If you’ve ever spent time in L.A., you’ve likely noticed that Angelenos are always in athleisure. It makes sense—this is a city where you want to be in activewear so you can hike Runyon Canyon before breakfast, power walk the aisles of Erewhon by lunch, and make it to the beach in time for sunset. While L.A. fashion people rotate through activewear brands like Alo Yoga, Splits59, and Set Active, they have all settled on one sneaker trend: black and gray sneakers.
Yes, really. This understated color combination has quietly become the go-to choice for the city’s most stylish, including none other than Dakota Johnson. The actress was recently spotted in Malibu wearing a baseball cap—a favorite accessory among L.A. fashion girls—paired with black leggings, a graphic long-sleeve tee, and the cult-favorite Nike V2K Run sneakers in the black and gray colorway.
(Image credit: Backgrid)
On Dakota Johnson: Nike V2K Run Sneakers ($108)
So what exactly is it about these two-toned kicks that has fashion people trading in their all-black or all-gray options? Simple: dimension. All-black sneakers can sometimes fall flat, while all-gray pairs may feel too muted. The contrast between the two shades together adds just the right amount of depth, creating visual interest without veering into “trying too hard” territory. The gray softens the black, making them feel lighter, fresher, and perfect for sunny days.
Feeling inspired to add the shoe trend dominating L.A. to your lineup? Continue scrolling to shop the best black and gray sneakers on the market.
Shop the Nike V2K Run Sneakers
Jennifer Lawrence and Kaia Gerber are also fans of this sneaker style.
Shop the Black and Gray Sneaker Trend
New Balance
1906r Sneakers
New Balance sneakers are not only incredibly chic but also exceptionally comfortable.
Salomon
Xt-6 Gore-Tex Sneakers
The It sneakers of 2025—trust me.
No, we’re still not over Sambas.
New Balance
9060 Sneakers
You can never have too many pairs of New Balance sneakers.
on
Cloudsurfer Trail Sneakers
These may be designed for trails, but they would also work for city streets.
Salomon
Xt Pathway 2 Sneakers
Celebrities are currently fixated on Salomon sneakers. I couldn’t even begin to count how many of them own these shoes; there are simply too many.
Nike
Air Max Muse Women’s Shoes
For those who dress boldly.