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The 20 Best Chunky Sneakers for Men to Rock in 2024

The flyest Nikes, adidas, New Balances, platform chunky sneakers and more

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Balenciaga, The North Face, adidas

So, how do you like your sneaker? Thick. Thicker than a Snicker? Thicker than a bowl of oatmeal? Thicker than... you get it. In case you haven't been paying attention, chunky aka thick sneakers are one of the hottest trends on the block right now when it comes to designer sneakers, and if you haven't gotten in on it, then it's time to change that. Fellas, we're not sure who told you that only women are wearing chunky sneakers, but they were absolutely positively incorrect. We're not going to let you get away with not wearing them anymore, so we've put together a list of the best chunky sneakers for men to rock any and every season with your baggy jeans, turtlenecks and vests in the winter, graphic t-shirts and white tees in the summer, and of course, a sick pair of chinos that's a compliment to the chef.

Chunky platform sneakers like the Balenciaga Triple S ($1100) are catching our eye at the moment along with these eye-catching New Balance chunky sneakers, the 9060 ($149.99), and the adidas OZWEEGO Shoes ($120, $108), which are a groundbreaking technologically-inclined adidas chunky sneaker. The Air VaporMax Plus ($210), is a great Nike chunky sneaker as well that you should consider adding to your list—plus more that are definitely worth a browse.

RELATED: A Look Back at the 15 Best Sneakers of the 2000s

What is a 'chunky sneaker'?

Chunky sneakers aren't a new trend as they've been popular over the past decade, as they've become slightly more modernized in the sense that they kind of used to be reserved for runway wear. Not anymore! We're seeing people wear chunky sneakers casually, on dates, and even upscale events. So what makes a chunky sneaker you might ask? A chunky sneaker is any kind of sneaker that has a beefed up look. Chunky sneakers are just... much bigger than your average sneaker, and you know them when you see them. Here's some selections for you.

The Best Chunky Sneakers, at a Glance:

1. Balenciaga Triple S

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Balenciaga

Best Chunky Sneaker for Men, Overall

  • A Promising Review: "Exactly as shown! The trainers are amazing quality and super comfortable. They can be dressed up or dressed down. If you love chunky trainers, I strongly recommend. I wanted these for ages and now that I have them I wish I didn’t wait so long to make my decision." - Cettire Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Double foam and mesh
  • Sizes: 6 - 12
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

You can wear Balenciaga casually or as Nicki Minaj once said, you can wear Balenciaga to the Phantom of the Opera. Whatever event you choose, the Triple S is a chunky sneaker option that will automatically elevate your outfit. Made with a double foam and mesh upper, the comfort is present in the Triple S thanks to its comfortable midsole, and there are other standout features that make shoe very worthy of its 1,100 asking price including the functional lacing system, and the pull-on tabs in both the back and tongue region of the shoe to help with comfort and putting on/taking off. Comfortable and stylish is always a good combo, and the Triple S provides both.

SHOP NOW AT BALENCIAGA, $1,100

2. The North Face Men’s VECTIV Taraval Shoes

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The North Face

Best Black Chunky Sneaker

  • A Promising Review: "Great shoes especially for flat feet. No special insoles needed." - The North Face Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Synthetic leather and breathable mesh
  • Sizes: 7 - 14
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

The North Face also has a couple of chunky sneakers in their catalog, which makes sense with them primarily being an outdoor brand as thicker shoes are better for outdoor activities. The Men's VECTIV Taraval Shoes were designed in collaboration with The North Face Athlete Team to increase optimization, power, and precision within the shoe. The sneakers also feature TNF's VECTIV construction, which further promotes energy and response time. The abrasion-resistant performance-mesh upper construction adds to the breathability and comfort, making these another option that is both practical and quite stylish as well.

SHOP NOW AT THE NORTH FACE, $125

3. adidas OZWEEGO Shoes

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adidas

Best Athletic Option

  • A Promising Review: "Love the design, looks very futuristic, very comfortable, and also very supportive on the heel, it’s good for people with wide feet." - adidas Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Knit and synthetic leather upper with TPU overlays
  • Sizes: 5 - 14
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

Styled with a 90s and 00s theme, the OZWEEGO is crafted with the comfort for an athlete as it has an EVA midsole and triple-threat cushioning. With that kind of comfort your feet won't hurt at all (in fact it might take away some of your pain), and you can wear them to a workout, or to an event. As we always say—it's all about the options.

