Influencers are singing the praises of Golden Goose sneakers in countless TikTok videos because of the brand’s lived-in, distressed and scuffed-up look. Some admire the worn-in aesthetic of the sneaker, while others mock it. The sneakers, however, come with a hefty price tag that doesn’t thrill most shoppers.
Despite its design and cost, we love the uniqueness of the casual-looking sneaker, especially since some of our favorite celebs (Selena Gomez, Jacob Elordi and Taylor Swift) swear by them.
Why Are Golden Goose Sneakers So Popular?
For anyone not familiar with Golden Goose, it’s an Italian shoe brand founded in 2000 by Alessandro Gallo and Francesca Rinaldo. Its design is inspired by the skating culture and the atmosphere of American colleges in the ’70s and ’80s and also an homage to the founders’ Italian heritage.
With that in mind, the duo created a handcrafted designer shoe that would offer comfort and style while also remaining timeless. This led to Golden Goose sneakers, highlighting “perfect imperfection.” Not only would the sneaker’s distressed and worn-out designs set the brand apart from everyone else, but it would serve as a unique branding tool.
Golden Goose sneakers have a devoted fan base, even though they’re super pricey — A pair can cost anywhere from $300 to upwards of $1,800. Sure, you’ll find people willing to splurge, but most don’t want to take the plunge. Golden Goose has a small line of vegan leather options, but most are constructed with genuine leather, which can be off-putting, too.
While there’s really no substitute for an authentic pair of Golden Goose sneakers, we also have to pay our mortgage. Vintage Havana and ShuShop are the leading brands for scoring some of the best Golden Goose alternatives.
Golden Goose (GG) sneakers can’t be beaten for a vintage-y look and feel, but for anyone looking to jump on the “dirty” sneaker trend, these are the most popular GG sneaker styles and ones with a similar but cheaper vibe:
Golden Goose Hi Star Sneakers
Made from 100% cow leather, the GG chunky Hi Stars blend a classic and contemporary aesthetic. These sneakers feature exclusive treatments, unique colors and handwritten lettering around the foxing. Golden Goose styles range from minimalist designs to an explosion of allover glitter topped off with their iconic single star.
The GG Hi Star sneaker starts at $615.
Golden Goose Ball Star Sneakers
Taking a dive back to the ’80s and the atmosphere of American colleges, the Ball Stars are a timeless sneaker merging the world of basketball and skateboarding. Golden Goose puts their own take on the low-profile sneaker with glitter stars, bright colorways, recognizable special treatments and lived-in signature styles.
The GG Ball Star sneaker starts at $585.
Golden Goose Super-Star Sneakers
The shoe that started it all — Super-Stars launched the Golden Goose saga in 2007 and they’ve never looked back. These iconic sneakers put down roots and set the bar for other brands.
Today, the stylish sneaker has seen plenty of changes and upgrades since its debut but has remained true to its bones. From glitter and soft supple leather to laminated suede and Swarovski crystals, the Super-Star is a force to be reckoned with.
The GG Super-Star sneaker starts at $585.
Golden Goose Super-Star Dupes
Golden Goose Sky-Star Sneakers
Another ’80s-inspired basketball sneaker that’s inspired by the low profile Ball Star shape, the Sky-Star high-top oozes the same coolness as your favorite pair of Jordans, but with an authentic lived-in vibe that’s all Golden Goose. Kick it old-school with far less glitz and glamour than GG is known for and take your feet on an understated ride that only the Sky-Star can do.
The GG Sky-Star sneaker starts at $645.
Golden Goose Francy Sneakers
Going back to the decade before the ’80s-inspired Sky-Highs, Francy sneakers combine the essence of Venetian craftsmanship with the sneakerhead culture. Not completely unlike the Nike Blazer Mid ’77, Francy has unexpected details and special finishes that are true to Golden Goose. Whether it’s Swarovski microcrystals or glitter uppers you’re looking for, Francy promises not to disappoint.
The GG Francy sneaker starts at $595.
Golden Goose Francy Dupes
Golden Goose Mid Star Sneakers
The Italian Mid-Stars are the “fruit of the dream of creating a sneaker for every occasion,” going feet first against the grain with cool confidence. Once again, drawing from the ’80s skate scene and representing the epitome of elegance, these GG sneakers can go with you anywhere your feet take you.
The GG Mid Star sneaker starts at $615.
Golden Goose Mid Star Dupes
Golden Goose Running Sole Sneakers
The active world meets traditional Italian craftsmanship. The sporty spirit of Running Soles is crafted using high-quality materials. The hand-painted details of these women’s sneakers and the blend of textures and patterns make them unique in the urban fashion landscape. The running-inspired sole becomes an expression of style, interpreting our vision of streetwear elegance.
Men’s Golden Goose Sneaker Dupes
While ShuShop and Vintage Havana are excellent options for women’s dupes, Sepol is among the best for men’s GG dupes.
1. Sepol Estrella Sneaker
Usually, sneaker enthusiasts can tell right away when a pair of shoes are duped just by looking at them. However, these shoes from Sepol will have them questioning everything they know about sneakers. The footwear has a camo-colored, dirty canvas similar to Golden Goose and even features a logo on the side. Unfortunately, it isn’t a star, but it does resemble one at first glance.
2. Sepol Urban high-top Sneaker
The genuine leather Urban high-top sneaker takes trainers to the next level with handcrafted details that can be paired with virtually anything from jeans to khakis. This pair features peekaboo accents colors and mesh-style uppers while giving the nod to the nostalgia of ’80s basketball footwear.
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