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Seven Fresh Sneakers To Add Some Spring To Your Step
Words by Ms Danai Dana
12 March 2024
Looking for ways to spruce up your spring wardrobe? A fresh pair of sneakers will do the trick. Whether you need a new go-to pair of athletic-inspired shoes or want to experiment with an unusual silhouette, here are seven options that will send you running for your wallet.
01. The adidas Samba
First created in 1949, the adidas Samba started off as a football shoe for the 1950 Fifa World Cup in Brazil. After catapulting into the zeitgeist these past few years, the Samba has retaken its position as main character – dominating trends, one collaboration at a time. And although Wales Bonner and Humanrace have delivered some incredibly exciting designs, sometimes nothing beats the OG minimalist colourway of black and white.
02. The New Balance 2002R
We have come a long way since the 2011 romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love in which Mr Ryan Gosling throws Mr Steve Carell’s New Balance sneakers off of a mall balcony. The classic running shoe from the early 2000s has evolved into a fashion favourite. This 2002R option, made with Gore-Tex material, in a neutral colourway of brown and cream, would look great with chunky socks, chinos and an oversized tee.
03. The ASICS GEL-NYC
An alternative to the 2002R running shoe is the GEL-NYC by Japanese brand ASICS. Established in 1949 by Mr Kihachiro Onitsuka, who made basketball shoes out of his home, the brand has successfully maintained this legacy with innovative engineering and striking silhouettes. A shoe that nods to 2000s running styles, the GEL-NYC is made from mesh, faux leather and suede, and with a combination of lightweight foams and the brand’s GEL technology, it’s hyper comfortable.
04. The Salomon XT-4
You can’t go wrong with the XT-4, the go-to sneaker for any trail (or city) adventure from French mountaineering brand Salomon. Crafted for muddy, rugged terrains, the XT-4 is durable and waterproof, made with an abrasion-resistant TPU material and Mud Contragrip soles for maximum grip so you don’t trip on your escapades.
05. The Nike Vomero 5
Running sneakers are not going anywhere in 2024. The retro running nostalgia continues with the Nike Vomero 5. This silhouette is made with the brand’s Zoom Air cushioning for extra bounce and a fun Y2K design in a handful of colourways. Use this plum and pink option to add a pop of colour to any neutral outfit.
06. The Balenciaga 3XL
From exaggerated shoulders to exaggerated shoes, Balenciaga is a house of extremes. The brand’s 3XL sneaker, with its signature brutalist, unorthodox silhouette, is a showstopper. Style this gothic all-black colourway with white or colourful socks for contrast. And as this shoe has quite a hyperbolic shape, it needs clothes with energy as well – some baggy bottoms and an oversized jacket would look best.
07. The Axel Arigato Rush
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Swedish brand Axel Arigato combines Scandinavian and Japanese minimalism in its pieces, bringing timeless styles that don’t shy away from comfort. The Rush sneaker, which takes inspiration from vintage running shoes, in this creamy colourway, crafted from mesh and suede, would pair well with an all-white fit.