SHOP NOW AT ADIDAS, (Was $120, Now $108)

4. Steve Madden POSSESS Off-White

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Steve Madden

Best White Chunky Sneaker

  • A Promising Review: "The shoes are so stylish and comfy." - Adrian, Steve Madden Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Vegan leather and textile upper material
  • Sizes: 7 - 14
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

Steve Madden's POSSESS Chunky Sneakers are a combination of substantial, dynamic, and modern, and are the type of shoe that can be paired with virtually anything. While we selected to showcase the Off-White colorway, there's plenty to choose from including a black and sand option. As far as the general construction of the shoe goes, these are made with vegan leather and textile upper material. Little warning though—the heel is a little bit higher than your average chunky sneaker, which is something to keep in mind if you struggle with shoes that are slightly taller in height. That said, you will be comfortable as these have a synthetic lining on the inner part of the shoe, and a wide molded platform sole to protect the middle part of your foot.

SHOP NOW AT STEVE MADDEN, $109.95

5. Naked Wolfe Slider

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Naked Wolfe

Best Chunky Platform Sneaker

  • A Promising Review: "While we've only tried the women's version of their shoes, we can confidently say that not only are they up their with the most stylish sneakers we've ever worn, but the comfort was bar none." - Jael Rucker, Style Writer at ONE37pm
  • Upper Material: Leather, suede, mesh
  • Sizes: 35 - 41
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

There's plenty of reasons to love these Sliders from Naked Wolfe, one being the unique design that instantly catches your attention. There's also a matter of comfort and construction as these also sport a leather, suede, and mesh upper mixture that allows for breathability and comfort. The placement of the velcro wolfe head on the front tab of the shoe is interesting too as it's the small details that separates this shoe from the pack. We're also quite fond of the moulded 3D rubber side panel moulds that accompany. the shoe as well. The literal definition of couture, this is definitely an attention-grabbing sneaker.

SHOP NOW AT NAKED WOLFE, $270

6. Converse Run Star Motion CX Platform

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Converse
  • A Promising Review: "I've worn these at least 3 days a week for the past 9 months or so and I'm still not over them. They're by far the most comfortable converse I have, with a nice and roomy toe box and good support. The treads have held up great and they still look brand new. " - Converse Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Cotton Canvas
  • Sizes: 3 - 8
  • Style: High top, lace-up

Time to throw a high top sneaker in the mix. While we're used to high tops from Converse, the Run Star Motion CX takes the traditional Converse high top to the next level with its cotton canvas cut and chunky outsole. Primed for comfort with its CX foam insole and lightweight phylon midsole that helps with absorption along with a lugged rubber forefoot and heel that helps with grip and traction, be prepared to get a lot of stares (in a good way of course) as you trot down the street.

SHOP NOW AT CONVERSE, (Was $120, Now $89.87)

7. ASOS Design Chunky Sneakers

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ASOS
  • A Promising Review: "Really happy with it! Matches with a lot of outfits " -ASOS Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Rubber
  • Sizes: 7 - 12
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

While anyone can wear this chunky sneaker by ASOS, the brand is known for accommodating those with wide feet as it can harder to find shoes when your foot is wider. These sneakers have a nice design that's under $70, and are relatively easy to keep clean as well, making them super desirable and a fan favorite amongst ASOS lovers. Cut with rubber, the Chunky Sneakers also come with a padded tongue and cuff, lace-up fastening, and pull tabs to make sliding the shoe on and off easier. Not too shabby for under $70.

SHOP NOW AT ASOS, $64.99

8. APL SUPERFUTURE

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APL
  • A Promising Review: "I got them for travel because I hate having to pack gym shoes. These are comfy for walking around in, they look nice and perform well in the gym. I have flat feet and my insoles fit perfectly. Fit true to size and provide great stability. " -Fabian, APL Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Rubber
  • Sizes: 5 - 16
  • Style: High top, slip-on

Perhaps you don't plan on hooping in your chunky sneakers, but if you are looking for something to play in, check out the APL Superfuture which includes the Load ‘N Launch technology banned by the NBA that helps to increase your vertical leap. The Superfuture is full of other cool technological features like High top TechLoom bootie and the APL FutureFoam midsole—all of which are used to enhance your performance on the court.

