6 versatile shoes you can wear to the office and the gym

Leave your shoe bags behind – these are the work-appropriate sneakers that you can wear to the gym and the office

By Shazrina Shamsudin - 29 Mar 2023

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Nothing beats kickstarting your morning with a good sweaty workout and feeling energised before heading to work.

But if there’s one thing we struggle with on days when we’re carrying lots of things in hand, it’s the fact that we have to lug our shoe bag around as we commute from the gym to the office.

Case in point: While some of us prefer to have a dedicated pair for our workouts, at times, we would much rather wear a pair that we can wear to both our workout sessions and to work. Of course, this is only applicable if your workplace has a smart-casual dress code and your bosses have given you the green light to wear your sneakers to work.

One of the other factors that we have also taken into consideration is that these sneakers are more or less a little more affordable than your usual designer sneakers, with most options going below $300 – at the end of the day, you’ll be wearing them to workout, which can get a little dirty especially if your train outdoors.

For some of our favourite sneakers, keep on scrolling.

550s , $179, New Balance

Credit: New Balance

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This pair by New Balance gives you that added height thanks to its thick rubber outsoles, which also offer great traction and durability. Casual and chic, you can easily pair this sneaker with your favourite pair of joggers or with a figure-hugging midi dress if you prefer a look that’s a little more chunky.

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Chuck 70 Hi, $169, Converse

Credit: Converse

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The iconic Chuck 70 Hi is definitely a reliable pair that you can count on if you’re going to the gym to lift some weights. It has a thicker canvas, more arch support, and higher foxing. On top of that, it brings versatility to each ensemble and resonates well with almost everyone’s aesthetics. If you’re looking for something a little more trendy, you can also consider getting the brand’s latest collaboration with Stussy. Made from 100% hemp, the shoes are available in two colourways – pearl and black – which features the Stüssy ‘Double S’ design in pearlized studs. Both feature a hidden interior patch and a custom Stüssy “ALL STAR” woven label on the tongue.

Now available at the Stüssy Chapter Singapore, 6 Scotts Rd, #01-01, Singapore 228209

Air Max 97, $285, Nike

Credit: Nike

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There have been many iterations of Nike’s iconic Air Max, and we’re definitely certain that you’ll find a design that’s sure to tickle your fancy. While they’re not entirely the best pair of shoes to be running on the treadmill with, this sporty pair will provide sufficient coverage and support for your feet throughout the day. What’s more, you can also customise and personalist your own sneaker online too!

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2002R, $239, New Balance

Credit: New Balance

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Slick and stylish, you can easily incorporate this pair of shoes into your everyday look. Think – a pair of cargo pants or wide-legged pants, or go for something a little more feminine and pair it with a classic little black dress. On a side note, this pair might not be the most ideal if you’re running, but it can provide sufficient support while you’re lifting weights.

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Velosamba Vegan Cycling Shoes, $159, Adidas

Credit: Adidas

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By now you would’ve probably seen street-style stars or even models like Bella Hadid wearing the iconic Sambas. Not only does it offer great versatility but it’s also really comfortable. What’s more these shoes were also designed with riding, commuting and indoor cycling in mind – so it ensures efficient pedalling that still flexes for comfortable walking.

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Mexico 66 Slip-on Asics, $140, Onitsuka Tiger

Credit: Onitsuka Tiger

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Shoes like the Mexico 66 slip-ons are very minimal and have a great ground feel with minimal stack heights. Boasting a look that’s retro and contemporary techniques, this minimalistic pair from Asics can go well with just about any ensemble too.

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