mens high tops hoes have a retro 80s and 90s style that is both timeless and trendy at the same time.
- MULTI PURPOSE - Whether you're looking for men's basketball shoes or a really cool old school mens high top, the Reebok Hi 2 is your new go-to sneaker. More than just a mens hightop, it's a way of life. Available up to size 15 wide.
- TIMELESS STYLE - The Royal mens high top sneakers are part of Reebok heritage, offered in all black and all white to go with anything. Simple, cool shoes that are always on trend.
- Breathable Canvas - Womens high top canvas shoes are made of canvas upper,features breathable and comfortable.The canvas material has been updated to be more breathable.With Padded anti-collision Toe,more safely.
- Anti slip - High top sneakers for women with rubber outsole,features anti slip and strong grip.
- Soft & Comfortable - A comfortable and soft wearing experience for you.Womens black and white canvas shoes are padded memory foam,you can walk comfortable with them.
- Paired Well with - high top shoes shoes are classic design,well matched with jeans,dresses,skirt,t-shirts,leggings,sportswear and any casual wear.
- Occasions - ZGR Womens casual shoes are comfortable enough so you can wear them on any occasions,travel,casual,shopping,indoor work,walking,walk the dog,tennis and any other sports.
- TIMELESS DESIGN: Drawing inspiration from the high-top basketball sneakers of the '80s, these PUMA kicks alley-oop the comfort factor to ensure feet and ankles are supported from top to bottom.
- ENHANCED TECHNOLOGY: Utilizes PUMA's SoftFoam+, a step-in comfort sockliner designed to provide soft cushioning thanks to its extra thick heel.
- EYE-CATCHING: Features a synthetic leather upper. The iconic PUMA Formstrip stretches along the side and the look is completed with subtle branding embellishments.
- COMFORT AND SUPPORT: Mid-height with a padded collar adds extra stability and a lace closure for a snug fit.
- 【Breathable Canvas】Womens canvas sneakers fashion appearance, the upper adopts breathable canvas, skin friendly not sultry, keep the feet dry, rubber round head design, for different foot types of American women to provide soft and comfortable wearing experience.
- 【Platform Design】The sole of this platform shoes for women is 1.77 inches high, keep it steady while making your figure look taller and slimmer, Effective increase in height. There is no doubt that this will make you exude confidence when you are out and about.
- 【Non-Slip Sole】The white canvas shoes for women are full of design and the special texture of the rubber sole provides superb abrasion resistance and grip to meet your needs in a variety of environments, paired with a soft insole for all-day comfort.
- 【Easy to Match】If you still worry about matching, I think you will try this platform canvas sneakers for women. It can easily match your wardrobe, such as jeans, casual wear, shorts, skirts, etc. It is a good choice for daily wear, work, shopping, travelling and so on.
- 【Customer Service】Rominz women platform high top sneakers are dedicated to bringing fashionable and comfortable wearing experience to women all over the world.
- Material : breathable canvas fabric + anti-skip thick rubber sole
- Occassions:High top canvas sneakers easy to paired with jeans,pants and shorts,perfect for office working ,running ,gym sports ,casual wear for autumn ,summer,spring ,winter
- Regarding Shoes Size:pls refer to our size chart inner length before buy and consider your foot width to select correct size
- Warm tips to wash: put some tissue paper on the shoes after wash and do not expose the shoes to the sun directly to avoid color become yellow for white color
- 【COMFORT WEARING EXPERIENCE】hash bubbie Women's Fashion Sneakers are made of Superior Canvas Upper,which makes you Feel Breathable when you wear them.The Shoes Reinforce and Soften the Heel, they don't grind your feet,and not tired when walking or running.
- 【CLASSIC STYLE】Toecap and heel with rubber mould structure, enhances protection for feet.The Lace-up Shoes are Timeless,they feature Younger and Livelier, Free and Cute,Suitable for all Year Round.It's a good choice for back-to-school .The high-top design can protect the ankle well.
- 【ANTI-SLIP】High-Top Sneakers for Women are Anti-Slip and Soft thanks to the Durable Rubber Sole,Individual Stripe Design at the Bottom for Enhanced Friction and Grip.
- 【Suitable Occasion】 :Classics Canvas shoes easy to paired with casual clothes ,jeans ,shorts ,skirts etc. Good choice for office working ,at home ,shopping or attend party ,hiking and traveling ect.
- 【hash bubbie Size Tips】：High-Top Canvas Shoes are designed for USA womens ,If you can check the size before ordering, maybe you will get a more fit and comfortable shoes.
