Leonardo da Vinci once said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”, we couldn’t agree more. Here are 8 minimalist sneakers under $500.

By Vincent Teoh

Our Legacy Off Court Sneaker

Image via ourlegacy.se

The Off Court Sneaker from Scandinavian menswear label Our Legacy is a reworking of the classic tennis shoe design. The sneaker is constructed from premium Italian high polished leather with leather lining and insole. This menswear-approved sneaker is finished off with a reflective 3M label on the tongue. The shoe is available at the Our Legacy online store.

Filling Pieces Low Top Black Python

Image via gsrnnfillingpieces.com

Released as part of its Black Friday Pack, Amsterdam-based Filling Pieces recently released this Low Top model made completely of black python skin uppers. Built on a vulcanized MARGOM rubber cup sole, the sneaker features an inner cow leather sockliner with Filling Pieces artworks. Even though Black Friday is over, you can still cop a pair from Filling Piece’s online store.

Maison Kitsuné Canvas Sneaker

Image via mrporter.com

When in doubt, turn to a simple pair of white canvas sneakers. These timeless plimsolls are from the Parisian record label Maison Kitsuné. Made in Japan, the shoes feature a white canvas upper on an off-white rubber sole, paired with gold eyelets, and minimal branding is applied to the shoe heel and tongue. Available at the Mr Porter online store.

Common Projects Vintage Low Suede Grey

Image via tres-bien.com

Established in 2004, Common Projects has managed to maintain its relevance through the years. Minimalist designs, Italian craftsmanship and clean lines have kept these shoes on the feet of those who know how to look dressy without being over the top. Made of suede uppers and leather lining, these shoes also feature serial numbers at the side of the shoe, a common feature of Common Project’s branding. Available at the Tres Bien online store.

Buttero Leather Tanino Low Sneakers

Image from buttero.it

Founded in 1974, Tuscan footwear experts Buttero set out to make shoes of superior quality. A combination of Italian traditional shoemaking technique and superior vegetable-tanned leather, the Tanino Low is Buttero’s most sought after sneaker. Details include leather uppers on a vintage treated rubber sole, leather lining, laces and insoles. Purchase them directly from Buttero’s online store.

Eytys Mother Suede Sneaker

Image via tres-bien.com

From Stockholm-based brand, Eytys, comes the Mother Sneaker, which features a thick vulcanized rubber sole, cork insole and suede leather uppers. Each pair comes with two sets of laces and a dust bag. Purchase them from the Tres Bien online store.

Maison Martin Margiela 22 Classic Replica Sneaker

Image from endclothing.co.uk

Belgian designer Martin Margiela breathes new life into the German army trainers standard issue with the 22 Classic Replica Sneaker. With many exciting colorways and quality materials, the GAT replica has managed to retain its popularity over the years. The sneaker is made in Italy with premium Nappa leather and suede uppers, and lined with lamb leather lining. Available at the End Clothing online store.

Converse Jack Purcell Leather Ox Sneaker

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Ending off this list of choice minimalist shoes is the Jack Purcell Ox sneaker. The pair featured here is an upgraded version of the classic Converse shoe with leather uppers instead of canvas. These shoes pair perfectly with chinos for laidback weekends. The Jack Purcell Leather Ox sneaker is available at all Converse stores.