Essential Sneakers
From Neutral Staples to Peacocky Color Combos, a Selection of the Most Exciting Sneakers in Recent Memory
Building a comprehensive sneaker wardrobe has become a kind of competitive sport, albeit one that often involves going toe box to toe box with bots rather than actual humans. But many of the best shoes on the market are not those flash-in-the-pan launches that come and go in the blink of an eye. Rather, it’s those silhouettes that are versatile enough for brands to return to over and over again with inventive new colorways or partnerships that update a beloved standard.
From neutral staples to peacocky color combos, these make up just a few of the most exciting sneakers in recent memory, including hyped-up collaborations and in-line classics. And watch SSENSE for upcoming launches.
Featured In This Image: New Balance sneakers.
There are plenty of celebrities doing sneaker collaborations, but Salehe Bembury shows why a good collab requires more than just a flashy name. The footwear designer is at the top of his game with his New Balance partnership, demonstrating his knack for inventive color combos.
Featured In This Image: Nike sneakers.
No one does deconstructed quite like Sacai’s Chitose Abe. Her ongoing Nike collaboration slices and dices the Swoosh, as seen here in her take on the Blazer with curvy eyestays and her signature double tongue.
Model wears New Balance sneakers.
The 2002R is showing itself to be an especially versatile style in New Balance’s arsenal, with a slew of new colorways and collabs in recent months. This SSENSE exclusive dresses the updated 2010 running shoe in luxe desert tones.
Model wears Rick Owens Drkshdw sneakers.
Rick Owens uses the Converse canvas as a chance to play with proportion, stretching and distorting the shoe’s silhouette until it’s slightly unrecognizable. It’s still a Converse, just as glimpsed in a funhouse mirror.
Featured In This Image: Maison Margiela sneakers.
Maison Margiela’s Reebok partnership shows just how well the brand’s trademark Tabi silhouette works with a classic sneaker. The distinct beige tone gives a new twist on the standard white kicks.
Featured In This Image: Nike sneakers.
While the body of the shoe conjures up retro running shoes, the Air Max’s trademark air bubbles in the sole give this style its futuristic edge. The sharp green and orange colorway manages to evoke ’70s earth tones with a modern touch.
Featured In This Image: New Balance sneakers.
New Balance’s 990v3 is anywhere and everywhere for good reason. The wardrobe staple is the perfect meld between streamlined and chunky, making it a standout in the beloved 990 series.
- Date: December 1, 2022
