As some of you know, I’m a total sneakerhead.
I can’t get enough of collecting different styles and brands.
Lately I’ve been loving Zumiez for their awesome selection of skate shoes and casual sneakers.
But I realized my collection was getting a little Zumiez-heavy, so I decided to branch out and find some similar brands to mix things up.
Stick with me as I dive deep into 17 great alternatives to Zumiez for shoes and sneakers!
Vans
Vans is probably the most similar brand to Zumiez.
They started out making skate shoes but have expanded into lifestyle and casual styles too.
Their canvas slip-ons are iconic – I have them in just about every checkerboard color combo! A few other classic Vans styles that are must-haves for any sneaker lover include the Old Skool, Authentic, and Era.
The great thing about Vans is they offer a wide selection of prints and colors to mix up your look.
I especially love their seasonal collaborations, like the Harry Potter and Nintendo themed shoes.
And you can customize your own pair too with Vans’ Custom Culture program. Their shoes really speak to personal style and individuality.
Converse
Another classic brand, Converse are known for their simple Chuck Taylor All Star low and high tops. The Chucks have been around since the early 1900s!
So you really can’t go wrong with basic black and white Converse sneakers – they will never go out of style.
Personally, I like to get creative with different colors and prints like rainbow tie-dye or leopard print.
Converse also does really fun collaborations with brands ranging from Comme des Garcons to Animal Crossing.
Their seasonal Pride collection shoes are always a statement. Beyond the iconic Chucks, Converse also has skateboarding and basketball lines that offer some more technical shoe designs. Overall their styles have stood the test of time.
Adidas
When you think of iconic sneaker brands, Adidas has to make the list. Their Superstar and Stan Smith styles have been around since the 60s and 70s but remain ultra popular today.
The simplicity and clean lines are so versatile to pair with any outfit. Adidas really paved the way for sneaker culture.
And beyond their classics, they make high quality athletic shoes for just about every sport – basketball, soccer, baseball, football, tennis, you name it.
I especially love their NMD and Ultraboost lines for a modern streetwear aesthetic.
Their Boost foam technology is so comfortable! Adidas also does cool retro inspired lines like their Gazelle heritage shoes.
And designers like Alexander Wang, Stella McCartney and Pharrell Williams have all collaborated with Adidas too. Their longevity in the sneaker industry is impressive.
Nike
Along with Adidas, Nike is one of the giants of the sneaker world. Their Air Force 1 model is a streetwear staple that has been going strong since the 80s.
I love how many customizable options they offer for the AF1s too. And of course, Michael Jordan’s line of signature shoes with Nike are sought after by collectors and ball players.
The retro Jordan 1s, 3s, and 11s are grail shoes for any sneakerhead.
Beyond basketball, Nike also has popular running and training shoes like the Air Max, Pegasus, and Metcon.
Their Flyknit and React technology for uppers and soles give the shoes that instantly recognizable Nike look and feel. Nike really sets the standard for performance and style sneakers.
Puma
Puma has been innovating with unique sole designs lately. Their RS-X line has a cool retro futuristic look, with transparent chunks in the sole.
The RS-X Toys are a favorite with their bright pop art colors. Puma also revived their classic Suede and Basket styles, which offer laidback style.
Their collaboration with Hello Kitty is just too cute! And Puma has partnered with celebrities like Rihanna, Jay-Z, and Selena Gomez to design capsule collections too.
The styles ranges from sporty to feminine streetwear vibes. I especially appreciate how Puma is embracing sustainability lately as well.
Reebok
Going back to the 80s and 90s, Reebok had some of the hottest basketball shoes around with styles worn by Shaq and Allen Iverson.
They’ve maintained popularity with simple leather runners like the Club C 85 – those are my go-to gym shoes! Reebok is actually revamping a lot of their vintage shoe models with updated details, which I love.
Their partnerships with brands like Pyer Moss, Maison Margiela, and Gianni Versace keep Reebok’s styles fresh and exciting.
And their womenswear lines are killing it lately too – Freestyle Hi, Floatride Energy…too many cute options to choose from!
New Balance
Known for their technical running shoes, New Balance has expanded into the lifestyle market. Their 574 core style comes in endless color combos to match any outfit.
I probably have 10 different pairs! More recently the New Balance 990 series has become popular thanks to its chunky dad shoe aesthetic. B
eyond their classics, New Balance still makes excellent running shoes for both beginners and advanced athletes.
Models like the Fresh Foam More and FuelCell Rebel have the bounce and support needed for marathon training and racing. So Fitness junkies can feel good rocking New Balance casual shoes too.
