As the chunky sneaker era officially sunsets, the footwear landscape for spring 2026 is returning to the essentials. The plimsoll was once a humble gym-class staple but has been elevated into a versatile “palate cleanser” for the modern wardrobe.
These slim-sole silhouettes provide the perfect visual anchor for the season’s shift toward soft tailoring and relaxed-fit trousers. Whether you’re pairing them with unlined blazers or puddle-cut chinos, here are the 7 best men’s plimsolls:
Best Men’s Plimsolls
Vans Premium Authentic
A cornerstone of the “Low-Pro” movement, the Premium Authentic brings back the exact specifications of the 1966 original. For spring 2026, this means a higher rubber sidewall, midweight canvas, and a refined shape that surpasses a skate shoe, instead acting like a piece of heritage footwear.
The Vibe: Timeless Americana.
Style with: Straight-leg jeans and a vintage-wash sweatshirt.
Common Projects Original Achilles Low
The gold standard of minimalist footwear, the Achilles Low remains unrivaled for its sleek, tapered profile and Italian-made quality. Its low-profile rubber sole and signature gold serial number make it the definitive choice for those who need a sneaker that functions like a dress shoe.
The Vibe: High-End Minimalism.
Style with: An unlined navy blazer and a crisp white tee.
Sperry CVO
The authentic deck sneaker that started it all, the CVO is a masterclass in understated style. Originally developed in the 1930s, its slim profile and razor-cut Wave-Siping sole have made it a favorite of style icons for decades.
The Vibe: Ivy League / New Prep.
Style with: Five-inch inseam shorts and an oxford button-down.
Prada Drill Fabric Sneakers
Prada is leading the 2026 charge in the luxury canvas space with their Drill Fabric sneakers. Combining retro moods with a contemporary urban character, these shoes feature a lightweight construction and clean lines, finished with the iconic fabric logo label.
The Vibe: Modern Luxury.
Style with: A full tonal suit in sand or charcoal.
Novesta Star Master
Handmade in Slovakia using the same machinery since 1939, the Star Master is easily identified by its signature vulcanized rubber sole and heavy-duty canvas upper. It’s an “insider” icon that values utilitarian design over flashy branding.
The Vibe: European Workwear.
Style with: Relaxed-fit chinos and a denim chore coat.
Doek Oxford (Ecru)
Produced in Kurume, Japan, Doek uses traditional Kurume Kasuri canvas woven on old-fashioned power looms. The natural cork footbed breathes and molds to your foot over time, resulting in a sneaker that is as simple and functional as the original tennis shoes of the 1930s.
The Vibe: Artisanal Japanese Craft.
Style with: Indigo selvedge denim and a linen shirt.
Stepney Workers Club (S.W.C) Dellow
The Dellow is a classic low-top sneaker featuring a heavy-duty vulcanized sole and a deconstructed upper. Inspired by the inclusive culture of traditional workers’ sports clubs, it offers a more substantial feel while remaining low-profile.
The Vibe: Rugged Urban.
Style with: Wide-leg pleated trousers and a cropped Harrington jacket.
Editorial Tip: The “Low-Pro” Rule
When styling these with the “soft tailoring” look, pay attention to the hem. Because these shoes are slim, a pant that is too short can make the foot look small. Opt for a slight break or a puddle-cut so the fabric stacks slightly on top of the shoe, creating a more balanced, effortless silhouette.
