THE JOURNAL
There are certain things that money can’t buy. More clement weather and long summer days, for instance, or the ability to have your holiday gift shopping sorted at the snap of a finger (although we’re working on it). But what it can buy is those things that’ll help make the glum, colder months ahead that bit more pleasant – winter essentials, hibernation must-haves and, of course, sneakers.
If you’re familiar with the ever-changing sneaker world, but can’t quite keep up with it, you’re in the right place. No idea what’s cool anymore? You don’t need to know. From reworked terrace classics to track-inspired styles, these six sneakers are the kind of shoes that have been around for a while – but that have now found a new buzz, feeling as hype-worthy as ever. Durable, comfortable, naturally versatile, and nothing less than, ahem, kicking. See for yourself below.
01. Samba by adidas Consortium x Wales Bonner
adidas’ collaboration with London-based designer Ms Grace Wales Bonner has been all the rage in recent months. The capsule footwear, which includes this pair of burgundy Sambas, is sure to fly off MR PORTER’s virtual shelves. The cult classic is reworked with Wales Bonner’s logo and signature crochet stitch along the oversized tongue and heel tabs.
02. BBall Duo by Common Projects
White, understated sneakers can be styled with absolutely anything, so any stylish footwear collection should include at least one pair. Don’t mind if we suggest these Common Projects’ – the side stitching and toecap perforations subtly nod to basketball styles, adding a touch of character and retro appeal.
03. GEL-KAYANO 14 by ASICS
If you favour the track over the court, consider ASICS’ GEL-KAYANO. They’re created with runners’ comfort in mind, with breathable mesh inserts, padded ankle collars and cushioned midsoles with GEL technology, but designed with an everyday design approach that won’t look out of place on the city streets.
04. Zoom Vomero 5 by Nike
Nike’s Zoom Vomero 5 was brought into fashion’s orbit by A-COLD-WALL*’s Dr Samuel Ross, who put his own twist on the running-inspired silhouette. The model has since been reimagined in a variety of colourways. Use this white and beige pair to add a hint of colour and texture to your casual outfits.
05. 2002RD Protection Pack by New Balance
New Balance is responsible for making “dad shoes” cool again – and the 2002RD Protection Pack is a case in point. The panels of leather, nubuck and ripstop add a textural element to an otherwise neutral silhouette, whose original version is updated with a toggled lacing system and ABZORB midsoles for comfort.
06. Dice Lo by Axel Arigato
If you’re on the market for something that’s sporty and comfortable, but still smart enough to wear with tailored trousers and elevated basics, opt for Axel Arigato’s Dice Lo. Referencing vintage styles, it has slightly chunkier soles and a responsibly produced lining made using recycled PET bottles and recycled plastic.