Are Sneakers Business Casual? Everything You Need to Know

Are you wondering if sneakers are business casual? You’re not alone. In fact, many people wonder if sneakers are appropriate in a business setting.

Sneakers are a stylish footwear option that are much more comfortable than a pair of dress shoes. As workplace attire has become more relaxed, it can be confusing to know what shoes to wear with business casual attire.

Which raises the question…

Are Sneakers Business Casual?

Sneakers are considered to be business casual in certain settings. Depending on the workplace, business casual attire can vary. For example, sneakers are appropriate business casual footwear at most tech companies. In contrast, sneakers are probably too casual to be worn if you work at a bank or law office.

Always adjust your clothing and shoes to the work environment and what other employees are wearing. However, these days many workplaces have become more casual and wearing nice, clean sneakers can look great with a business casual outfit.

There are also hybrid shoes that combine the comfort of sneakers and the style of dress shoes, which are perfect for the office. This footwear style is a great choice for business casual outfits.

Tip: If you need clarification on what sneakers are acceptable in your workplace, look at the company’s social media pictures. This will give you a good idea of what shoes are acceptable to be worn to the office.

In this post I share the best business casual sneaker styles. In addition you’ll find helpful tips and answers to frequently asked questions about what is appropriate when it comes to shoes in the workplace.

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Different Styles of Business Casual Sneakers

If you’re looking for a pair of business casual sneakers, then it’s important to know the different footwear options.

These sneaker recommendations are a great alternative to dress shoes and they are perfect for daily wear.

Here are the 5 different styles of business casual sneakers that can be worn in the workplace:

1. Leather Sneakers

Leather sneakers are great business casual shoes that can be worn with dress pants, a button-down shirt and a sport coat. Leather shoes are the perfect balance between casual sneakers and formal shoes.

If you’re looking for an affordable pair of leather sneakers, check out the Cole Haan Crosscourt, Lacoste Carnaby Pro or the Adidas Stan Smith. These shoes cost under $100 and they are perfect for wearing in a business casual setting.

If you want a luxury pair of leather sneakers, consider the Gucci Ace sneakers or the Saint Laurent Andy sneakers.

2. Low-Top Sneakers

When it comes to casual footwear, low-top sneakers are a great option. Among businesses, the company cultures are shifting to allow their employees to wear comfortable low-top shoes.

Nowadays, brands like Steve Madden, Allbirds and Veja have released elegant low-top sneakers that can be worn to work. Wearing low-top sneakers to work is becoming more common in the workplace than wearing a pair of dress shoes.

When you’re shopping for low-top sneakers, it’s important to pay attention to the materials. A pair of canvas or high-quality suede shoes look very nice in the workplace.

If you plan on buying a pair of white sneakers for the office, make sure that they are easy to clean. It can be very noticeable when white shoes are dirty, and it looks unprofessional.

3. High-Top Sneakers

High-top sneakers are a very popular footwear option for the workplace. High-tops have a professional appearance and they have a very stylish look.

If you’re looking for a pair of high-top sneakers, check out the Eddie Bauer Storm Sneaker, Converse Chuck 70’s or chelsea boots. These are comfortable footwear choices that can be worn in any casual work environment.

If you’re trying to put together a casual outfit for work, try wearing high-top sneakers with a pair of denim jeans and a button-up shirt. This business casual look will be comfortable and it’s appropriate office attire.

4. Slip-On Sneakers

If you’re looking for a pair of sneakers that you can wear daily to the office, then check out slip-on sneakers. Slip-on sneakers are a comfortable choice and they’re a great way to level up you personal style.

There are different options of slip-on shoes, ranging from loafers, to Sperry boat shoes, and Vans.

If you’re looking for a pair of sneakers that can be worn in a professional setting, then try a pair of Loafers. Loafers are a great alternative to dress shoes and they look very elegant.

For a casual wear, Sperry’s and Vans are a great choice. However, these shoes should only be worn in a very casual environment.

5. Athletic Sneakers

Wearing athletic sneakers to work is pretty common in the tech industry and among businesses that allow casual attire in the workplace. If your workplace culture and dress code is casual, gym shoes can be fine.

If you want to wear a pair of athletic sneakers to work, it’s important to make sure that they are clean and in really good condition. Showing up to work with a dirty pair of shoes is unprofessional, even if your work has a casual dress code.

If you’re looking for a comfortable pair of athletic shoes that can be worn to work, check out the ON Cloud 5, New Balance 574, or the Lululemon Blissfeel.

Is it Professional to Wear Sneakers to Work?

Wearing sneakers to work largely depends on the company culture, industry, and specific dress code policies. In some creative or tech-related industries, sneakers are more acceptable as part of a casual or business casual dress code.

However, in more traditional or formal corporate environments, sneakers may not be seen as professional attire.

Tip: If you’re aiming for a professional look, wearing formal footwear such as dress shoes, loafers, or oxfords is a good idea.

Can I Wear Nike as Business Casual?

Although, Nike is known for its athletic footwear and sportswear, the brand offers a range of business casual shoe designs. Recently, Nike has introduced lifestyle and casual shoe models that have a sleeker and less sporty appearance. 

For example, Nike offers models like the Nike Air Max line, which combines athletic technology with a more fashion-forward design. There is also the Nike Court Royale 2, which has a clean and minimalistic aesthetic that can complement business casual outfits.

Are Air Jordans Business Casual?

Air Jordans are not considered business casual shoes. Since Air Jordans are primarily athletic shoes designed for basketball performance and lifestyle wear. 

While they can be a stylish and fashionable footwear option, they are generally not considered appropriate for traditional business casual attire.

However, there are variations of business casual across different workplaces. It’s always a goo idea to follow your company’s dress code policy or consult with your supervisor or HR department for specific guidance.

Can I Wear Sneakers For An Interview?

No, wearing sneakers for an interview is not a good idea. Wearing sneakers to a job interview can give the impression of a more casual or laid-back approach, which may not align with the professional image that most employers look for. 

Of course, this can vary depending on the job, industry and dress code. However, even if the workplace is business casual, it’s best to avoid wearing sneakers to your interview.

It’s best to research the company’s culture and dress code expectations. Use your judgment to determine whether sneakers are the appropriate footwear option for the interview or if it will make you look unprofessional. 

If in doubt, it’s always safer to choose dress shoes to make a positive first impression.

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Final Thoughts on Are Sneakers Business Casual?

When it comes to choosing the best shoes for business casual attire, it’s a good idea to find the balance between comfort, style, and professionalism. While company cultures may vary, there are several shoe options that are suitable for business casual environments.