As we pass the midpoint of the year, it’s the perfect time to assess the standout sneakers of 2024. This year, the sneaker scene has seen a shift, moving away from the usual crowd-pleasers like flashy viral trends, standard retro releases, and perennial hypebeast favorites. What’s really capturing attention now are sneakers that showcase original design, premium materials, and clean aesthetics.
High-fashion collaborations are more vibrant than ever, with top design houses partnering with sneaker brands to reinvent classic models. New shapes and innovative materials are making a significant impact, signaling a fresh direction in sneaker culture. As traditional elements start to fade, exciting new alternatives are emerging.
Sneakers as we knew them are evolving. Here’s a look at the best sneakers of 2024 so far.
1. Air Jordan 1 1985
When it comes to iconic sneakers, the 1985 Air Jordan 1 truly deserves its year in the name. The quality and construction of the 1985 Jordan are far superior to those of modern releases, and despite being 36 years old, this shoe remains remarkably wearable—a rarity for its era.
Before Michael Jordan’s documentary “The Last Dance,” the market for 1985 Air Jordan 1s was relatively niche, with prices hovering around $1,000. However, the documentary skyrocketed their value, making it nearly impossible to find a pair for under $1,500 today.
What makes this sneaker stand out at number one is its legendary story. Each time Michael Jordan wore his Jordan 1s on the court, the NBA fined him $5,000. Nike responded by covering the fines, as long as Jordan continued to wear the shoes. This commitment to a single pair of sneakers endeared them to fans and secured their place at the top of our list.
2. Nike Air Force 1
The term “iconic” is often used, but when it comes to truly earning the title, there’s only one shoe that fits: the Air Force 1.
Available in five distinct variations:
- Superlow
- Low
- Mid
- High
- Super high
Regardless of the style, an all-white Air Force 1 is often seen as a blank canvas. It holds the record as the most customized shoe of all time and is central to numerous notable Nike collaborations.
3. Nike Dunk
First released in 1985 as a basketball shoe, the Dunk SB was conceived by designer Peter Moore as an evolution of the Air Force 1. This evolution marked the beginning of what is now regarded as a cornerstone of sneaker design.
Today, the Dunk craze is making a strong comeback. The market is abuzz with both classic colorways and exciting new designs. Nike SB Dunk sneakers are at an all-time high, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down.
4. Nike Air Yeezy 1
In 2009, Kanye West achieved a major milestone when Nike offered him a collaboration, marking a transformative moment in how artists partner with major brands.
The Air Yeezy 1 was so limited at launch that even Kanye himself struggled to secure a pair. Nike’s decision not to offer him the same royalties given to athletes ultimately led to a pivotal shift.
The highly anticipated Air Yeezy 2 Red October became a sneaker legend. Its release was repeatedly delayed, and when it finally launched, Kanye revealed that he was parting ways with Nike, leaving a lasting impact on the sneaker world.
5. Nike Air Max 1
The Air Max 1, introduced in 1987, was the breakthrough that launched Tinker Hatfield’s career. Originally designed as a running shoe, it quickly evolved into an iconic lifestyle sneaker.
In the early 2000s, the Air Max 1 became the centerpiece of several legendary collaborations with brands like Clot, Patta, and Kidrobot. Today, securing a pair from these influential releases could set you back over $3,000. While you might have once wanted to wear them, they’ve now achieved classic status, making them more likely to be showcased as prized collector’s items.
6. Adidas Yeezy 350 V1
Kanye West’s impact on fashion is undeniable, but his debut 350 sneakers in 2015 took everyone by surprise. Although some may disagree, this release marked a significant boost in the replica footwear market.
The design’s simplicity might have seemed straightforward to imitators, especially given the staggering profit margins when they first launched—prices started at no less than $1,500 per pair. Even now, counterfeit versions and non-existent colorways continue to flood the market.
7. Air Jordan III 1988
The sneaker industry underwent a seismic shift, not solely due to the Air Jordan III, but thanks to Tinker Hatfield. Often hailed as the father of sneaker design, Hatfield’s innovative silhouettes revolutionized the field. The Air Jordan III’s introduction of the iconic elephant print caused a frenzy, marking a turning point that reshaped the industry forever.
8. Adidas Superstar Pro-Model
Originally designed as a professional basketball sneaker in 1970, this Adidas shoe unexpectedly transcended its sport origins to become a staple in the hip-hop dance scene.
The 1980s saw Run-D.M.C. embrace the iconic silhouette, forever changing its trajectory. This groundbreaking collaboration marked the first time a non-athlete was signed by a sneaker brand, setting the stage for future artist partnerships. Many consider this crossover as the moment sneakers became a key element in African-American culture.
9. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
No discussion about iconic footwear is complete without mentioning the Chuck Taylor All Star. For over 113 years, Converse has been a must-have in the closets of sneaker enthusiasts everywhere.
Converse first introduced its basketball shoe in 1917, and it wasn’t until many years later that they faced serious competition in the basketball market. Over time, the Chuck Taylor evolved from a court classic to a staple in street style, earning its place in the fashion industry as a timeless icon.
10. Adidas Basketball Forum 1984
Kicking off our list is the Adidas Forum, originally launched in 1984 as a revolutionary basketball shoe. Available in both high and low-top versions, it features an adjustable velcro strap—a groundbreaking design choice for its time. While the bright blue colorway is iconic, the Forum was available in nearly every color imaginable.
The reason the Adidas Forum claims the number 10 spot on our list is due to its significant historical impact. While Nike often dominates sneaker conversations, it’s important to recognize that Adidas played a crucial role in driving innovation in the sneaker industry.
