About Best Sneakers Australia
Meet the passionate team dedicated to helping you find the perfect footwear
Our Story
Best Sneakers Australia was born out of a simple frustration: finding reliable, unbiased information about running shoes and sneakers in Australia was incredibly difficult. Too many websites seemed more interested in pushing products than genuinely helping customers find the right footwear for their needs. We knew there had to be a better way.
Founded in 2020 by a group of passionate runners and sneaker enthusiasts from Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, we set out to create the resource we wished existed. Our founding members include marathon runners who've logged thousands of kilometres in everything from budget trainers to elite carbon-plated racers, gym enthusiasts who've tested countless cross-training shoes through gruelling HIIT sessions and heavy lifting, and everyday Australians who simply want comfortable, stylish shoes that can handle our unique climate and lifestyle.
What started as a small blog sharing our personal experiences has grown into Australia's trusted destination for sneaker advice. We've tested over 200 pairs of shoes, written dozens of comprehensive guides, and helped thousands of Australians make informed footwear decisions. But our core mission remains the same: provide honest, practical advice that puts your needs first.
Our Testing Philosophy
We believe that the only way to truly evaluate a shoe is to put it through real-world conditions. That's why every sneaker we review undergoes extensive testing across multiple environments. Our running shoes hit the pavement along Bondi's coastal paths, tackle the trails in Victoria's Dandenong Ranges, and endure the humidity of Queensland's running tracks. We test training shoes through actual workout routines, from box jumps to deadlifts, and assess lifestyle sneakers through weeks of daily wear.
We pay special attention to factors that matter to Australian consumers: how shoes perform in high temperatures, whether they provide adequate breathability during our humid summers, how outsoles grip on both wet and dry surfaces, and how well they hold up to our outdoor lifestyle. We also consider practical matters like local availability, Australian sizing, and value for money in the local market.
Our reviews aren't based on manufacturer claims or spec sheets alone. We look at real-world comfort, durability over time, and how shoes perform when you're pushing yourself during that final kilometre of your run or the last rep of your workout. We share both the positives and negatives because we believe you deserve the complete picture before making a purchase.
Our Commitment to You
We're committed to maintaining our independence and integrity. While we do earn commissions through affiliate partnerships with retailers like Amazon, this never influences our recommendations. We'll always tell you if a shoe isn't worth the price, regardless of the potential commission. Our reputation depends on providing trustworthy advice, and we take that responsibility seriously.
Beyond reviews, we're passionate about education. We create comprehensive guides covering everything from understanding your foot type and gait pattern to proper shoe care and knowing when it's time for a replacement. Whether you're a first-time runner looking for your initial pair of trainers or an experienced marathoner seeking the latest performance technology, our content is designed to help you make smarter decisions about your footwear.
Meet Our Team
Our team brings together diverse expertise in running, fitness, sports science, and everyday sneaker culture. Together, we're united by our love for quality footwear and our commitment to helping fellow Australians find shoes that truly work for them.
Marcus Chen
Founder & Running Specialist
Former competitive marathon runner with 15+ years of experience. Has completed over 30 marathons and tested more than 100 running shoe models. Marcus specialises in performance running footwear and race day shoes.
Sarah Mitchell
Fitness & Training Editor
Certified personal trainer and CrossFit enthusiast based in Brisbane. Sarah brings her expertise in functional fitness to our training shoe reviews, testing shoes through real workouts and gym sessions.
James O'Brien
Lifestyle & Culture Writer
Sneaker collector and streetwear enthusiast from Sydney. James covers lifestyle sneakers, sneaker culture, and helps readers find the perfect balance of style and comfort for everyday wear.