When you think of footwear for fall, your first thought probably turns to booties or boots. But sneakers can be a great option, too. Sneakers are perfect for when summer has passed but it’s not quite cold or wet enough yet for those boots. This article has our favorite fall women’s sneakers and what to look out for when choosing sneakers for fall.
Take a look, and don’t forget to let us know in the comments at the bottom if you have a pair you love that you think we should include.
What to look out for when choosing sneakers for fall
When choosing fall women’s sneakers, there are more considerations than simply whether they look good – although obviously that’s important too.
You should also be sure to look for…
Alison @wardrobe_oxygen above (read her style interview here) opts for classic white sneakers with her fall outfit.
Recreate her outfit with this similar top, jacket, pants, sneakers and bag.
1. Water-resistant or waterproof materials
Depending on where you are, fall often brings wet weather, so choose sneakers made from water-resistant materials like leather, synthetics, or Gore-Tex. These will keep your feet dry. Also, make sure your sneakers are constructed well enough to withstand the elements. You want reinforced stitching, sturdy soles, and high-quality materials.
We love the Blondo brand for waterproof boots, and it’s also a good go-to for water-resistant sneakers like these.
Blondo Lois Retro Waterproof Running Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
2. Comfort and support
You’ll likely wear sneakers for extended periods, so make sure to choose a pair with good cushioning. Proper arch support can help prevent any tiredness and discomfort, and you’ll also want your shoes to be breathable. Just because they are keeping water out, that doesn’t mean you want your feet to get hot and sweaty.
Also, take a look at our articles on shoes with arch support for good brand suggestions and on sneakers for plantar fasciitis.
Vionic Walk Max Water Repellent Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
3. Traction and grip
Inclement weather can bring slippery sidewalks, so be sure that your sneakers have a robust sole that gives you good traction. The good news is that chunky soles are very on-trend, so you get style and practicality all wrapped up in one.
4. Style
Of course, just because a pair of shoes is practical doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish. Look for sneakers that combine both. For inspiration, check out our article on shoe trends for fall. Or, simply choose a pair of sneakers in one of this season’s must-have colors, like the burgundy pair below.
Blondo Ellorie Waterproof Wedge Sneaker
5. Fit and size
It goes without saying that you need to get a pair of sneakers that fit you properly. But one extra consideration for fall is what socks you will be wearing with your sneakers. If you will be wearing thick socks, you will want to size up in your sneakers.
Stems Luxe Merino Wool & Cashmere Blend Crew Socks
6. Versatilty
Particularly when it comes to fall, you are likely to be mixing and matching some summer outfits and gradually transitioning to warmer clothes and sturdier shoes. So, you want to be sure that your sneakers will go with lots of the looks you like to wear. Choose a pair that will go with everything from your summer dresses to your jeans.
Veja Campo Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
7. Colors
The classic sneaker look is to choose white, but that might not be very practical for fall, unless you have a pair that you can easily clean. Instead, opt for darker colors that won’t show up any dirt or rain spots so much.
Carmen @carmen_gimeno above chooses black sneakers and adds color with her knitwear.
Check out this similar tee (plain option here), cardigan (another option here), skirt, tights, sneakers, handbag and sunglasses.
8. Platform soles
Choosing a higher sole can not just add height, but help to protect the rest of your sneakers from the elements.
Børn Mira Platform Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
9. High tops
To combine the look of sneakers with boots for a stylish and practical look for fall, choose a pair of high tops.
Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse Chuck Taylor® All Star® Heart High Top Sneaker
10. Warmth
For most of you, the temperature is dipping in fall. So, be sure to choose a pair of sneakers that will keep you cozy. Look for faux fur and shearling lining.
Veja Wata II Low Winter Sneakers
11. Ease of maintenance
While your sneakers probably won’t get too dirty in summer, in fall, you are dealing with messy weather conditions. So, be sure to choose a pair that you can easily protect and maintain. And, use a protector before you start to wear them.
Crep Protect Shoe Protector Spray
More of our favorite sneakers for fall
Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk above chooses athletic-style sneakers with her print dress.
Get her look with this similar dress (another option here), coat, sneakers and bag.
Let’s take a look at more choices for fall…
Veja
Look for bold colors and textures for fall, like the green sneakers (below).
Veja Campo Bold Sneakers
(Zappos / Nordstrom)
Taos Footwear
We love the subtle metallic sheen to the Taos sneakers (below). They work as a neutral so will go with everything in your closet.
Taos Footwear Winner Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos)
Gola
The color combination of the Gola sneakers (below) features the classic autumnal shades of green and terracotta together with glamorous gold, and on-trend pink. You can keep the rest of your outfit neutral, or match it to one of the shades in your look.
Gola Daytona Quadrant Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos)
ECCO
Black and white is a classic, and the ECCO sneakers (below) will go with absolutely everything.
ECCO Street Ace Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
New balance
New Balance sneakers are renowned for their comfort, and the neutral pair below have great grips for fall weather.
New Balance Classics 327 Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
adidas by Stella McCartney
Add a designer element to your casual looks with the Stella McCartney sneakers (below). Wear for exercise or with your day-to-day outfits.
adidas by Stella McCartney Ultraboost 5 Shoes
Dr. Scholl’s
We love Dr. Scholl’s for comfort, and the curved sole adds interest to any look.
Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Go Sneakers
Ralph Lauren
Look for leather sneakers that you can look after easily in fall. The Lauren Ralph Lauren sneakers (below) are ideal if you love a classic or old money style.
Lauren Ralph Lauren anson II Burnished Leather Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos)
Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman’s sneakers have a stylish retro feel to them, and a great chunky sole. They come in a huge choice of colors so you’re bound to find one that fits in with your wardrobe.
Sam Edelman Layla Sneakers
(Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
Madden Girl
We love the swoosh on the Madden Girl sneakers (below), and there’s a great choice of colors.
Madden Girl Giia Sneaker
(Amazon / Zappos)
Do you have your own favorite fall women’s sneakers? Let us know your recommendations in the comments section below.
shop the best fall women’s sneakers:
Continue reading:
- Fall shoe trends for 2024
- Best shoes with arch support – comfortable walking shoes to walk in all day!
- The best plantar fasciitis shoes for women over 40
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Feature image by Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk
Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.
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