Photo: Low Top Caribo Cognac by Filling Pieces.
Whether you opt for a richly hued goldenrod color, or something slightly more relaxed like a sunny beige, we found the shoes to put a little cheer in your step. Manufacturers have not only remained consistent in the traditional color ways we expect from sneaker brands – black, white, grey – but have embraced and sometimes gone a little too far in integrating statement tones. Somewhere in-between those two places they are giving us something to get on board with: jewel-toned sneakers that are both neutral yet statement-making.
At the top of our list is the Gel-Lyte V by ASICS Tiger. They have the build to stand up to a tough workout, but an unexpected color combination which mixes cream, beige and mustard, ensuring that you will definitely not blend in with everyone else at the gym. If you’re looking for a sneaker with a little more soul (and sole), we recommend the B.Elite in Suede by Diadora.
Don’t fret if the bright pigment and saturation is a little too much, understated versions exist as well. We like the Brohm Lite, by Ransom, a sneaker boot made in rich suede, and the Native Run (in Sand) by Nid De Guepes, which are handmade with an ode to Native American moccasins.
Pair your new footwear with a mix of staples. Instead of opting for the go-to jeans, we suggest trying these expressive shoes with some skinny black pants, along with a premium cotton tee and a button down sweater. For a more casual look, try some neutral joggers with a grey crewneck sweatshirt.
Best Foot Forward | The Golden Step
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Asics Tiger, Gel-Lyte V
The Gel-Lyte V, $130, by Asics Tiger, is shown here in slight white/Cathay Spice. The sneaker features suede & leather cream and grey combo uppers, and a mono sock liner made with breathable materials.
Photo: Asics Tiger
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Diadora, B.Elite in Suede
The B.Elite in Suede, $93.50, by Diadora, are available in three colorways, but look best in this poppy hue.
Photo: Diadora
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Ransom, Brohm Lite
The Brohm Lite, shown here in tan/light bone, $149.95, by Ransom, proves sometimes you need laces - but they don't need to be used in a traditional way.
Photo: Ransom
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Saucony, 35th Anniversary Jazz Original Premium
The 35th Anniversary Jazz Original Premium, by Saucony, $100, is celebrated by making it up in new materials, like Wolverine Silkee Suede, and premium leather.
Photo: Saucony
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New Balance, Vazee Rush Suede
The Vazee Rush Suede, $199.99, shown here in tan, by New Balance, was originally designed as a running shoe, but also looks good walking to a playoff game.
Photo: New Balance
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Nid De Guepes, Native Run in Sand
The Native Run, $275, shown here in sand, by N.D.G. (Nid De Guepes), is handmade with premium suede. They are inspired by the original Native American moccasins, with soles from Italy, handmade in Portugal.
Photo: Nid De Guepes
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Filling Pieces, Low Top Caribo Cognac
The Low Top Caribo Cognac, about $271, by Filling Pieces, is a true mash up with perforated sporty top uppers, lace closure with velcro detail & back end fringe for a little indie-flair.
Photo: Filling Pieces
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Diemme, Beige Deer Reverse Veneto Alto
Diemme releases a high top sneaker in a luxurious fashion. Try the Beige Deer Reverse Veneto Alto.
Photo: Diemme
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Clae, Hopper in Cinnamon Suede
Cinnamon Suede sounds like a delicious breakfast item, when really it's the rich colorway of these Hopper sneakers, by Clae, $110.
Photo: Clae