The early 2010s practically had a uniform: skinny jeans, big infinity scarves and, for some reason, wedge sneakers. And because fashion is cyclical and everything comes back eventually, at least one of those things is trending again. According to "Who What Wear," 2010s nostalgia and a spate of sightings of celebs wearing them has wedge sneakers back en vogue right now, which means if you have a teen (or are particularly fashion-forward yourself), you might be on the hunt for a pair of these nostalgic kicks.
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BestReviews Executive Editor Maria Guido has seen the revival firsthand.
"My 13-year-old somehow knows what Isabel Marant wedge sneakers are, and tweens and teens seem to be a litmus test for everything ‘cool’ nowadays," she said. "I am definitely not spending $800 for a pair of designer sneakers for a teen (or anyone, for that matter), so I’m happy to have uncovered some way more affordable options out there."
In this article: Women's Mavis Wedge Sneaker in Taupe Suede, PUMA Women's Speedcat Lace Up Sneakers Shoes Casual - Brown and Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Wedge Platform High-Top Sneaker
Isabel Marant was the designer who helped catapult wedge sneakers to the height of their popularity in the 2010s, and she still sells them today — for over $800 a pair. But like Guido said, you don't need to drop almost a rack to revive this trend. The more affordable options are rounded up right here.
Women's Mavis Wedge Sneaker in Taupe Suede
This high-top design has a suede and synthetic upper and a 1-inch hidden wedge for an unmistakably 2010s-inspired look. The Taupe Suede colorway gives it a warm, neutral look that goes with anything.
Women's Mavis Wedge Sneaker in Black Suede
Black suede makes this pair feel like the original look that dominated the early 2010s. These high-tops still offer a concealed 1-inch wedge, and the sole is durable enough for daily wear.
PUMA Womens Speedcat Lace-Up Sneakers Shoes Casual - Brown
PUMA’s brown Speedcat Wedge has a suede base and metallic detailing for an overall sporty twist on this trend. The 2.25-inch wedge is paired with a rubber sole for traction and durability, plus a cushioned collar and tongue for comfort.
PUMA Women's Speedcat Leather Lace-Up Sneakers Shoes Casual - Grey
This pair takes the streamlined silhouette of PUMA's wedge sneakers and adds leather to give them an even sportier look. If it weren't for the 2.25-inch concealed wedge heel, these wouldn't look out of place on a basketball court.
Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Wedge Platform High-Top Sneaker
Converse hides the wedge inside the familiar look of a Chuck Taylor high-top, so you get an almost 3-inch heel, plus OrthoLite cushioning and breathable mesh lining for comfort and breathability.
Journee Women's Clarity High-Top Wedge Sneaker
These high-top wedge sneakers from Journee use a vegan leather upper that has a side zipper to make them easier to put on and take off. Some of the colorways also use faux fur around the ankle. In addition to the wedge, these shoes have a 1-inch platform for even more height.
Dsevht Hidden Wedge Sneakers for Women
These high-tops have a classic, throwback look with a 2-inch wedge and three Velcro strap closures. The upper uses a combination of suede and synthetic textiles, and the sole is cushioned with foam and polyurethane to make them comfortable enough for all-day wear.
UBFEN Women's High-Top Sneakers with Hidden Wedge
These high-top sneakers have a hidden 2-inch heel for a more retro silhouette. They use synthetic outer materials that are lightweight and good for everyday walking, even long distances.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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