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Original poster

Trainers - alternative to Converse

29 replies

Merguez · 03/10/2015 14:45

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.

OP posts:
Narp · 03/10/2015 15:57

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

wankerchief · 03/10/2015 15:58

Addias gazelles are nice and don't look gymish

mintbiscuit · 03/10/2015 16:03

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

TheWatchersCouncil · 03/10/2015 16:16

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

Greengardenpixie · 03/10/2015 16:20

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.

Original poster
Merguez · 03/10/2015 16:33

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.

OP posts:
Hopefully · 03/10/2015 16:49

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 · 03/10/2015 16:49

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 · 03/10/2015 16:51

I came on to say New Balance too.

MaisieDotes · 03/10/2015 16:53

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 · 03/10/2015 16:54

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

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

Original poster
Merguez · 03/10/2015 16:54

Which New Balance would people go for?

OP posts:
Hopefully · 03/10/2015 16:57

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 · 03/10/2015 18:46

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

GrimDamnFanjo · 04/10/2015 14:28

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

Knackeredknitter67 · 04/10/2015 14:57

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 · 04/10/2015 15:02

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

Cocolepew · 04/10/2015 15:05

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

WhyDoesGastonBark · 04/10/2015 15:47

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

MsRinky · 04/10/2015 16:01

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

Knackeredknitter67 · 04/10/2015 16:20

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

mayum1 · 04/10/2015 22:20

I love Nike Air Max 90. Hug for feet.

Fluffyears · 05/10/2015 01:13

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

BritabroadinAsia · 05/10/2015 02:57

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 · 05/10/2015 03:07

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