Beyond the Basic: A Sneaker Guide
Written by: Jane Morgan | Photo by: Annabel Kiley
Say goodbye to your old, beat-up, white AF1s with a new pair of cool shoes that none of your friends even know exist.
All of Gen Z knows how classic the style of the white Nike Air Force 1 is; in fact, most of them probably even have a pair in their closet. The AF1 is so versatile and widespread that it has become overdone or “basic” in Gen Z terms. However, finding a sneaker that not every single one of your friends owns can be overwhelming. Scrolling through resell apps such as GOAT or StockX doesn’t help, especially when you don’t know much about the sneaker industry, what shoes are on-trend, or how to find good deals. Don’t despair! Below is a list of eight sneakers for resale that goes way beyond the basic Air Force 1.
1. Nike Women’s Air Max 90 ‘Caramel’
The comfort of the Air Max 90 style is unmatched, especially compared to the unsupportive sole of the Air Force 1. This specific colorway is the ideal neutral color-blocking combination with outfits that can be worn during any season. The warm-toned browns and tans manage to pop because these colors are used less prominently compared to black and white neutrals or bright neon shades.
Retail Price: $120
Resell Value: $91 to $323
2. Nike Women’s Dunk Low ‘Black White’
The Dunk Low silhouette is a slimmer version of the Air Force 1, creating a slenderer look on the feet. The highly coveted Black/White colorway is less expensive in the female version of the shoe, and men can still purchase the larger sizes to get a pair for a lower price. The placement of the black and white colors creates a beautiful color block that is easy to spot when worn with a complementary outfit.
Retail Price: $100
Resell Value: $209 to $309
3. Converse Keith Haring x Chuck 70 High
Converse high tops are among the most classic sneakers, and this elevated version outdoes the basic Air Force 1 without question. Keith Haring’s artwork became re-popularized in 2020, seen in prints, clothes, and shoes. This funky design of dancing figures on the lateral side will add a playful touch to any outfit and undoubtedly be a conversation starter.
Retail Price: $110
Resell Value: $78 to $377
4. Nike Women’s Blazer Low Platform ‘White Black’
If you’re looking to not branch out too far from the Air Force 1, the Low Platform Blazer is the best shoe to replace the “basic.” The simple addition of the platform, the smaller Nike Swoosh, and the grey patches on the front sole elevates the shoe’s look. These components make the Low Platform Blazer easier to style with a wider variety of outfits because of the neutral color palette. The silhouette is flattering, and the shorter tongue length doesn’t overcrowd the ankle and make the foot look bulky like the Air Force.
Retail Price: $95
Resell Value: $92 to $159
5. Nike Women’s Air Huarache ‘Rattan’
The physical form of the Air Huarache differs from other athletic-style sneakers that are on the market. A plastic piece placed on the heel is an added feature that makes the Huarache stand out. The industrial appearance of this shoe in any colorway, such as the Triple White and Stüssy Dark Olive, is sleek and presents itself as an exercise shoe and not simply a style piece. This neutral colorway with the pop of red adds depth, while still not looking too over the top and is very easy to style in both a more dressed-up outfit or an athletic look.
Retail Price: $120
Resell Value: $113 to $172
6. Nike Women’s Blazer Mid ’77 LX ‘Lucky Charms – White’
If you’re stuck on sticking with a white shoe as a base, this version of the Blazer Mid ’77 is your perfect pick. The sleek white look is super clean, and the addition of the gold charms and gold embroidered “NIKE” on the back of the shoe make them a statement piece. For a monochromatic, clean look, style these shoes with an all-white outfit and gold jewelry, although they could be worn with anything you already have in your closet.
Retail Price: $120
Resell Value: $95 to $200
7. Nike Women’s Dunk Low Disrupt ‘Barely Rose’
The Dunk Low Disrupts have a more intricate design take on the classic Dunk Low. This colorway is captivating and differs from Nike’s usual all-neutral or all color-popping sneakers, with the outer sole a dark brown and the midsole left white. The dimension this adds to the shoe, with most of it in light pink, offers various ways to style it, from more dressed up to very casual streetwear.
Retail Price: $110
Resell Value: $92 to $150
8. Nike Women’s Air Jordan 1 Low ‘Limelight’
An extremely similar silhouette to the Dunk Lows, this bright colorway of the Air Jordan 1s will add the perfect pop of color to any outfit. The pale yet vibrant green color is not too overwhelming, but still adds a dynamic element that makes them stand out. The Limelight colorway also features a white mesh as the fabric that makes up the tongue, toe vamp, and midsole, giving the shoe an extra layer of texture.
Retail Price: $120
Resell Value: $112 to $360
