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High/Low: Designer Sneakers and Their Affordable Counterparts

Can't afford luxe kicks? Opt for these instead.

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You can never have too many pairs of sneakers at your disposal. Whether you have the means to splurge on every pair of designer sneakers that drop from luxe brands, or you'd rather have that same look and have some money left in your pocket, we've found the perfect the perfect solution for every budget. For the ballers, we've got the coolest kicks from brands like Lanvin, Balmain, and Givenchy, and for the guys looking to save some cash, we've got great options from favorites like adidas, Topman, and Converse.

Looking awesome doesn't always have to mean dropping serious dough. And while it's always a good investment to put your money where your wardrobe is, there's no shame in skimping on a cop every now and then. Not everything you wear has to be by a recognized designer. Besides, with other brands and big stores taking a cue from buzzed-about labels, you can get in on some really dope sneakers for cheap. Get yourself laced for less and check out High/Low: Designer Sneakers and Their Affordable Counterparts.

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Our Legacy vs. Topman

Left: Our Legacy Running Sneaker, $280
Right: Topman Mesh Trainers, $85


Running sneakers are no longer just for treadmills or trails, now you'll see more dudes rocking them with dope outfits, and from the looks of these, it's no wonder why.


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Lanvin vs. Converse

Left: Lanvin Leather Low-Top Sneakers, $765
Right: Converse Pro-leather Chicago, $90


Low-profile black sneakers with simple details go with everything, and these two embody everything you need in a black low-top sneaker.


Maison Martin Margiela vs. adidas

Left: Maison Martin Margiela Replica Sneaker, $425
Right: adidas Samba Sneaker, $75


Low-tops in classic silhouettes should always be in your footwear arsenal, especially murdered-out ones that go with everything. So whether you chose to splurge or save, you're in good hands with these simple black kicks.


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Valentino vs. Zara

Left: Valentino Camo-Print Leather and Suede Sneakers, $795
Right: Zara Camoflauge Running Sneaker, $99


These two sneakers could pass as twins, so choosing either of them is a win. Since camo is never going out of style, this duo will have you looking great all year long. Rock them with a pair of solid pants like jeans or chinos.


Ann Demeulemeester vs. H&M

Left: Ann Demeulemeester Suede Sneakers, $800
Right: H&M High-Tops, $40


If you're into luxury, splurge on the suede low-top sneaker to break necks in the street. Animal friendly? This clean pair of high-tops still look great, are made from synthetic fabrics, and are a steal for under $50.


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Alejandro Ingelmo vs. Swear

Left: Alejandro Ingelmo Tron High-Top, $495
Right: Swear London Gene 3 High-Top, $279


We know you've got tons of black sneakers in your rotation, but these add a little variety with the blue soles and minimal details.

Balmain vs. Zara

Left: Balmain Leather High-Top, $1,015
Right: Zara Leather High-Top, $90


Air Force 1s aren't the only fresh white kicks are suited for any time of year. These two towering options will make all the hypebeasts sweat with jealousy.


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Giuseppe Zanotti vs. Converse

Left: Giuseppe Zanotti Shearling High-top, $695
Right: Converse by John Varvatos Snakeskin High-Top, $145


You can't go wrong with a neutral-colored sneaker. Either offering is a solid bet, whether you invest in a pair of Giuseppe Zanotti high-tops—a shoe designer getting co-signs from the likes of Kanye West—or the equally dope Converse Snakeskin High-Tops from desinger John Varvatos.


Givenchy vs. adidas

Left: Givenchy Star Strap High-Top, $720
Right: adidas ENFR Mid-Top, $100


High-top and mid-top sneakers were all over the runways this season. Get a headstart on fall style with either one of these choices. The black-and-brass Givenchy kicks give your street goth wardrobe some serious cred, while the white and red pops on the adidas ENFR Mid-Tops provide a really cool contrast.


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Raf Simons vs. Topman

Left: Raf Simons adidas Response 2, $415
Right: Topman 2-Tone Trainers, $85


These sneakers are made for running, but have looks clearly designed for stunting. Not willing to go whole hog on Raf Simons' adidas kicks that can take on anything? Topman's colorblocked running sneaker is a good, stylish substitute.

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