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Having made some questionable marketing decisions, Balenciaga has been put on the naughty step. Bearing in mind that its products also cost a fortune, it’s no surprise that the brand’s sales continue to suffer.
Crappy campaigns aside, they do have some pretty awesome collections. Which is probably why you’re here looking for shoes that look like Balenciaga. From the Triple S to the sock-like Speed, its forward-thinking footwear has inspired a whole new range of styles, of which I’ve rounded up the very best options in the article that follows.
Keep reading as I explain how to get your hands on comparable kicks for a fraction of the price.
Key Takeaways
Since Balanciaga first introduced its opinion-splitting footwear, brands far and wide have started to offer up similar sneakers without the eye-watering price tag. To find the best, I’ve searched every inch of the internet, reading reviews, ratings, and Reddit forums, to collate a collection of shoes that look like Balenciaga.
Here you’ll find my favorite options, including New Balance’s 9060 and Axel Arigato’s Satellite, many of which I’ve added to my own rotation. Each one offers unbeatable style, comfort, and versatility.
Why they’re great: I’m going to address the elephant in the room: Balenciaga sneakers are kinda ugly. But not in a conventionally ugly way. They’re cool—like, really cool. I guess that’s why so many people love them.
Following this quirky aesthetic, at a much cheaper price, is New Balance’s 9060. Featuring a chunky sculpted pod midsole with leather and mesh paneling, it boasts a charming, futuristic feel that’ll bring an eye-catching edge to your everyday ensembles. It also happens to be really comfy, with plenty of cushioning to keep feet happy.
Who are these for? These will appeal to collectors and casuals alike, ticking just about every box when it comes to finding shoes that look like Balenciaga. They’re unique, comfy, and not too expensive.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: I noticed a few reviews that said the soles were a little slippery on wet surfaces. Having said that, I’ve always managed to stay on my feet when wearing mine (so far, at least).
Material: Leather/Mesh | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 4–11.5 | Colors Available: 10+
Why they’re great: With a striking resemblance to Balenciaga’s Speed design, this budget-friendly pair are seriously impressive for the price. Featuring breathable knit uppers and soft and squishy insoles, they’re kind to your feet and wallet. Wearers find them easy to pull on and off, and top marks are also given for comfort, lightness, and versatility.
Who are these for? Great for exercise or everyday adventures, these will appeal to guys looking for a cheap alternative to the brand’s sock-like sneakers. Whether you wear them on long walks or city breaks, they’re an uber-comfy choice that comes in a range of colors and sizes.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: When it rains, the soles don’t offer the best grip.
Material: 100% Mesh | Sole Material: 100% Phylon | Sizes Available: 7–15 | Colors Available: 8
Why they’re great: Look familiar? These are a lot like Balenciaga’s Triple S sneakers, featuring a mix of mesh and synthetic panels with a chunky sole and lace-up fastening. Amazon reviewers give them five stars for fit and quality, and plenty of short guys loved how they gave them an extra few inches in height.
Who are these for? A standout option for casual fits, they’ll pair with everything from baggy jeans and hoodies to sweatpants and long-sleeved tees. They’re comfy enough to wear for long days standing and suitable for big guys as well as small ones.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: They’re not real leather, so they do have a slightly synthetic aroma.
Material: Synthetic/Mesh | Sole Material: 100% Synthetic Rubber | Sizes Available: 7–13 | Colors Available: 7
Why they’re great: Ready for the street, sand, or sludge, Reebok’s trail-inspired shoes give off serious Balenciaga vibes with their bulkiness and leather, suede, and textile accents. Water-repellant, squishy soft, and lined with Thinsulate tech, they’re geared up for just about any eventuality, whether you’re traveling, hiking, or meeting friends for coffee. I was super impressed with the all-terrain grip and ankle support.
Who are these for? A must-have for any guy, from explorers to fashion editors, these are excellent all-rounders that are best used to tackling the great outdoors. They’ll keep your feet dry and comfortable wherever you end up.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Some wearers find that they take a few days to properly ‘break in’.
Material: Leather/Suede/Textile | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 4–13 | Colors Available: 10+
Why they’re great: From mountain to mainstream, Salomon’s footwear is big news. Bursting with techy credentials and very easy on the eye, the brand’s do-it-all sneakers are a shrewd investment—especially for men looking for shoes like Balenciaga.
I love this pair, and it is suitable for all outfits, weather conditions, and terrains. They’re waterproof, cushioned, stable, and surprisingly lightweight. Better yet, they’ll look just as good with your cargos and oversized tees as they will with your walking wardrobe.
Who are these for? Since I jumped on the bandwagon, my Salomon sneakers have been with me everywhere, from camping trips and weekend hikes to muddy festivals and lunch dates.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: If you have wide, flat feet, then these cool sneakers can feel a little tight—especially at first.