Saucony
Another athletic brand, Saucony has gained respect in the sneaker community for their use of premium materials and bright colors.
Their Jazz and Shadow 5000 shoes are perfect for casual wear thanks to the nylon/suede combinations and retro vibe. I especially love Saucony’s collaborations with brands like Kith, Feature, and Bodega.
Their limited editions really showcase Saucony’s strengths with dynamic color palettes and textures.
And Saucony’s performance running shoes are top-notch as well – models like the Endorphin Speed have racers breaking PRs. So they make great lifestyle shoes grounded in athletic quality.
Asics
Asics are beloved by runners but they deserve more street cred for their lifestyle offerings. Their Gel Lyte III and V models have super comfortable, supportive soles.
I like wearing them when I know I’ll be on my feet all day! The split tongue and use of mesh, suede, and leather gives them a really unique, premium look. And Asics does awesome collaborations with brands like Kiko Kostadinov and Pigalle that reimagine their iconic styles.
But they haven’t forgotten their performance roots either – Asics has running shoes equipped with their FlyteFoam technology that provide the perfect balance of bounce and support. Overall an underrated sneaker brand in my opinion!
Onitsuka Tiger
Onitsuka Tiger is actually an older company than Nike and Adidas, known for heritage styles. Their iconic Mexico 66 sneaker has a retro vibe that’s still relevant today.
I have like 5 different color combinations because they go with everything! Beyond the Mexico 66, Onitsuka Tiger also revamped other vintage models like the Serrana and Tai Chi.
The suede and leather pairs have a super premium feel. And they collaborate with brands like Beams and BAPE to offer modern takes on their classics. If you want shoes with old school charm, you can’t go wrong with Onitsuka Tiger.
Fila
Going for a chunky, dad shoe look? Fila’s Disruptor 2 style gained popularity for its clunky throwback design.
The thick soles and leather/mesh combos create a cool bulky silhouette. Beyond the Disruptor 2, Fila offers reimagined heritage tennis styles like the Mindblower and Original Fitness.
Collaborations with brands like Extra Butter and Staple keep things fresh. Fila manages to blend vintage charm with modern streetwear appeal.
K-Swiss
Founded in the 1960s, K-Swiss specialized in classic leather tennis shoes. These days they offer a range of heritage inspired sneakers in a variety of vivid colorways that liven up the vintage vibe.
The Classic VN and Classic 66 are old school favorites.
And their collaboration with Chinatown Market resulted in smiley face shoes that spread good vibes. K-Swiss is definitely a brand to check out if you like playful twists on retro designs.
PF Flyers
PF Flyers have been around since the 1930s, so they have heritage appeal. Their Center Hi and Center Lo styles offer a vintage Americana look, similar to Converse. I love wearing them with jeans and a white tee for a classic 50s vibe.
Beyond their mainstay shoes, PF Flyers also does fun collaborations with brands like Black Scale and New Balance. And they’ve updated vintage silhouettes with technical features like gel inserts for comfort. So there’s a good mix of old and new with PF Flyers.
Hoka One One
Known for maximal cushioning technology, Hoka running shoes almost look like platform sneakers with their super thick soles. Their Clifton and Bondi styles make a statement for sure! The extra cushioning makes them popular with ultramarathoners logging crazy miles.
And they come in vibrant color combos that grab your attention. While known mainly for performance shoes, Hoka partnered with Engineered Garments on a limited edition Hupana collab that has a cool deconstructed look. So don’t sleep on Hoka for stylish comfort.
Brooks
Another technical running brand, Brooks is a mainstay at races and running stores thanks to their support and stabilization technology. But their new Run Visible collection features reflective details that look cool for streetwear too.
Their recent collab with Beams gave some retro models a modern neon pop color update. And running nerds will geek out over their shoes equipped with GuideRails to prevent injury. Brooks might not be the first brand you think of for lifestyle shoes, but they deserve a spot on this list for sure.
Karhu
Hailing from Finland, Karhu is one of the OG athletic shoemakers along with Adidas and Puma. The brand has a cult following thanks to their focus on quality over quantity – they don’t oversaturate the market.
The Fusion 2.0 is their flagship sneaker and sets the standard for Karhu’s use of premium leathers and nylon. Clean color blocking defines the Karhu aesthetic. And collabs with brands like Overkill and Sneakersnstuff help generate buzz. If you want shoes with Nordic heritage, add Karhu to your list.
ASRV
Founded in Los Angeles, ASRV balances an active California lifestyle with a refined, minimalist aesthetic.
