7 Sneaker Brands You Recognize (But Can't Name)

You know a thing or two about sneaker. You've rocked Stan Smiths or Converse or Cortez (or maybe all three). You've mastered the art of pulling them off at work, but you know when to whip them out on the weekends too. In today's sneaker-obsessed culture, there exists a set of classic sneaker brands that will have a spot in your closet no matter the passing trend. But while the icons of sneakerdom will never truly fade out, there's something to be said for keeping an eye on another important sector of the sneaker world: the brands that fly under the radar.

From indie lines with a cult following to clothing brands with an unexpectedly good mastery of footwear, we're rounding up seven places to pick up a cool pair of sneakers that, odds are, not a single one of your friends will show up wearing. They're the sneaker brands that fashion insiders line up right alongside their Nikes and Adidas, and their shoes are seriously cool. Curious to check out seven of our low-key favorites? You can shop them all below! 

Eytys

Inspired by '90s streetwear, Eytys (pronounced eighties) has earned its spot as a cult classic in a field flooded with brands trying to capture the "ugly" sneaker aesthetic. While its signature Angel style is impossible to keep in stock, the brand's other styles are noteworthy alternatives. 

& Other Stories

This brand is a favorite for cool basics and affordable everyday pieces, but one thing you might not know: it also has a killer sneakers section. & Other Stories manages to nail budget-friendly versions of the current trends.

Acne

You already love Acne's perfectly washed denim and cool sweatshirts, but its sneaker selection tends to fly under the radar. You may have spotted its trendy sneakers on your Instagram feed, but now you know exactly where those crave-worthy sneakers came from.

ETQ Amsterdam 

Sometimes the best things in your closet are the pieces that fly under the radar but manage to elevate the rest of any outfit. That's what ETQ Amsterdam does best. The brand marries minimalism and street cool to great effect.

Feit

Feit sneakers aren't like other sneakers. Built by hand in NYC, these cool kicks are the luxe take on streetwear that have attracted a following of industry insiders and trendsetters both in New York and beyond.

Filling Pieces

Sporty but still oh so cool, Amsterdam label Filling Pieces has become a favorite among the street style set. Whether your signature sneaker style is something chunky-soled, or maybe something a bit more geared toward actually working out, you'll find something cool from this brand.

Ganni

Danish label Ganni has become the darling of fashion editors and influencers alike, but as much as its floral dresses and wide-legged jeans capture the hearts of the in-crowd, its sneakers are not to be missed. Unexpected details like ruffles and pops of color make them anything but run-of-the-mill.