SHOP NOW AT APL, $300

9. Vans Customs Dress Blues Sk8-Hi MTE-1 Shoe

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Vans
  • A Promising Review: "They fit perfectly and I can make the laces loose enough to fit my ankle brace! The sole is super comfortable and I don't think I've ever gotten more compliments on a pair of shoes!" -Vans Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Water resistant upper
  • Sizes: 3.5 - 13
  • Style: High top, lace-up

Sticking with the high top theme here, this Customs Dress Blues Sk8-Hi MTE-1 Shoe from Vans are a sleek and versatile look that's great for those looking to wear a statement piece. Aside from the blue and camo green mixture which you don't see a lot of when it comes to color mixing, these shoes also feature a water resistant upper, thermoregulation in the form of the brand's zonal MTE-1 Primaloft insulation which serves to keep your feet warm at all times, and a single-density UltraCush molded EVA footbed that makes sure your always comfortable. Gotta love when it functionality and fashion come together.

SHOP NOW AT VANS, $140

10. Lacoste Men's L-Guard Breaker

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Lacoste
  • A Promising Review: "I’m so overwhelmed by this sneaker…. it is more than I expected!!! The look, the fit, the profile …. all amazing! I hope to purchase more when I can save up enough money! Thank you so much." - Lacoste Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Textile, leather and synthetic uppers | Sizes: 7-12 | Style: Low top, lace-up

These lace-up low tops by Lacoste are worth every single penny of the slightly over $100 you'll spend to get them. A solid balance between athletic and high fashion the L-Guard Breaker answers the call for every adventure with their textile, leather, and synthetic cut and crafting. Also featuring synthetic lining and a rugged sole that allows you to hit the trails seamlessly should that be your forte, the L-Guard Breaker Sneakers are an excellent multipurpose shoe that can be used for anything.

SHOP NOW AT LACOSTE, (Was $155, Now $107.99)

11. Nike Air VaporMax Plus

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Nike
  • A Promising Review: "Honestly the style of the shoe grew on me but certain color ways pop out more, especially the Griffey color scheme which is my favorite so far. I loved the old school Air Max Plus style and at first these VaporMaxes seemed like a semi imaginative but less appealing remix of those. A bit pricey but still happy with my purchase overall. For me I ordered a half size up and they fit perfect. They feel light and supportive. " - Nike Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Cushioned fabric and synthetic materials
  • Sizes: 4 - 14
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

The Nike Air VaporMax Plus blends together VaporMax and the '98 Air Max Plus for a new and improved look that looks forward to the future while paying homage to the past. The floating Spider-Man looking cage is the stand out feature on this shoe, which also comes dressed in a red and black upper (and there are other colorways available in this model as well). Nike notes that this iteration of the VaporMax features the original cage, padded upper and heel logo as showcased on the '98 model, but adds in Nike's VaporMax Air technology for additional comfort. Made with a synthetic upper and a rubber outsole, the VaporMax is a shoe ready for any and everything.

SHOP NOW AT NIKE, (Was $210, Now $134.97)

12. Hoka Clifton 8 Max Cushion Sneaker

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HOKA
  • A Promising Review: "Received my Clifton 8s the next day after they being released and ordered. They look awesome. Went for a quick evening run as they arrived right after I finished my daily lunch run of course. Huge Pros: They are 100% roomier than Clifton 7." - Hoka Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Breathable mesh
  • Sizes: 8.5 - 16
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

Sure Hoka's are made for runners, but you can absolutely wear them when not running as well. The Hoka 8 has received great reviews with the brand improving upon the 7 to make the shoes more comfortable for those with wider feet. You can even wear Hokas to the gym, to run errands, or even as a recovery sneaker. Whatever you choose, rest assured you'll be comfortable as Hoka's are specifically designed to mold to your foot with their responsive midsole and breathable mesh upper. There's multiple colors to choose from as well so have at it.