Their shoes feature clean leather and suede combinations that feel luxe. I’m a big fan of the ASRV Mule – it’s my go-to for running errands while still looking put together.
And their technical hiking boots blend trail performance with sleek silhouettes. ASRV’s footwear definitely stands out from the crowd while still being versatile. I always get compliments when I wear their shoes!
Supra
Founded in 2006, Supra brought something new to the skate shoe scene with their distinctive styling and bold use of materials.
The Supra Skytop kicked things off for the brand with its iconic high top silhouette and fusion of leather, suede, and mesh on the upper. I love the variety of colors they come in too – from basic black and white to bright patent leather pops of color.
Beyond skate shoes, Supra also makes stylish low top sneakers like the Vaider and Estaban which are perfect for cruising around town. Supra offers great durability and board feel for skaters, while still maintaining a fashionable look.
Their shoes stand out from the typical Vans and Converse styles. Recently Supra collaborated with brands like CLOT and vomero to put creative new spins on their classic designs. And pro skaters like Chad Muska and Erik Ellington rep the brand well. If you want eye-catching skate shoes with an avant-garde edge, Supra has you covered.
Under Armour
When you think athletic performance, Under Armour comes to mind for their innovative apparel technology.
But their footwear is impressive as well. Their running shoes like the HOVR Machina and Flow Velociti use compressed foam for optimal energy return when pounding the pavement. Models like the TriBase Reign 3 and Hovr Sonic cater to triathletes and gym junkies too.
Beyond sports-focused shoes, Under Armour now makes stylish workout and lifestyle shoes meant for all day wear. The HOVR Sonic 3 Lite ups the ante with its super sleek knit upper and Floatride Energy foam.
The UA Forge 96 and Forge RC blur the lines between training and streetwear. And UA Sportstyle models offer athleisure vibes in classic silhouettes. With founder Steph Curry repping Under Armour on the court, they make functional kicks that can also keeping you looking fresh. I especially appreciate their focus on comfort and support through long work days.
Reef
Based in California, Reef draws inspiration from sandy beaches for laidback comfort footwear. They’re known for casual sandals that can take you from the boardwalk to beers at a beach bar.
The Fanning and Cushion Bounce are good go-to options with their contoured footbeds and durable rubber outsoles. Reef’s collab with artist Romero Britto captured his colorful pop art style on printed sandals.
And their sustainable Eco-Thong Flips are made from recycled materials to benefit marine life. For closed toe shoes, Reef offers easy slip-ons like the Rover and Ridge along with sleeker Court Lite options.
Much of their footwear incorporates water-friendly materials that shed moisture and can get wet without issue. So Reef makes it easy to go with the flow on vacation or casual days. Their shoes let you bring the chill beach vibes wherever you go. Grab a pair of Reefs to transport you to paradise even on hectic days.
DC Shoes
Founded in 1994, DC appealed to skaters who wanted understated style instead of in-your-face branding. Their iconic Court Graffik showcased their clean aesthetic, and gained popularity beyond skate culture.
Today DC continues making technical skate shoes outfitted with impact support and grippy rubber soles. Favorites like the Lynx Vulc offer versatility from park to street. But DC also branched into lifestyle and athleisure footwear.
The Kalis Vulc SE exemplifies their blend of casual wear with skate DNA. And the Scout Waterproof is a stylish rain-proof sneaker boot. Collaborations with brands like Starter, Proof, and UNDEFEATED reinterpret DC’s classics through a streetwear lens.
If you like low key skate shoes, DC has options that transition seamlessly into everyday wear. Their understated look goes with everything. DC makes it easy to skate all day then continue the adventure off-board without missing a beat.
Etnies
Tracing their roots back to 1986, etnies established themselves as a skateboarding footwear staple early on. Their Fatty and Highback styles exemplified durable skate shoes before things went mainstream.
Today etnies still makes technical skate shoes equipped with STI foam midsoles and rubber wraps to prevent blowouts when grinding. The Jameson 3 and Marana styles merge plush cushioning and support with trendy style.
Beyond performance, etnies lifestyle shoes like the Jefferson and Scout mix skate DNA with everyday wearability. I especially love their collaborations with brands like Metal Mulisha and Obey that reinvent their classics with fresh prints and colorways.
Etnies also makes stylish eco-friendly shoes using recycled rubber, vegan leather, and organic cotton. Blending modern comfort with nostalgic skate roots, etnies has true versatility.
Their footwear stands out from the typical Vans styles. So if you want durable skate shoes that can handle day to night adventures, look to etnies.
