What Sneakers Do Most Celebrities Wear?
In recent years, sneakers have evolved from simple athletic footwear into powerful symbols of style, status, and cultural influence. No longer confined to the gym or basketball court, sneakers now grace red carpets, fashion runways, and high-end events around the world. At the forefront of this transformation are celebrities—actors, musicians, athletes, and influencers—who not only wear sneakers but often help shape sneaker trends through their choices and collaborations. So, what sneakers do most celebrities wear? The answer lies in a combination of timeless classics, limited-edition releases, luxury crossovers, and exclusive designer partnerships.
One of the most ubiquitous sneaker brands among celebrities is Nike. As one of the largest and most influential sportswear companies globally, Nike has long been a favorite among A-listers. Within Nike’s vast catalog, certain models stand out as celebrity staples. The Air Force 1, first released in 1982, remains a perennial favorite. Known for its clean white leather upper and low-profile silhouette, the Air Force 1 offers a minimalist aesthetic that complements both casual and high-fashion looks. Celebrities like Rihanna, Pharrell Williams, and Hailey Bieber have all been spotted wearing them with everything from jeans to designer dresses.
Even more prominent in the celebrity sphere is the Nike Air Jordan line. Originally designed for basketball legend Michael Jordan, these shoes have transcended sports to become icons of streetwear culture. Variants such as the Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 3, and Air Jordan 4 are frequently seen on stars like Travis Scott, who has his own highly coveted Jordan collaborations. These limited-edition releases often sell out within minutes and command thousands of dollars on resale markets. Kanye West, before his split with Nike, was also known for his deep connection to Jordans, further cementing their place in pop culture.
Another major player in the celebrity sneaker game is Adidas. The brand’s partnership with Kanye West—resulting in the Yeezy line—revolutionized the industry. The Yeezy Boost 350, with its distinctive Primeknit upper and responsive Boost sole, became a global phenomenon. Even after West parted ways with Adidas in 2022, the impact of the Yeezy line continues to be felt. Stars like Kim Kardashian, Bella Hadid, and Justin Bieber were frequently photographed in Yeezys, helping propel the model into mainstream fashion consciousness. The muted colorways, such as “Cream White” and “Core Black,” offered a sleek, modern look that paired effortlessly with a wide range of outfits.
Beyond Nike and Adidas, luxury fashion houses have entered the sneaker arena with impressive results. Brands like Gucci, Balenciaga, and Louis Vuitton now produce high-end sneakers that blend craftsmanship with urban edge. The Balenciaga Triple S, introduced in 2017, sparked the “ugly sneaker” trend with its chunky sole and layered design. Despite (or perhaps because of) its unconventional appearance, it quickly gained favor among celebrities such as Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, and Gigi Hadid. Similarly, Gucci’s Ace sneakers—featuring the brand’s signature horsebit detail and embroidered bees—have become go-to choices for stars seeking a blend of elegance and casual cool.
The rise of collaborative sneaker projects has also played a significant role in shaping celebrity preferences. Artists, designers, and even athletes team up with brands to create unique, limited-run models that generate massive buzz. For example, Travis Scott’s collaboration with Nike has produced several iconic sneakers, including the Air Jordan 1 “Reverse Mocha” and the Air Max 270 React. These releases are often accompanied by elaborate marketing campaigns and pop-up events, drawing fans and celebrities alike. Similarly, Billie Eilish has teamed up with Nike to launch her own Air Force 1 designs, reflecting her personal style and eco-conscious values.
Sneakers from New Balance have also gained traction among celebrities, particularly those favoring a more understated, retro-inspired aesthetic. Models like the New Balance 550 and 327 have been embraced by figures such as Hailey Bieber and Olivia Rodrigo. These shoes offer a nostalgic nod to ’80s and ’90s athletics while maintaining modern comfort and appeal. Their growing popularity reflects a broader trend toward vintage silhouettes and heritage branding in celebrity fashion.
It’s important to note that celebrity sneaker choices are not solely driven by aesthetics—they’re also influenced by personal relationships, brand ambassadorships, and cultural significance. LeBron James, for instance, wears Nike sneakers not just because they perform well on the court, but because he has a lifetime contract with the brand. Likewise, Serena Williams has launched her own sneaker lines under Nike, using footwear as an extension of her personal brand and advocacy for women in sports.
Moreover, sustainability and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important factors. Some celebrities opt for eco-friendly sneakers made from recycled materials or support brands with ethical production practices. Stella McCartney, though not a traditional athlete, has collaborated with Adidas to create vegan, sustainable performance footwear, appealing to environmentally conscious stars.
In conclusion, the sneakers worn by most celebrities reflect a dynamic interplay between function, fashion, exclusivity, and personal identity. While Nike and Adidas dominate the landscape—with classics like the Air Force 1, Air Jordans, and Yeezys leading the pack—luxury brands and emerging collaborations continue to expand the definition of what a “celebrity sneaker” can be. Whether it’s a rare limited edition, a custom-designed pair, or a timeless white leather model, the sneakers celebrities choose often set the tone for global fashion trends. As the line between athletic wear and high fashion continues to blur, one thing is certain: the sneaker will remain a cornerstone of celebrity style for years to come.