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Buck Mason

14 Best Canvas Sneakers for Men in 2024, According to Style Experts

These no-fuss kicks are having a major moment right now.

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Any true sneaker stalwart knows that canvas sneakers are more than mere wardrobe essentials; they are the undisputed MVPs of everyday footwear. Unrivaled in ease and versatility, these sneakers are the unsung heroes of your shoe rack, effortlessly adapting to any scenario. Need a reliable go-to for your morning commute? Slip on those canvas kicks. Hitting up an after-work happy hour? Canvas sneakers are the low-profile paring to accompany that gin and tonic. Lacing up for a first date? Your canvas sneakers say you put in the effort on the fit without trying too hard.

Pair them with chinos, jeans, shorts, hell, even a suit and you're ready for whatever the day throws at you. We could sing our praises about canvas sneakers until the end of time, but we've decided to let our fashion experts demonstrate how versatile they are instead. They've meticulously curated a list of the 14 best canvas sneakers on the market, tirelessly testing and reviewing a range of brands—from Cariuma to Gucci—so that you can kick any outfit up a notch.

best throwback canvas sneakers

Buck Mason Moonstar Deck Shoes

Moonstar Deck Shoes
$158 at Buck Mason
Pros
  • Afterpay is available for checkout
  • Come in four colors
Cons
  • Can run large

Crafted in Kurume, Japan, these Buck Mason sneakers offer a fresh reinterpretation of the classic California deck shoe. Constructed from herringbone twill, they boast vulcanized and siped soles that ensure nonslip safety, maximum flexibility, and superior comfort.

One tester said, "I love how versatile this style is. They remind me of a modern version of Converse's Chuck Taylors."

Colors4
Sizes5-12
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Allbirds Canvas Pipers

Canvas Pipers
Pros
  • Versatile enough to wear from season to season
  • Can be thrown in the washing machine
Cons
  • Some buyers say they need more cushion

Allbirds is known for creating sustainable, comfortable shoes, and its Canvas Pipers are no exception. We love this option because it's a polished version of the classic sneaker, light, easy to wear, and great for travel. Plus, the cotton canvas material is warm-weather friendly, so your dogs can stay cool and breezy wherever you go.

One buyer said, "These shoes look great, and I can wear them with a wide variety of outfits."

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Cariuma Hokusai Sneakers

Hokusai Sneakers
Pros
  • Sustainable construction
  • Comfortable and easy to wear
Cons
  • Preorder only

In collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, Cariuma created the ultimate sneaker for any aesthete. Based on the works of Katsushika Hokusai, one of the most acclaimed and influential artists of all time—his paintings and drawings often featured Japanese nature and culture—this style is the epitome of living an artful life.

One buyer said, "Cariuma canvas sneakers are super versatile shoes, I want a pair in every color."

ColorsMulti
Sizes5-13
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best sporty canvas sneakers

Nike Court Legacy Sneakers

Court Legacy Sneakers
Now 17% Off
Pros
  • No break-in period
  • Cushioned footbed
Cons
  • Can run small

What better way to embrace the tennis-core trend than with a pair of Nike's Court Legacy Sneakers? Constructed of versatile canvas with a retro Swoosh design, this lace-up is the ideal blend of sport and fashion, all bundled up in a comfy, street-worthy set of kicks.

One tester said, "I love the clean and classic look of these sneakers; plus, they're super comfortable, so I feel like I could stay in them all day."

ColorsWhite/Black
Sizes8-13
best designer canvas sneakers

Gucci Monogrammed Sneakers

Monogrammed Sneakers
Pros
  • Elevate any outfit
  • Contrasting green heel tabs
Cons
  • Pricier than other options

Let's be honest: If there's one pair of designer shoes worth your investment, it's Gucci's Ace Sneakers. First launched in 2006, this style quickly garnered a massive cult following, with fans including Elton John and Chance the Rapper. Since then, Gucci has created multiple iterations. This particular version features coated-canvas jacquard woven fabric with the iconic GG Supreme monogram and is finished with the brand's signature striped webbing.