SHOP NOW AT HOKA, (Was $140, Now $111.99)

13. VEJA Venturi Men's Shoes

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Zappos
  • A Promising Review: "Never heard of this brand, but bought some while in Paris this week! I’ve been wearing them everyday, walking all over the city, so comfortable! I am a size 8 and bought the 39, the fit is perfect" - Zappos Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Polyester Upper
  • Sizes: 8 - 11.5
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

As far as sustainable sneakers go—VEJA makes some of the best in our opinion. This Multico Grey colorway is a neutral enough color to be worn with a good percentage of your closet, but still has eye-catching features such as the teal logo at the quarter mark of the shoe (there's also other colorways to select from as well). Made with a water-repellent suede upper blended together with knit material, TPU accents, and a well-cushioned midsole, we rock with it for sure (and you should too). Of note: Zappos recommends sizing down with the Venturi as they tend to run on the bigger side.

SHOP NOW AT ZAPPOS, (Was $205, Now $164)

14. SOREL Kinetic Breakthru Tech Lace Sneaker

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Amazon
  • A Promising Review: "Very comfortable and light weight. Definitely a great buy." - Amazon Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Synthetic and textile material mixes
  • Sizes: 7 - 15
  • Style: High top, lace-up

If hitting the outdoors, Sorel's Kinetic Breakthrough Sneakers are fly and flashy while not straying from its technical features. Note: While the shoes themselves are waterproof, the laces are not. Just something to keep in mind in case you planned on wearing during a rainy day. Other than that, the Kinetic Breakthrough Sneakers will have you good to go as they are made with an eco-friendly textile topcover, boost a PU-like EVA footbed for comfort, and have molded rubber pods in high abrasion zones for durability. Plus, they look great in motion we might add.

SHOP NOW AT AMAZON, $87.98

15. New Balance 9060

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New Balance
  • A Promising Review: "Just got these, and wore them for a full day of errands and Christmas shopping and I can’t recommend them enough. Really cute with crew white socks, and super comfortable. I recommend them for casual/athleisure (great for travel too!) and order them in your normal size ." - New Balance Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Mesh upper with pigskin suede overlays | Sizes: 4 - 10
  • Style: Low top, lace up

If "dad sneakers" are the goal for your overall look, who better than New Balance? No seriously, who better than New Balance? A classic durable shoe cut with rubber that withstands the test of time and looks even fresher with wear is a shoe that we'll always love. Also accompanying the 9060 is New Balance's dual-density midsole that has their ABZORB and SBS cushioning, and a translucent CR device at the heel, which ensures optimal comfort at all times. Gotta love the 9060's.

SHOP NOW AT NEW BALANCE, $149.99

16. FILA Men's MB Shoes

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Journeys
  • A Promising Review: "Bought these as a gift for my son. My husband said they remind him of the movie Space Jam and I ordered a pair for him." - Journeys Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Leather
  • Sizes: 7 - 12
  • Style: High top, lace-up

Behold FILA. The kings of the chunky sneaker. Sometimes you're just in the mood for a throwback vintage vibe, and these shoes fit the bill with its colorful graffiti/mural vibe. Made with a leather upper material that has perforated underlays along with other helpful features like the mesh tongue, padded collar, and durable rubber outsole, this is a retro throwback sneaker sure to get you some compliments. Very 90s ya digg?

SHOP NOW AT JOURNEYS, $39.98

17. Versace Men's Greca Labyrinth

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Versace
  • A Promising Review: "Super sick and cool sneaker that is lightweight. The shoes are very comfortable too and the quality is top notch" - Jael Rucker, Style Writer at ONE37pm
  • Upper Material: 80% Nylon 20% Elastane
  • Sizes: 40 - 47
  • Style: Lace-up, low top

If you want a pair of chunky sneakers that immediately has all eyes on you, then these Greca Lab Sneakers from Versace are the ones that will have you feeling photoshoot fresh, looking like wealth, and about to call the paparazzi on yourself. Made with a nylon/elastane blend, the Greca Lab Sneakers also feature a textured rubber cap toe, a webbing pull-loop, and Versace's Signature Greek key rubber midsole amongst other callouts. A $649 shoe well worth investing in if we're keeping it a buck.