Material: LeatherTextile | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 7–14 | Colors Available: 5
Why they’re great: A marvelous mash-up of leather, suede, and oval mesh, Axel Arigato’s Satellite sneakers are a maximalist model that demands attention. Featuring plenty of cushioning and a handy pull tab at the heel, they’re finished in true Balenciaga fashion with a chunky EVA rubber sole that’s striking and softens every step.
Who are these for? If you want a designer sneaker that’s half the price of those from Balenciaga, then these tick a lot of boxes; they share many of the same futuristic features and give your looks that same eye-catching edge.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Sizes sell fast, and they don’t come cheap.
Material: 43% Leather, 39% Recycled Textile, 18% Synthetic | Sole Material: 66% EVA, 34% Rubber | Sizes Available: 7.5–12 | Colors Available: 3
Buying Considerations for Shoes That Look Like Balenciaga
Silhouette
Balenciaga sneakers are renowned for their bold, chunky silhouette, especially seen in models like the Triple S. When looking for similar shoes, focus on finding pairs that feature a thick, multi-layered sole and an exaggerated profile.
Look for design elements such as oversized outsoles, mixed materials (like leather, mesh, and suede), and bold color combinations. These features contribute to the avant-garde aesthetic that Balenciaga is known for.
Fit
For styles like the Speed, a key characteristic is the sock-like fit, which offers both comfort and a sleek look. If this is the type of sneaker you’re after, prioritize designs that feature a stretchy, breathable knit upper that wraps around your foot snugly. Other options, like the Track, have a generous, chunkier fit that can accommodate wide feet.
Features
Consider styles with innovative or eye-catching details, like reflective accents, embossed textures, or unusual lacing systems. These features can help you achieve the luxurious, high-end look associated with designer sneakers, adding an element of exclusivity to your footwear collection.
How We Chose
To find shoes like Balenciaga, I closely analyzed the options in my own closet and noted down key design elements that are universally loved. I also sought help from fellow footwear enthusiasts, as well as friends and family, to create a shortlist of 30 styles.
By using the below criteria, I was eventually able to settle on six standout styles.
Similarities: I focused on identifying key design elements that define the brand’s distinctive style, from the chunky silhouette of the Triple S sneakers to the sleek, sock-like fit of the Speed. I looked for options that shared these standout characteristics and captured the essence of Balenciaga’s eye-catching aesthetic.
Quality: Quality was a crucial factor in selecting styles that could match the premium feel of Balenciaga sneakers. I evaluated each shoe’s construction, materials, and durability to ensure that they offered long-lasting wear and comfort.
Price: I aimed to find not only shoes that look like Balenciaga but also options that offered similar style and quality at more accessible price points. I compared the cost of each contender against its design features and construction to determine its value for money. Although Balenciaga sneakers are known for their luxury price tags, I sought alternatives that provided the same fashion-forward look without the hefty cost.
Customer Feedback: Customer feedback played a significant role in determining the best Balenciaga alternatives, providing insights into styles that I hadn’t already owned myself. I reviewed online reviews and ratings to gather information about comfort, fit, durability, and overall user experience. Sneakers that consistently received positive feedback were given higher consideration.
Why Trust Us?
Billy Webb is a seasoned menswear writer with more than 10 years’ experience in the fashion industry. Known for his deep understanding of style and trends, he has written extensively on footwear and apparel for many leading fashion publications.
As a passionate sneaker enthusiast and collector, Billy owns several pairs of Balenciaga sneakers, giving him first-hand knowledge of their unique design and appeal. His expertise in menswear, combined with his personal love for kicks, make him a trusted authority in identifying shoes that look like Balenciaga.
Whether searching for slippers with support or comfy loafers, Billy has insights that are invaluable for readers seeking stylish and affordable footwear options.
Final Verdict
The New Balance 9060 sneakers are my go-to choice when it comes to shoes that look like Balenciaga. Reminiscent of the brand’s bold style without breaking the bank, they’re a brilliant choice that impresses with their exaggerated soles and dynamic mix of materials. Perfectly blending retro and modern elements, they seriously impress as they give off a high-fashion vibe that’s unique and just the right amount of quirky.
FAQ
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If you’re looking for shoes that offer a similar style to Balenciaga sneakers without the hefty price tag, consider options with features like a chunky silhouette and bold design elements.
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Balenciaga shoes are generally known for their bold, avant-garde style that combines luxury fashion with a streetwear edge. They often feature exaggerated, chunky silhouettes, especially evident in models like the Triple S, though they also have sleeker options such as the sock-like Speed.
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Yes, Balenciaga is a luxury brand known for its high-end fashion and innovative designs. Founded in 1917 by Spanish designer Cristóbal Balenciaga, the label has a long history of pushing the boundaries of fashion through forward-thinking styles and cutting-edge craftsmanship.
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Billy is a content specialist and social media manager. His portfolio includes articles for publications such as British GQ, Esquire and Men’s Health. A self-confessed lover of luxury streetwear, he admits to an unhealthy obsession for baseball caps and high-end sneakers.