Trainers - alternative to Converse

[Merguez]

Can the style-conscious Mumsnetters please advise me on a good alternative to Converse, which I have been wearing for years and am really tired of.

I think I want something a bit more robust, although this would be for everyday wear with jeans and not going to the gym.

Thanks.

[Narp]

People round here (East London) seem to be wearing New Balance. They are ethically-produced, I believe.

[wankerchief]

Addias gazelles are nice and don't look gymish

[mintbiscuit]

I like my onitsuka tigers (though not sure how style-conscious I am!)

[TheWatchersCouncil]

I switched to Adidas Stan Smith. Much more comfortable. Gazelles look good too.

[Greengardenpixie]

My favourite are paladium oxford pampa. Love love love them. I have two pairs. One in a teal green and another in salmon pink. So versatile. Like converse though, no use in the rain i would imagine.

[Merguez]

Thanks some good suggestions here.

DS (13) has some Adidas Gazelles, so I think it would be slightly weird if I got the same.

I have noticed people wearing New Balance too, and like the idea that they may be ethically produced.

[Hopefully]

New Balance a very wearable, nice easy option. I like the Onitsuka tigers for something a bit more interesting (this is hypothetical, I don't actually own a pair!). Stan smiths are like converse low tops but slightly chunkier, so could work well?

[SeaRabbit]

Do New Balance have a slight heel? I've just acquired my first all stars (always late to the party) & find them quite uncomfortable because they are so flat.

I got them to replace some Ash buckled trainers that had just a slight lift. (Ash twice the price of Converse now, but sort of regret not buying them because they were comfortable)

[scribblegirl]

I came on to say New Balance too.

[MaisieDotes]

I like my Supergas, although I'm aware they're a bit naff. DD is 14 so not a hope of getting away with anything really cool.

[mrslebon]

I recently bought these and haven't taken them off yet.

tablet.hm.com/gb/product/82180?article=82180-A

[Merguez]

Which New Balance would people go for?

[Hopefully]

I have 574s in grey like these and I love them, but I think a lot of people find them too chunky. The 410 and 420s seem to get more love from the fashiony people.

[yazzy85]

Puma suede are popular, nike air max, and new balance like everyone else has suggested.

[GrimDamnFanjo]

I have some snazzy Rocket Dogs in leopard print canvas. Super comfy.

[Knackeredknitter67]

I have some puma suede, very comfy. Feel a bit confused about what to wear them with, having worn white trainers for so long

[WhyDoesGastonBark]

Usually somebody comes along and recommends sketchers by now... What has happened to MN!?!

[Cocolepew]

I have leather Converse hi tops and they are much more comfy than ordinary Converse.

[WhyDoesGastonBark]

I only wear leather converse now and would agree with the above comment

[MsRinky]

I have Eley Kishimoto Vans, they are great and much admired.

[Knackeredknitter67]

My 12 year old ds has just walked off wearing my puma suede. Ah well...

[mayum1]

I love Nike Air Max 90. Hug for feet.

[Fluffyears]

I really want some gazelles....Christmas wish!

[BritabroadinAsia]

Cocolepewand WhyDoes, are the leather converse as flat as the canvas ones, or do they have a bit more arch support? Am wondering what makes them more comfortable?

[JohnWick]

New Balance are not necessarily ethically produced. Some are made in the UK or USA- if so this will be clearly indicated on the tongue. The rest will be made in the Far East. They don't get a good rating on rankabrand.org

new balance rating