There’s probably a good debate we could have about what really is a platform sneaker. To me this kind of is all-encompassing on anything that’s either platform or chunky that’s a sneaker or athleisure shoe.
In my closet, my platform Converse are the shoes I can’t get enough of. This is ironic since I used to HATE Jack Purcell growing up. And while I did finally embrace a classic Converse, it’s the platform ones I live in. So much so, I finally grabbed a pair in black and even now live in the high-top platforms too.
I love a platform or chunky sneaker for a few reasons. They add a little bit of height which I’ll take any day with my short legs to help balance me out. And the height doesn’t mean discomfort (looking at you high heels…).
But they’re also so great to pair with so many things. From jeans, to trousers, to dresses and shorts, they truly go with everything. I find myself reaching for my platform sneakers more than anything else in my closet when completing an outfit.
If you haven’t tried this trend yet, I’m begging you to give it a try. It’s one of my favorite trends and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. These are some of my favorite chunky platform sneakers and athleisure shoes to style for any season.
10 Best Platform Sneakers For Women
Platform Converse
My tried and true favorite platform sneaker. I live in these and swear by them. They’re insanely comfortable and work with just about anything and everything I can imagine in my own closet. I’ve worn them with jeans, shorts, dresses, midi skirts and more.
I’ve styled them in the summer and in the fall. Plus, they’re my go-to travel shoe because they’re so versatile but also so comfortable. PS I wear these socks with them. They won’t budge! I used to always go sockless with them until more recently.
The Converse brand also has tons of great options in a platform version. From their platform high top Converse, to classic low tops, and all sorts of styles in between. You can browse ALL their platform options here.
Vince Warren Platform Slipon
Some people really prefer a slip-on version for their everyday sneaker. So I’m including these Vince ones that I think are the best option. Sure, Vans makes a solid slip-on too. But these feel a bit more elevated and nicer than the canvas Vans. They also come in a lace-up version.
VANS Old Skool Platforms
A classic street style sneaker that is always in style. These now come in a platform similar to the Converse. I feel like you’re either a Converse or Vans person. I’m definitely a Converse person, but these Vans are super cute and a great option.
New Balance 327 Classic Trainers
I was #influenced to buy these from Helena of Brooklyn Blonde. I’ve always loved a New Balance sneaker, but these are a chunkier version of the classics and have such a cool vibe to them. While they’re not super duper platform sneakers, they have a thick chunky gummy sole that is very cool!
They come in a few colorway options and I got the grey. But now wishing I snagged the navy! These have a cool angular sole and a chunky wrap-around heel design with a textured gummy sole.
Voile Blanche Maran Sneakers
I stumbled onto these more designer-inspired platform sneakers and had to share them. I am obsessed with the colors, the lines, everything. They’re made in Italy with incredible craftsmanship with performance materials. Pair these with a pretty dress for early fall, or jeans for a more casual look.
Madewell Trainers
These are one of my favorite chunky sneakers in my closet. They come in so many fun colorways to choose from. Whether you want to go more neutral, or bold and printed, they’ve got so many color combinations to fit any color palette. They’re also insanely comfortable.
I wrote a big review of the Madewell Trainers here because I love them so much! I’ve worn mine with jumpsuits and even just jeans and a tee.
I love that these are more eco-friendly and have recycled mesh and rubber for a more sustainable shoe. At just $98, these are great quality and affordable platform sneaker that I promise you’ll love as much as I do!
Adidas Gazelle Platform Sneakers
So many different Adidas options when it comes to a platform sneaker. The popular Gazelle comes in a platform which is a fun twist on it.
These feel like a fresh update to the Adidas Classic Superstars that we all wore in the early 2010s.
Fila Disruptor Sneakers
I feel like Fila really put the dad sneaker on the map a few years ago. They really nailed the whole 80s throwback dad sneaker that we all know and remember from our childhood. But in a new fresh way. These leather sneakers come in a few different colorways and styles but the Disruptor is definitely the most popular. And at only $70, they’re an ideal price point for giving a trend a try without breaking the bank. I love these paired with more feminine pieces to give that cool juxtaposition of feminine and masculine vibes.
Superga Platforms
Supergas are a classic white athleisure shoe that’s been around for years. But they now have a platform! This trend is so hot that even this classic brand had to go platform too. Choose from white, black and even fun tie-dye options too. You can’t go wrong with this classic footwear brand.
Alexander McQueen Sneakers
The most expensive designer options in today’s list, but I’ve seen these in person on people and they are so cute. If you’re willing to spend several hundred on Golden Goose, you may want to check these Alexander McQueen platform chunky sneakers out. I just love them. They’re like a really cool, more chic version of the All-Star Adidas. They also come in some fun colorways and the grey suede are so cute!
Shop The Post
Photo by Hannah Lozano