5 Essential Pairs of Sneakers We Promise You Need in Your Closet

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Sneakers are like jeans — you can easily think of an excuse to buy another pair, but you do always go back to your favorites. Even if you swear you wear all 42 of those styles sitting at the bottom of your closet, from your most prized designer collab ever purchased to the standard, everyday Vans, you really don’t need them all — we promise. In fact, we were able to narrow down the essential sneakers to just five key silhouettes/colorways (yup, five): white sneakers, high-tops, slip-ons, trainers, and personality-infused kicks.

If you’re a sneakerhead, you probably fear this list is a bit short (and we hear you — there are definitely some great shoes out there!), but with the flexibility to shop the brands you love most, you’re not going to feel like something’s missing when it comes to the footwear section of your wardrobe. Ahead, we’re breaking down the must haves and providing you with at least three options at a range of price points for every single category. Keep reading to see them all, and also get a few styling tips while you’re at it.