The granddaddy of dad sneakers, the New Balance 990 is, for lack of a better word, perfect. Currently in its fifth iteration (dubbed the “v5”), the 990 originally debuted in 1982 and was designed as the best possible running show technologically possible—with a price tag to match. With a flashy marketing campaign and equally showy three figure price tag, the New Balance 990 became a status symbol, a sign of affluence reserved for the most serious runners and outdoor enthusiasts.

Immediately popular with younger baby-boomers, the style went from fashionable to '90s cliche and by the end of the millennium, dads everywhere had a pair of light grey 990s. While the brand continuously introduced new renditions (most recently last year), since its inception the show has always been light, technically focused and aesthetically streamlined, precisely why it is so popular to this day.

Though it took the fashion set a while to finally catch on, today the 990 is a closet must have, not only due to its aesthetic appeal, but simply because of how damn comfortable they are. There is a reason dads everywhere swear by them. Whether you are running to the store or plan on a spur of the moment half-marathon, the New Balance 990 is undeniable.

Despite a relatively small following, French-based athletic shoe brand Hoka One One is beloved amongst those familiar with its product. A favorite for runners and hikers alike, it’s extremely lightweight, highly functional sneakers can be spotted everywhere from ultra-marathons to backpacking trips. Though far removed from the menswear radar, following a celebrated collaboration with Engineered Garments, the flagship Tor Ultra (in both low and high versions) was suddenly a menswear must have, consistently sold out for months straight. Deceivingly light, the ample cushioning on the custom Vibram rubber outsole provides stability while the mixed leather and nylon upper is both durable and rain resistant.

Though the Engineered Garments collaboration comes at a price, thankfully the regular model is now available for well under retail. For those interested in a show that not only matches your favorite cargos but is actually functional enough a serious climb, the Tor Ultra Low is best in class. Co-opted by both the techwear and gorpcore set, Hoka One One is up next.

When the Flyknit Trainer first debuted in 2012, it was revolutionary. Featuring an entirely knit upper, Nike fans were shocked that a woven sneaker could be both so durable and aesthetically pleasing. Featuring the then-groundbreaking Free sole, the shoes' astounding weight—approximately a half pound each—was considered impossible, and the fact that they (for the most part) held up, even more so. Impossible to get your hands on, they were one of the most successful Nike Running silhouettes in years, one of the few to cross over into the sneakerhead market. Though the technology was quickly outdated and the tendency to rip through the Flyknit too prevalent, the shoe nonetheless was a smash success, prompting a collaboration with Supreme on the Lunar1+ iteration further the following year.

Though Nike running shoes have come a long way in the past eight years and performance-wise the Flyknit Trainer can no longer compete, from a design standpoint it is still a gorgeous runner, and perfect for a day in the city or as a gym shoe (permitted you don’t overdo it on the treadmill). Following a re-release in 2017, which saw a more durable upper atop a newly reworked sole, the Flyknit Trainer is officially back in business.

Throughout last year, French Alpine brand Salomon clearly had its moment. From a Palace collaboration to gracing Pusha-T’s feet, the trail ready sneaker was seemingly everywhere.

Though various fashion groups have long-praised the technical runners—most notably the founders of notable Parisian boutique The Broken Arm who regularly collaborate with the label—for the majority of menswear enthusiasts, the brand was entirely foreign, better known for its ski equipment than its suddenly fashion-forward footwear.

Attempting to capitalize on its surprise cool factor, Salomon launched the streamlined S/Lab series, which focuses on more versatile, less trail-heavy models better suited for urban environments. Of the numerous silhouettes, the XT-6 is by far our favorite.

Featuring a fully-cushioned EVA midsole, a synthetic perforated upper and the label’s celebrated “speed lacing” system, the shoes are guaranteed for hundreds of miles. Unlike the main Salomon offering, S/Lab aesthetics are consistently on point, featuring predominantly monotone colorways with occasional splashes of fire red or ocean blue to ensure the sneakers stand out. Not only are these sneakers lightweight, they are designed to work just about anywhere. Though the trend may have waned, the XT-6 will always be a shoe we can get behind.

The release of the original Ultra Boost in 2015 was, in retrospect, the high point of the German label’s decade. The exceedingly popular sneaker marked the start of the “Boost boom”. A period where adidas sales and growth outpaced Nike—along with the introduction of the Yeezy line utilizing the same technology—The Three Stripes were finally able to take back part of the marketshare it had lost throughout the early-'00s.

Now on its 20th iteration, the Ultra Boost is no longer plays nearly as big a role in the company’s running line up. Yet, the original black and triple white colorways are still one of its top sellers.

Featuring the energy returning Boost sole and a knit upper that was the subject of countless lawsuits—Nike and adidas still bicker about who designed what—the Ultra Boost is a lightweight, dependable shoe that will work in just about any environment. While they were worn to near death and popularity hit critical mass, now that the shoes are no longer nearly as popular, it's the perfect time to bring the originals back into the rotation. Once impossible to find in your size, now they are everywhere (especially on Grailed), and still just as great.

Before Kiko Kostadinov was a household name, he was a Central Saint Martins graduate student with a Stussy capsule and a criminally underrated Asics collaboration. Fast forward two years and several models later, and the designer's fashion line, streetwear offshoot Affix Works and Mackintosh sub-label are some of the most celebrated lines in the industry.

Known for his strong use of color and technical approach to fashion, Kostadinov’s collaboration predated the current Asics revival—and some could argue is responsible for it. Like his military trousers and oversized nylon tops, the designer prefers designs that are not only practical, but make a statement, and the original Gel-Burz 1 is no exception.

Available in three colors (black, birch and limeade), the shoe was, like many Asics models, orthopedic in nature. Yet, custom paneling and unexpecting color choices transformed the shoes from something your grandfather would wear to runway ready, a skill unique to Kostadinov. While more recent models received warmer receptions, in hindsight this first foray into footwear featuring an impact guidance system, a Gel cushion midsole and Flytefoam technology are the best of the lot. Unfortunately, resellers tend to agree, and price reflects as much. If you can find a pair for a reasonable price, act fast.

It’s hard to argue with the classics. Now over a 100 years old, the original Chuck Tayler All-Star changed basketball forever. While technology has left the canvas Converse in the rearview, as far as lightweight sneakers are concerned, it's difficult to find anything lighter. Wile the traditional Highs may be out of place during the summer, a simple black or blue low-top pair is perfect with shorts or jeans.

There’s little that hasn’t already been said about what is easily one of the most important shoes of all time, and arguing that a pair of All-Stars deserves a place in your closet is a moot point. They may not be for everyone, but All-Star Chuck 70 Lows are still one of the top selling sneakers in the world for a reason.

Looking for something slightly more flashy? Consider the recent J.W. Anderson “Kids” collaboration, which included a glitter-dusted ombre pair that despite aesthetic flourishes would still withstand daily wear.

Though Vans was originally founded in 1966, it wasn’t until ‘77 when the label introduced the “#98,” aka Slip-Ons. Immediately a hit with both skaters and BMX bikers, the Slip-On's durable vulcanized sole and cloth upper were lightweight while able to take a beating, while the the thicker than usual rubber provided additional comfort. Of course the checkered pattern or black on white pair is the preferred classic, the best part of Slip-Ons is the near infinite colorways, options and collaborations. No matter what music you listen to, sports you watch or spots you skate, there’s a pair for you.

Yes they are light and you can quite literally throw them on, but more than that Slip-Ons have always held a sort of laid back allure. After months indoors, maybe you’re not quite ready to wear real shoes outside just yet. For those of you looking to ease into things, Slip-Ons are the clear winner.