I've tried on countless pairs of popular trainers this year—only these five have been approved by the editor.

      Welcome to The Great Try-On. With autumn fully upon us, we seized the chance to test some of the latest arrivals from your favorite brands, documenting our experience throughout. We believe that the most effective way to shop online is to see an item in person and read honest reviews, and we hope this will guide you to some of your best purchases this year. I eagerly embraced the chance to try out the autumn’s trending trainers—those styles I adore but don’t really need (or have room for in my closet). As a long-time fan of trainers, I consider myself somewhat of an expert who can easily spot trends as they emerge, and I would choose them over loafers or ballet flats any day.

      Not all trainers are created equal, and not every pair can earn the coveted title of being the season's must-haves. From classic white trainers to buzzworthy pairs like the New Balance X Miu Miu collaboration—arguably one of the most sought-after designer collections to date—there are distinct signs that indicate when a style is poised to sell out. First, they effortlessly fit into a capsule wardrobe, offering versatility and ease of styling (essentially, you can wear them repeatedly while still looking chic). Second, you’ll see them embraced by those in the know. Among so many trending choices, only a few seem to captivate both fashion influencers and celebrities alike; when that happens, you know you're onto something. Lastly, they must be genuinely comfortable. By 2025, the best trainers feel like walking on clouds—no breaking them in required.

      After trying on numerous pairs of trainers trending for autumn 2025, I’ve narrowed it down to the five that stood out. If you’re in the market, scroll down to see which pairs are worth the investment for the upcoming season.

      **The Best Trainers for Autumn 2025, Reviewed by an Editor:**

      1. **Dries Van Noten Leather-Trimmed Sneakers**

      

       My Review: With a retro '70s aesthetic dominating the trainer scene, streamlined styles with thin soles and rounded toes abound, but Dries Van Noten's Leather-Trimmed Sneakers truly stand apart. Drawing attention from fans like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, these trainers showcase clean lines and a soft suede finish (or a leather and fabric version) with a chic two-tone color palette, delivering the comfort of a classic trainer with a modern 2025 twist. I noticed they have replaced Adidas Sambas in the outfits of trendy Instagram users, making them a must-try.

       These sneakers fit like a glove with their simple design instantly elevating any outfit. To my surprise (as I hoped they wouldn't meet my high expectations due to their premium price), they truly lived up to the hype. The flat sole offers minimal cushioning, which is part of their charm—they almost conform to your feet. I particularly appreciate this feature when searching for trainers: they create the illusion of delicate feet. Anyone with larger feet knows the struggle; most trainers tend to exaggerate shoe size, but these do the opposite, providing a sleek, sculptural look that enhances elegance without sacrificing trendiness.

       Whether you choose the classic tan suede or the popular Bordeaux leather-and-fabric variant—both key colors for autumn 2025—you’ll add a perfect hint of color to your laid-back autumn outfits, preventing them from looking untidy. To test them out, I paired the suede version with light denim jeans, a chunky knit sweater, and a khaki trench coat, achieving the polished look I hoped for. I styled the Bordeaux version with the chic Dries funnel-neck jacket over the same jeans and knit, which, with its balloon sleeves, high collar, and wool blend, is both relaxed and structured—ideal for layering. Stylish, functional, and ahead of the fashion curve, these trainers are definitely worth your attention and investment.

      2. **COS Minimal Leather Trainers**

       My Review: Now that it's clear slimline trainers are back, it's only right to mention COS's minimal leather trainers. Spotted on influencer Lucy Williams during the brand’s spring/summer 2025 showcase in Athens, these designer-esque trainers created quite a buzz when they hit stores. You might be thinking: high-street trainers? But trust me on this. With a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and trendsetting designs, in my opinion, COS's trainers exceed those of their competitors. Crafted from a 100% suede exterior with a soft leather lining, they closely resemble the previously mentioned Dries Van Noten sneaker but feature a slightly squared toe and a thicker, ridged rubber sole with leather accents. They function beautifully as a blend of the vintage Nike Cortez running style and the sporty silhouette of the Adidas Taekwondo.

       True to size, I found them surprisingly comfortable. They fit snugly with thick socks, but not too tight (and keep in mind, leather trainers will soften over time). Each color option feels modern without