SHOP NOW AT SSENSE, $649

18. Balmain Leather and Suede Bold Low Top Trainers

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Neiman Marcus
  • A Promising Review: "Even more impressive in person. Quality and comfort. This is my first pair of chunky sneakers so it might take me a while to get used to them but so far I love them! " - Neiman Marcus Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Leather and Suede
  • Sizes: 40 - 46
  • Style: Low top, lace-up

These B-Bold sneakers from Balmain blend the world's of subtlety and extravagant together nicely. Craftily made with leather and suede, these shoes are luxury with a high fashion outsole, but still simple enough to be worn casually. Not only that, but they also fit true to size as well, and are supremely comfortable in part because of their padded midsole. Every step is a comfy and stylish one, which is one of the many reasons you should consider copping.

SHOP NOW AT NEIMAN MARCUS, $995

19. Palladium Pampa Hi-Recraft

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Palladium
  • A Promising Review: "Great boot with style and comfort" - Palladium Reviewer
  • Upper Material: Organic cotton
  • Sizes: 3 - 12
  • Style: High Top, lace-up

Sustainably made with organic cotton in the upper and sockliner along with 15% recycled rubber and Die cut EVA in the outsole, the Pampa Hi Re-Craft from Palladium is something of a mixture between a sneaker and a boot with its high top lace up construction and overall sneaker design. A vegan shoe that also has eyelets, a heel loop, and a tongue loop that's designed in what Palladium refers to as a "futuristic mix of fabrics and textures and styles," the Hi Re-Craft is a sneaker that can be worn in the year 2024 or the year 2034. Up to you here.

SHOP NOW AT PALLADIUM, $110

20. Represent Clo Bully Sneaker

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Represent Clo

The Bully Sneaker from Represent Clo is a representation of a brand that's put a lot of time and energy into the small details. Features like the ballistic nylon mesh upper, complex stitching, and terry towelling lining are part of what makes the Bully Sneakers from other chunky sneakers are on the market, and what really separates them from others is the incredibly thick laces these shoes are made one, which really serves to the highlight the overall chunky factor of the shoe. Multiple colors are available along with many different sizes, so there's plenty to choose from here.

SHOP NOW AT REPRESENT CLO, $330

FAQs about chunky sneakers:

Here are some frequently asked questions about chunky sneakers:

Are chunky sneakers still in style in 2024?

Chunky sneakers are indeed still in style in the year 2024. In fact, lots of chunky sneakers and platform shoes in general were spotted during last year's fashion week shows (which would be for 2024) amongst the models. The quickest way to know if something is going to be trending/style is to see what brands/designers are creating for their upcoming collections. Chunky sneakers are also quite popular on TikTok, which is another great place to head for fashion tips.

How should I choose chunky sneakers?

Choosing chunky sneakers is a relatively easy process as it mostly comes down to your personal style. What you should keep in mind, however, is the size of the heel height as you don't want to struggle walking in them, how heavy the shoes are as chunky shoes tend to not be as lightweight as others, and if the shoes run big/small. Most websites tell you exactly how a shoe is supposed to fit, but you can also read the user reviews as well for more information.

How do I style chunky sneakers?

Seeing as though chunky sneakers take up a good amount of attention by themselves, you'll want to keep your outfit simple so that you don't take away from your shoes. Simple black leather pants and jeans are some suggestions for chunky sneakers. Chunky sneakers can also work really well men's skirts as they provide the ultimate contrast.

What's a good pair of white chunky sneakers?

Our top choice for white chunky sneakers are the POSSESS Sneakers for Steve Madden as they are a pure white color with no additional designs/color present, are super stylish in terms of their design and versatility, are comfortable (which is the most important factor), and are affordably priced.

Why Trust ONE37pm:

ONE37pm has been writing sneaker reviews since our inception in 2018, and I personally have been writing products reviews in style for over two years. We've worked with and tested many of the brands on this list, and we vetted the selections we haven't personally tried on with a wide range of user reviews.

RELATED: The 32 Best Men's Socks: A Pair For Any Occasion and Budget

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