One tester said, "If this doesn't become the most worn shoe in your closet, I would be shocked."

Colors2
Sizes6-12
best minimalist canvas sneakers

Todd Snyder Catchball Sneakers

Catchball Sneakers
Pros
  • Gum outsole
  • Comfortable fit
Cons
  • Can sell out quickly

These Todd Snyder sneakers are inspired by the classic athletic shoes of the '50s and '60s. They feature a sleek, low-profile silhouette, classic canvas uppers, a sturdy vulcanized construction, and a comfortable Ortholite insole. They're an everyday choice that you can wear on or off the court (this style was first popularized by basketball players) and will keep your feet supported and comfortable.

One buyer said, "The minimalist feel of this sneaker was a major selling point for me, and they look just as good in person as they do online."

Colors4
Sizes8-13
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best breathable canvas sneakers

SeaVees Hermosa Sneakers

Hermosa Sneakers
Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • Come in 8 color options
Cons
  • Can run small

Made with super-durable materials and an extra-plush footbed so you can cruise in comfort, the Hermosa sneaker is an iconic skate shoe reimagined. It comes with airflow channels for cooling comfort, a bouncy power-grip outsole made from recycled rubber, and memory-foam inserts. These shoes will make you want to ride down the coast on your favorite board, Dogg Face vibing to Fleetwood Mac style—no cranberry juice required.

One buyer said, "Love the fit and feel. The canvas uppers breathe well and the recycled soles are good for walking around town in."

Colors8
Sizes7-16
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Polo Ralph Lauren Keaton Sneakers

Keaton Sneakers
Pros
  • Rounded toe
  • Lace-up front
Cons
  • Hard to spot-clean

With an embossed pony logo, an affordable price point, and an EVA footbed, these Polo Ralph Lauren sneakers are a standout in the mix. Pair them with your favorite jeans and a button-down for a relaxed vibe or with some slacks and a polo for a more done-up fit. Oh, and they're available on Prime, which means you can order today and start looking better by tomorrow.

One buyer said, "These shoes look great, and I got a ton of compliments when I wore them!"

Colors24
Sizes7-15
best comfortable canvas sneakers

Drake's Wakouwa Trainers

Wakouwa Trainers
Pros
  • Padded insole for arch support
  • Anti-slip safety outsole
Cons
  • Pricier than other options

If you're the type of guy who likes shoes but doesn't like to wear shoes, then these trainers by Drake's are for you. Thanks to the crimped rubber sole, they're made to feel akin to bare feet, meaning you'll never feel constricted. Plus, they're crafted with an American-made canvas upper and offer exceptional comfort, enhanced arch support, and an asymmetrically curved sole typically found in orthopedic footwear.

One tester said, "These are a true footwear staple that can easily be paired with anything. Not to mention the burnt orange color is simply striking."

Colors3
Sizes5-11.5
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best casual canvas sneakers

Vans Core Classics

Core Classics
Pros
  • Cotton drill lining for breathability
  • Die-cut EVA insert for comfort
Cons
  • Can take a while to break in

Vans's roots are firmly entrenched in SoCal surf and skate style, but its Core Classic shoes are loved everywhere. Crafted with vulcanized construction, they have a limited-down profile that offers a flexible feel, a gum-rubber outsole with a signature waffle tread that provides superior grip, and a clean and classic vibe.

One buyer said, "These are the true old-school Vans. You had a pair before. They run true to size and are as comfortable as ever."

Colors9
Sizes3.5-16
best overall canvas sneakers

Converse Chuck '90s Sport Sneakers

Chuck '90s Sport Sneakers
Pros
  • Color-pop suede ollie patch adds a luxe touch
  • Ornate stitching
Cons
  • Can run large

Ah, the '90s. Friends was airing in primetime. Nirvana was playing on the radio. And if we had to bet, you probably were wearing these exact shoes. Inspired by the iconic basketball and skate shoes of the Y2K era, these Chucks are still as good as ever. Their premium canvas upper gives you exceptional durability, while their OrthoLite cushioning makes them extra comfy. So while some things have changed over the past 30-plus years, we're glad these shoes haven't.

