Champion Originals
Before realizing that Keds was a women-specific brand, I associated it with the women in my life. My mom, my grandmother, my sisters, and my cousins have each, at one point or another, been recorded in my memory running around the backyard or watering flowers on our home's sunny porch in slight white sneakers. I enjoy thinking of them while wearing my own pair. And I'm happy to know that, unlike most companies, Keds team is comprised of mostly women.
As an adult, the things I love about Keds haven't changed much since being a kid. They're versatile enough for any outfit, cheap enough to regularly re-up if they're worn into the ground, and there's something wonderful about functional, rubber-soled sneakers that are simultaneously so lightweight and feminine in style. They're the perfect choice for sundresses, loose jeans, and everything in between. —Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter
Studio Jumper
Keds' foray into athleisure-esque styles through its Studio Collection is a successful yet underrated part of the brand that I wish more people knew about. The intersections of style, performance, and comfort are best highlighted in the slip-on Studio Jumper sneaker, which comes in four attractive colors: white, peach, light pink, and light gray.
I opted for the gray one, and it has become the easiest shoe to pull on in the mornings — the light color goes with everything, they look casual but they're also more sleek than a full-on running sneaker, and I can walk for miles in them with no complaints.
The stretch knit uppers give a sock-like fit that mold to your feet, but are also breathable, and elastic bands wrap over the fronts for an additional layer of support. Despite the close fit, you can still wear socks with your usual size since the material is stretchy. Meanwhile, the foot beds and soles are made from lightweight, cushioned foam, plus Keds adds neoprene padding at the heel for even more comfort. Because they're so light, they make a great travel or summer sneaker. —Connie Chen, Insider Picks reporter
Double Decker
As much as I love sneakers, I never had tried a pair of Keds until recently — I was always more of a Converse girl. After learning more about the company's history, though, I’m excited to rock my new pair of Keds. Keds released the first ever women’s sneaker in 1916 — and you can still find that classic Champion style worn today.
While I loved learning about how Keds puts their motto, Ladies First, into action, there’s got to be more than just a great mission to keep a business running for over 100 years. It’s all about the product, and Keds really are great. They’re doing well at making simple, cute styles that are comfortable and affordable.
I didn’t realize, though, that Keds had so many other options besides their classic Champion style. I tried the Double Decker Slip-Ons in a nice light gray color that’s perfect for spring. They have a perforated detail on the suede that adds some interest, and the inside of the shoe is super comfortable, thanks to Keds' new Dreamy Foam cushioned footbed. If you’re between sizes though, I would choose the bigger one, as I did find them a little tight. But, I think the suede will stretch with wear, so I’m excited to bring these out come spring. —Remi Rosmarin, Insider Picks reporter