- Perforations throughout the vamp for enhanced breathability
- High top silhouette for a retro vibe
- Cupsole design allows for premium comfort
- Full-length Phylon midsole for lightweight cushioning
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Stepping Up in High Tops
High top shoes are cool. They cover your ankle, which gives you extra support. They look great with jeans or shorts. This guide helps you pick the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
When buying high tops, check these important things first:
1. Ankle Support and Height
- Height Matters: Some high tops just cover the ankle bone. Others go higher. Decide how much ankle coverage you really need. Basketball players usually want higher cuts.
- Padding: Feel around the collar (the top edge). Good padding keeps your ankle comfortable and stops rubbing.
2. Closure System
- Laces: Most high tops use laces. Make sure the eyelets (the holes for the laces) are strong. Long laces let you wrap them around your ankle for extra style and tightness.
- Zippers or Straps: Some modern styles add zippers or Velcro straps. These make taking the shoes on and off much faster.
3. Sole Flexibility and Grip
- Traction: Look at the bottom (the outsole). Does it have deep grooves? Deep grooves give you better grip on different floors.
- Flexibility: Bend the shoe a little. A good high top bends where your foot naturally bends (near the toe area). A shoe that is too stiff feels awkward when you walk.
Important Materials Matter
The material makes a big difference in how long the shoe lasts and how it feels.
Upper Materials
- Leather: Real leather lasts a long time. It molds to your foot over time. However, leather needs cleaning and conditioning.
- Canvas: Canvas is light and breathable. It is great for casual summer wear. Canvas shoes often cost less.
- Synthetics/Mesh: Modern sports high tops use synthetic materials. These are usually very light and help sweat escape, keeping your feet dry.
Sole Materials
- Rubber: Rubber soles offer the best grip. They are durable for walking and playing sports.
- EVA Foam: Some midsoles (the layer between the insole and outsole) use EVA foam. This makes the shoe lighter and softer for cushioning.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all high tops are made the same. Pay attention to how they build the shoe.
Quality Boosters
- Stitching: Good quality shoes have neat, tight stitching. Double stitching in high-stress areas (like where the sole meets the upper) means the shoe will last longer.
- Reinforcements: Look for extra material around the toe box and heel. These areas wear out fast, and reinforcements protect them.
Quality Reducers
- Glue Lines: If you see thick, messy glue showing where the sole attaches, the shoe might fall apart sooner.
- Thin Insoles: If the inside cushion feels paper-thin, you will need to buy replacement insoles quickly for comfort.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about what you will do while wearing your high tops.
For Style and Casual Wear
If you wear them just for looking good, focus on color, material texture, and brand reputation for comfort. Canvas or suede high tops look fantastic with vintage outfits.
For Sports (Basketball or Skating)
If you play sports, support is king. You need thick rubber soles and excellent ankle padding. Always choose shoes designed for that specific sport. They offer the best impact protection.
Remember to break in new shoes slowly. Wear them around the house first!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About High Top Shoes
Q: Are high top shoes better for my ankles than low tops?
A: Yes, high tops usually offer more physical support around the ankle bone. This can help prevent rolling your ankle during sudden movements.
Q: Do high tops make my feet sweat more?
A: Sometimes. Because they cover more skin, they can trap heat. Look for high tops made with mesh or ventilated synthetic materials if sweat is a concern.
Q: How do I clean canvas high tops?
A: Use a mild soap mixed with water and a soft brush. Gently scrub the canvas. Always let them air dry completely; never put them in a machine dryer.
Q: Should I wear tall socks with high tops?
A: It is highly recommended. Wearing socks that reach or go above the shoe collar protects your skin from rubbing against the material, preventing blisters.
Q: Can I wear high tops with dress pants?
A: It depends on the style. Very chunky athletic high tops look awkward with formal trousers. Slimmer, clean leather high tops can work with casual dress pants.
Q: How tight should my high tops be laced?
A: They should be snug around the foot but comfortable around the ankle. Do not lace them so tight that they cut off circulation or cause pain when you bend your foot.
Q: Are high tops only for men?
A: No. High tops are popular for everyone. Many brands make stylish high tops specifically designed for women, often with slimmer profiles or different color options.
Q: What is the main difference between basketball and skate high tops?
A: Basketball shoes focus on vertical jumping support and cushioning. Skate shoes focus on flat, grippy soles for board feel and heavy padding against impacts.
Q: How long should a quality pair of leather high tops last?
A: If you wear them regularly but take care of them, quality leather high tops can easily last three to five years.
Q: Do I need to buy a half size larger in high tops?
A: Not usually. Buy your normal shoe size. If you plan to wear very thick socks, then sizing up a half size might be wise for extra room.