One tester said, "The vintage detailing makes me feel incredibly nostalgic and like I am being transported back to a simpler time."

ColorsPapyrus/Egret/Toadstool Tan
Sizes3-13
best colorful canvas shoes

Sperry CVO Sneakers

CVO Sneakers
Pros
  • Flat heel
  • Lace-up style
Cons
  • Not machine washable

Meet the original deck sneaker that started it all (well, all of Sperry, that is). Known as the world's first boat shoe, the CVO sneakers are developed with premium textile uppers, vulcanized construction with secure bonding between uppers and outsoles, and razor-cut Wave-Siping technology that delivers top-notch wet/dry traction.

One buyer said, "They have a great fit and are very comfortable."

Colors7
Sizes4-13
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best high-top canvas sneakers

P.F. Flyers Center HI Sneakers

Center HI Sneakers
Pros
  • A best seller since 1944
  • Have an OrthoLite foam footbed
Cons
  • Not as breathable as other options

Remember in the movie The Sandlot, when Benny "the Jet" Rodriguez had to get his baseball back from the neighbor's junkyard dog? Well, did you know that he used P.F. Flyers to do it? And while we can't guarantee that you'll run as fast as he did, we can guarantee you'll look just as cool. These Center HI sneakers feature a mid-cut upper, a distinctive ribbed toe guard, a rubber logo patch, and a durable rubber outsole that makes them ready for any occasion (even backyard shenanigans).

One tester said, "I love how these sneakers combine the old-school look of the originals with new-school construction and materials."

ColorsDark Sapphire
Sizes4.5-15
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Adidas Daily Sneakers

Daily Sneakers
Pros
  • Machine washable
  • Flexible materials
  • Come in 17 colors
Cons
  • Can run tight

A fresh take on a modern classic (which seems to be the theme when it comes to canvas shoes), these Adidas sneakers can be put through the wringer and still come out on top. They're durable, versatile, and an officially licensed OrthoLite product. And while we love the navy-blue option, if you don't, that's no problem—because they happen to come in 16 other stylish colors.

One buyer said, "I have been so impressed with these because they have truly been put through the worst and are still going strong. I've worn these in rain, snow, mud, yard work, and through two house remodels."

Colors17
Sizes6.5-14

How to Choose the Best Canvas Sneakers

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Here are a few key things to take into consideration when deciding which canvas sneakers are best for you.

Comfort: Ensure the sneakers provide good arch support and cushioning and fit well. If you find a style that you like but aren't sure about the level of support they provide, you can always grab a pair of Fulton inserts for extra stability.

Size and Fit: The right sneaker should have enough room for your toes to move but not so much space that your feet slide.

Sole and Construction: Choose a sturdy rubber sole and well-constructed seams. A vulcanized sole will also add extra durability, which many options on this list have!

Purpose: Think about where and how often you will wear them, ensuring they meet your lifestyle needs. There's a big difference between the guy who plans to wear these sneakers skateboarding and the guy who just wants a new pair of office shoes.

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How We Chose the Best Canvas Sneakers

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In our pursuit of the best canvas sneakers for men, our Esquire style editors and reviewers extensively tested a variety of styles and brands, from old-school favorites like Vans to newcomers like Cariuma.

Our meticulous evaluation focused on fit, comfort, construction, price point, versatility, support, cushioning, and breathability. We ensured no detail was overlooked, so we also scrutinized each sneaker's durability during extended wear and assessed arch support during activities like walking. The result? A definitive guide to the best canvas sneakers for men in 2024.

Why You Can Trust Esquire

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We're not going to say something is great unless it's actually great. Every product in Esquire's roundups is carefully curated by our fashion and e-commerce teams.

When it comes to the best canvas sneakers, you can rest assured that we're hand-selecting styles that we've personally tested, tried, and loved, along with styles that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse for their own wear. We've had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these canvas sneakers are the ones that are simply the best.

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