The only constant thing is change, and that quote holds when talking about sneaker trends. Over the past year or so, it is evident that there has been a shift in the popularity of specific sneakers, or what sneakerheads and fashion gurus would consider to be trendy.
In previous years, streetwear and sportswear seemed to rule the fashion scene, with sneaker models such as the Jordan 1 and Nike Dunk dominating popularity. Moreover, the average consumer and dedicated sneakerhead would often gravitate towards shoes that had a high resale value or were extremely popular and worn by everyone.
More recently, however, it seems like there is a greater variety or diversity within the sneaker scene, and less of a monotonous approach to trends and fashion. People are beginning to wear what they like and what fits their personality, rather than hunting down whatever the most popular and expensive sneakers are on social media or StockX. In
addition, sneakerheads are becoming more varied in their approach, and have become less dependent on prevalent brands such as Nike and Jordan to fill out their collection.
Considering the shift in the sneaker scene, let’s look at some of the growing trends within the world of footwear.
RETRO: LET’S TURN BACK TIME
Recently, retro-style sneakers such as the Adidas Samba and Adidas Campus have rocketed in popularity—and for good reason too! They are both versatile and low-key and are complementary to a variety of outfits and styles. In addition, they are arguably solid beater shoes and can be worn every day without having to worry about their durability, longevity and appearance.
Many celebrities have been spotted rocking these retro-style sneakers, emphasizing the shift from loud, sporty, and expensive sneakers such as the Jordan 1, to a more neutral, affordable and low-maintenance sneaker such as the Adidas Gazelle.
ATHLEISURE: FORM AND FUNCTION COMBINED
A little less than a decade ago, Adidas popularized the athleisure sneaker trend with the once-popular Ultra Boost and NMD models. However, these sneakers and Adidas for the most part were overtaken by Nike and Jordan in the early part of the pandemic. Models such as the Jordan 1 and Nike Dunk weren’t the most comfortable, but they were popular for their striking colourways and more expensive resale value.
Fast forward to 2023, and the athleisure trend is slowly but surely making its way back into the sneaker scene. It is debatable that the trend was fuelled by the growing popularity of New Balance sneakers, such as the 990v3, 993, and 2002R. Originally marketed as running shoes, sneakerheads and celebrities alike have worn New Balances as lifestyle kicks, as they are both comfortable for everyday activities, and at the same time are extremely appealing visually.
Riding the athleisure trend, hiking and running shoes from brands such as Hoka and Salomon have exploded in popularity lately. Similar to New Balance pairs, these sneakers are dual-purpose in that they can be used in activities like running, hiking, and working out, but also can be used to complement casual wear and fashionable outfits.
The rise of this specific trend can also be exemplified by looking at Nike’s sales. While previously popular models such as the Jordans and Dunks are now sitting on shelves
across stores, running shoes fitting the athleisure vibe such as the Nike Zoom Vomero 5 are selling out quickly, and are also being featured by different fashion and sneakerhead influencers on social media.
MINIMALISM: KEEPING IT SIMPLE
As previously mentioned, more and more people are straying away from loud, attention-grabbing sneakers, and instead are vibing more towards the low-key, neutral pairs. Examples of popular minimal types of sneakers include the Adidas Stan Smith, Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Low-Top, and Veja Campo.
These sneakers are trendy because they are extremely versatile—dress them up with a suit for a wedding, or wear them when you need to get something at the corner store. As it’s been said so many times before, every person needs a clean pair of white sneakers in their rotation! In addition, these sneakers are typically very affordable and readily available in-store or online.
COLLABORATIONS: TWO IS BETTER THAN ONE
While a lot of recent sneaker trends have died down, one popular trend that shows no sign of slowing is collaborative projects between different brands. Popularized by sneakers such as the Jordan 1 x Off-White and the New Balance 550 x Aimé Leon Dore, sneaker collaborations are often coveted by sneakerheads for their unique take on general models.
Moreover, collaborations are seen as profitable investments, as they tend to hold a higher resale value due to their scarcity and dual-brand recognition. While the number of sneaker resellers has gone down due to the market downturn, the notion of sneakers as investments will likely never fade away.
Some of the best sneaker collaborations to recently release include the Tiffany & Co. x Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘1837’, JJJJound x New Balance 991 Grey, and the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low OG Olive.
SO, WHAT’S NEXT?
As with any market, it is extremely difficult to predict future trends and shifts in the popularity of specific items. In regards to the sneaker scene, one type of sneaker might be popular one week and be completely irrelevant the next!
Although this is the case, there is a high chance that the current overall state of footwear and fashion remains the same for the next couple of years or so—and this is honestly a good thing! Gone are the days when everyone was wearing the same sneakers, even when they didn’t like them personally or they didn’t match their overall outfit and vibe.
More and more people will continue to buy and wear the sneakers they like and will be less influenced by what they see on social media. Moreover, due to suppressed secondary prices, people will also be less swayed to buy specific sneakers solely for their resale value.
Overall, the sneaker scene is arguably in a better place, and future sneaker trends are sure to revolve more around creativity, diversity, and originality!
