by Giulia Piceni, Alice Alves Pinho Joazeiro, and Agnete Bay Blichfeldt. Cover image by Rhone Philip Malcolm Spink-Knight.
In recent years, sneakers have lost their once-dominant position in fashion discussions. The hypebeast era—defined by an insatiable demand for limited-edition colourways that could turn a $100 shoe into a coveted grail—has largely faded. In its place, the industry has embraced a more restrained approach, favouring classic silhouettes where the only embellishments are subtle pattern changes, far removed from the flamboyant trends of the mid-2010s.
However, current trends suggest that sneakers may be regaining popularity. For example, the recent Louis Vuitton runway show suggests that streetwear is making a comeback, albeit in a more refined form. While the attitude remains rooted in hip-hop culture, the aesthetic has shifted toward a more understated, polished expression—aligning with the broader trend of minimalism and the rise of “quiet luxury,” reflecting a subtle embrace of simplicity.
Sneaker Culture Reimagined: Classic Styles Meet Minimalist Aesthetics
This shift is further exemplified by Brenda Weischer, Editor-in-Chief of 032C and a prominent influencer known for her extensive collection of Maison Margiela’s tabi boots. In collaboration with Adidas, she has reinterpreted the iconic Superstar in worn-out black leather, staying true to her signature aesthetic. The promotional campaign leaned into her reputation, with Weischer herself posting, “I don’t even wear sneakers. Go buy them.” This statement subtly acknowledges that while trainers may not be a staple of her wardrobe, this particular release is one to watch.
9 Hottest Sneakers That Are Under The Radar
1. Bekett by Isabel Marant
Love them or hate them, Isabel Marant’s Bekett sneakers remain undeniably influential. The sight of Victoria Beckham and Rihanna wearing them in the early 2010s is unforgettable, while Beyoncé’s Love on Top video cemented their status as a must-have item. Blending athleisure with high fashion, these sneakers bridged the gap between Indie Sleaze and Hypebeast culture, prompting brands like Nike and Adidas to follow suit. Designed for both comfort and added height, the Bekett redefined sneaker culture and left a lasting mark on fashion history. Recently, they have made a comeback as a trend on TikTok, and we’re all for it!
2. Ramones by Rick Owens
Blurring the lines between punk heritage and high fashion, the Rick Owens Ramones have cemented their status as an iconic sneaker. Inspired by the Converse Chuck Taylor—known for its association with rock and rebellion—Owens elevates the silhouette with exaggerated proportions and the premium materials that are characteristic of his craftsmanship. The signature elongated tongue and occasional distressed finishes evoke the raw energy of the Ramones’ anti-establishment ethos, making these sneakers a cult favourite for those who embrace bold, unconventional style.
3. PUMA Black Suede
The Black Suede sneaker from Puma is an iconic shoe that deserves a spot on any list of legendary footwear. It rose to instant fame during the 1968 Olympics in Mexico, when Tommie Smith won gold in the 200m sprint. The athlete stood on the podium holding his winning Pumas in one hand and raising his other hand in a Black Power salute. This moment turned the shoes into a political statement for Afro-American citizens fighting for equal rights. Throughout the 1980s, the Black Suede became a staple in hip-hop, skate, and graffiti culture, walking the urban cityscape. Today, it remains a stylish classic.
4. Adidas Samba
In recent years, Adidas Samba sneakers have become truly ubiquitous. It is hard to believe that this iconic shoe dates back to the 1950s, originally designed for German football players who needed optimal footwear for slippery conditions. We can only be grateful for the rainy weather in Germany that season! The version we recognise today was first introduced in 1972. In the spring of 2021, A$AP Rocky made headlines when he was spotted wearing a pair, and when Bella Hadid started flaunting the sneakers in 2022, they quickly emerged as the trendiest shoes of the year. According to current trend forecasts, their popularity shows no signs of waning anytime soon.
5. Converse All-Star, Chuck Taylor
The Chuck Taylor sneaker, recognised as the very first mass-produced basketball shoe, it first became popular in the 1920s. A hundred years later, it continues to be a staple in fashion. The earliest versions of the sneaker were available in black canvas or leather, but since then, Converse has expanded its range with all kinds of colours, decorations and patterns. Its simple design has led to numerous brand collaborations. The shoe experienced a significant resurgence during the pop-indie-emo era of the early 2010s, often paired with extremely skinny jeans. What a wave of nostalgia it brings!
6. MIU MIU x New Balance
One of the most recent sneaker designs that has made it to this list is the collaboration between Miu Miu and New Balance from last year. Featuring a slim, simple design, these shoes tap into the current trend by combining earth-toned normcore aesthetics with light-footed elegance. As is typical with Miu Miu, the design incorporates a playful element, highlighted by double shoelaces in different patterns and colours, which has earned this sneaker the status of an absolute “it” shoe.
7. Air Jordan by NIKE
More than just a pair of sneakers, the original Air Jordan, a collaboration between Nike and basketball legend Michael Jordan, represented the crossover of basketball from a sport into a fashion phenomenon. It sold the idea that wearing them could make you feel unstoppable, much like Jordan himself, fundamentally revolutionising the sneaker industry. Furthermore, the mainstreaming of these sneakers is closely connected to the rise of hip-hop culture in the 1980s and 1990s, as well as the broader black movement. The influence of these sneakers has grown to such an extent that they remain a significant fashion statement today.
8. New Balance 576
These sneakers are suitable for everyone—from your 80-year-old grandfather to your dad, who prioritises comfort over style, and even your cool, fashionable older sister. Since their release in 1988, these classic sneakers have remained popular, proving that the perfect balance of comfort and style is the key to creating an iconic pair, and New Balance understands this concept well.
9. Reebok, The Pump
Pump it up! We can’t forget to mention Reebok in this list. This brand made a significant impact on the sneaker market by introducing a versatile pair that can be used for various sports. Their innovative technology provides wearers with exceptional support, setting them apart from previous models. The Pump sneakers quickly gained popularity, and basketball culture adopted them as a symbol of the sport. Their design was so revolutionary at the time that it continues to serve as a reference for many brands even today.
