I have had it up to here with Vans Classic canvas sneakers. They played the role of canvas boat shoes or Sperry's in my wardrobe. But these classic, functional, unobtrusive-looking, versatile shoes are cheap pieces of garbage that I can't get to last more than three or so months without utterly destroying them, and yes I wear other shoes than just these. What they do preserve is my laid back vibe, but I can't believe I have bought so many pairs over the years.

So, I need a casual sneaker - the kind that can dress up ok with khakis and a blue Oxford for work (I have real shoes and clothes for actual work work, don't worry), and the kind that can walk the dog and go to barbecues and ride a bike to the coffee shop just fine.

I am thinking Adidas Sambas (I am not wild about black, though) or basic gray New Balance 997s.

Looking for classic, unobtrusive, versatile, and it turns out now, durable. what do you like?