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The 7 Best Canvas Shoes For Laid-Back Style

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by Mackenzie Edwards
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Amazon

Canvas shoes are versatile, affordable, and low-maintenance, which makes them a great everyday shoe to complete your wardrobe. That said, some canvas options come with flimsy soles that wear out quickly. The best canvas shoes have lightweight yet supportive rubber soles that ensure comfort, whether you are taking a stroll down the boardwalk or wearing them throughout the work day. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a new pair.

Style

When people think of canvas shoes, images of classic white skips from popular brands like Keds may come to mind. But these woven fabric shoes have come a long way and can be found in a variety of colors, prints, and styles to complement everything from workout clothes to flowy sundresses. This list includes laid-back slip-on sneakers, high-top sneakers, and more traditional lace-up canvas shoes that sit low on the ankle.

Support

Shoes with thicker soles provide more cushioning for your feet. Look for pairs with solid, yet lightweight, rubber soles that will not deteriorate over time. Depending on their cut (high or low on the ankle) you may be able to slip on canvas shoes without socks or they may require that extra fabric support to prevent blisters.

Ease of Care

Perhaps the best part of cotton canvas shoes is how easy they are to clean — meaning you can get them dirty without fear of ruining them. Spot cleaning with detergent or stain remover will do the trick, and if all else fails, canvas shoes hold up in the wash.

With all this in mind, here are the cutest, most highly rated canvas shoes to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe.

1The Overall Best Canvas Shoes

These classic slip-on shoes are laid back and breathable enough to wear all year. The canvas upper has a classic toe stitch for extra support and an elastic V-panel that makes sliding them on and off so easy. These shoes have an impressive 4.6-star rating on Amazon after more than 18,000 reviews, and they’ve racked up accolades for their longevity and supreme comfort. Some shoppers did mention they are more narrow than most sneakers, especially in the toe, but do stretch over time. This original TOMS style comes in 28 colors and patterns to match any occasion or look. While the shoes' overall structure is flat, they do include a latex arch insert and have a mixed-rubber sole that reviewers say absorbs shock well. Reviewers mention they get dirty fairly easily but hold up well in the wash.

Helpful Review: "I mostly wear my Tom's shoes everyday and have them in many colors [...] and styles but the Alpargata is my favorite. They are super comfortable, cute and go with everything. I have some that I have been wearing for years and still look great."

  • Available colors: 28
  • Available sizes: 5 — 13

2Some Time-Tested Slip-Ons In Funky Patterns

This traditional checkerboard slip-on shoe never goes out of style, partly because these Vans are durable enough to stand the test of time. Originally created for skaters, the shoe's rubber outsole — which features Vans' signature gum rubber waffle tread — has exceptional traction and toughness. Unlike other low-top shoes, these feature a thick heel collar that prevents blisters and offers additional ankle support (even when you aren't wearing socks). The cushioned insole offers support without interrupting airflow which keeps your feet cool all day. This shoe comes in more than 30 colors and prints.

Helpful Review: "These shoes are my go-to shoes. They match with almost everything, and are so comfortable. Despite wearing them almost everyday, and not being a very careful person, these shoes are still in pretty good shape.”

  • Available colors: 31
  • Available sizes: 5.5 — 14.5

3Some Breezy Lace-ups In Narrow & Wide Sizes

Keds has been making these classic lace-up canvas sneakers for more than 100 years. The thick, rubber soles are supportive and its eyelet lace-up design offers adjustable fit. This style comes in extra-narrow, narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide sizes to accommodate feet of all sizes. Choose from nine colors to match your style. They cut lower on top, which reviewers say means it's best to wear low-cut socks or no socks at all.

Helpful Review: "The hunt is over!! I ordered 4 different canvas lace ups for summer. Each was cute BUT... These fit!! My foot is just a bit wide so I often wear a Medium width. Yippee Keds!"

  • Available colors: 9
  • Available sizes: 4 — 13 (regular with select extra-narrow through extra-wide sizes)

4A Platform Sneaker With Some Height

These Superga sneakers combine function and style. They have a 1.5 inch platform made from rubber to give you a bit of height and a comfy cotton upper. Many reviewers say these cute vintage-style shoes took a bit of breaking in, but that adding gel heel inserts helps and that they quickly become the most comfy shoes if you have a bit of patience. They come in five great colors like pale pink, olive green, and neutrals that go with everything you wear.

Helpful Review: "These shoes are so cute! They do run a little on the larger side, so I have to make sure my laces are tied super tight so I don’t twist my ankle while walking. But other than that, comfy and trendy!”

  • Available colors: 5
  • Available sizes: 5 — 10

5Some Classic High-Top Canvas Shoes

These high-top canvas sneakers were made for basketball players and continue to support feet in most activities today. The canvas material holds its color for years and the small vent holes on the side keep you cool. Unlike most canvas shoes, these favorites feature a vulcanized rubber toe that is designed to be even more durable for additional support and traction, though reviewers say it's still light on shock absorption (in other words: these are not running shoes). They're available in more than a dozen colors with the brand’s most iconic shades. (Tip: scroll down to find women’s sizes.)

Helpful Review: "Love my new shoes! Definitely recommend. So cute and matches literally everything."

  • Available colors: 12
  • Available sizes: 3.5 — 18 (women’s 5 — 13)

6These Canvas Shoes In Whimsical Prints

If you're looking for a reliable shoe that comes in a wide range of colors or patterns, these slip-on canvas shoes are for you. Prints include cotton candy, tie-dye, leopard, polka dots, and plenty of solid color options. With their distinctive patterns, there's something for everyone. The thick rubber sole has a waffle pattern for traction, as well as a cushioned footbed to support your heels. Reviewers say they won't leave blisters on your feet, even after hours of wear.

Helpful Review: "You really can't beat the value for the price. Super comfortable! I wear with light no-show socks and can wear all day long. I tend to get blisters from Converse brand sneakers and I've had no issue with these! Can wear all day without [any] problems.”

  • Available colors: 8
  • Available sizes: 5 — 11

7A Slip-On Pair That's Great For Walking

These lightweight canvas sneakers have faux laces that give the look of laced up shoes with the ease of slip-ons. The sole is described as "synthetic," and it is unclear whether it is made from rubber, but reviewers say it is much more flexible than other shoes and the insole contains extra padding to keep your feet comfortable no matter how far you walk. Choose from 30 colors and patterns, including rainbow, camo, and animal print. They have a distressed look and feature a small zipper on the side for extra style. The back of the heel has another fun design element: a colorful threaded pattern to add visual interest.

Helpful Review: "Oh my gosh, guys, this is the sneaker of all cute sneakers...The sole has a beautiful cushion that feels like a squishy cloud. The inside of the shoe canvas is made with a terry towel like material that is soft. You could wear these without socks if you want, or no-socks work great.”

  • Available colors: 30
  • Available sizes: 5.5 — 11

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