Top Five Men's Sneakers for 'Desk to Drinks' That You Can Grab Right Now

Okay, first things first - Yes, I know, if you work in finance, or a law practice, or something similar, this probably doesn't apply to you—unless your idea of casual Friday involves a daring switch from oxfords to loafers.

But for the rest of the world, who strives for a seamless transition from keyboard warrior to cocktail connoisseur without a stop at home, this list is for you.

We’re mainly looking for three things here:

• ONE - Footwear that is not loud, with muted tones and hues that can blend with a mix of outfits.

• TWO - Footwear that is COMFORTABLE. Yes, if you’re going to be wearing these all day and into the après, you don’t want your dogs to be barking, a la Kevin Malone.

• THREE - STYLE. What else is there to say?

We're diving into a very specific hybrid territory: footwear that can swim in multiple pools and blend the boundary between professional and street-smart. This isn't about finding a middle ground; it's about owning both lanes.

Whether your office dress code is more 'come as you are' or 'business casual with a wink', I've scouted the top 5 men's options that will have you covered. Let’s go:

#5 - Teddy Santis New Balance 990v4 Made in USA 'Forest Green'

Photo Credit: GOAT

The retail on these was very high (as is custom for the premium materials, details, and overall quality of product you get with the New Balance Made In USA line) however, you can find these online either for sale at retailers or below retail at secondary marketplaces, like GOAT.

Beyond the initial price, these have a lot going for them. Blending bright white with a subtle cream and gorgeous forest green, this leather-based 990v4 brings a sophistication and class that is fitting for the office and style that suits the social scene. Can’t go wrong with these.

#4 - Kith Classics for adidas Originals Superstar

Photo Credit: KITH

An elevated take on a 55-Year-Old absolute classic; the adidas shell toe.

“With a premium leather upper and a signature Superstar rubberized shell toe and silhouette”, KITH’s take on this wardrobe essential is perfectly designed for the office and for impressing when you’re bar hopping.

#3 - Air Jordan 1 Retro Low '85 OG 'Neutral Grey'

Photo Credit: GOAT

This low-top version of Michael Jordan's first signature sneaker, in it’s original 1985 cut, fits the mould of an everyday go-to. The kind of shoe you leave by the front door and gravitate toward because it’s as easy to put on as it is to style with any outfit.

These will get the IYKYK head nod from other sneaker heads in the office without drawing any unnecessary or unwanted attention from the audience. Then when Happy Hour rolls around, you can roll right into the bar without skipping a beat.

#2 - HOKA Clifton 9 Triple White

Photo Credit: HOKA

Who doesn’t like a pair of triple-white sneakers?

The most important thing to know about these is that, yes, technically, they’re designed for performance running. HOWEVER, sometimes in life, the best use for certain things is not strictly what they were designed for (see Coca-Cola, Q-tips, or WD-40).

With that, though, these are like walking on clouds; they are probably the most comfortable option on this list; they’re crispy white (so go with everything) and fit the current trend and popular aesthetic of wearing running shoes casually.

#1 - Air Jordan 3 Retro SE 'Craft - Ivory'

Photo Credit: GOAT

For some, these may be seen as too sporty, but hear me out. These bring the heritage, prestige, and legacy of the iconic Jordan line (*cough* cough, Greatness), but in a very stylish, classy, and subtle way. Plus, with their true-to-size fit and air unit in the back, these will keep you going all day.

These might actually crack my top-5 releases for 2024 at large and are super trendy whilst also being smart and sophisticated. This sneaker owns both lanes, and is perfect for both the office and the bar.

BONUS - as well as being available right now on Nike.com, you can also find them below retail on GOAT.

Honourable Mention

Teddy Santis New Balance 993 Made in USA 'Sea Salt'

Photo Credit: Sole Retriever

This would have been #1 on this list, HOWEVER, it has not yet been released.

**It's also worth nothing that this will be an expensive pair of kicks, $200+ at retail, when they drop.

I can’t say enough about how excited I am for this sneaker and for Season Five of Teddy Santis’ leadership as Creative Director of New Balance Made In USA, in general.

DO YOU SEE THE GUM BOTTOM?!

These look immaculate to me - these also own both lanes.

These are a MUST for me in 2024.

That concludes the list, and blog - do you wear sneakers to the office? If so, let me know what you anchor your fits in!