In a sneaker culture that’s full of hype, now more than ever, it’s easy to get pushed in the direction of the most coveted sneaker model releases of the year. Let this list serves as a friendly reminder of the sneakers that are essential to every rotation. Multimedia Editor Christopher Claxton reports
Disclaimer: When I say “everyone,” I mean it! Sneakerheads, Moms, Dads, whoever. These sneaker models are a necessity for anyone who wears sneakers. Before we go any further, I’m not suggesting that you go out and buy all ten sneaker models.
What I mean is, if you’re going to buy that particular someone some sneakers this holiday season, they should be one of the models on this list. This list is in no particular order and is solely my opinion. If you disagree with my top ten, please explain why in the comments section below.
Air Jordan 11
The Jordan 11 will always be one of the best holiday footwear. Every year, sneakerheads wait until November and December to get their hands on that year’s 11’s. The shoe was first launched in 1995, and fans have been raving about them ever since. The Jordan 11 “Bred” colorway became Nike’s best-selling sneaker in the company’s history in 2019.
Nike Air Force 1 Low
Simply put, the Air Force One is legendary. If the word iconic referred to a shoe, it would be the AF1. A genuine classic designed by Bruce Kilgore and released in 1982 — it took the world by storm. It’s a Harlem staple referenced as “Uptowns.” The Nike Air Force 1 may be found on the feet of millions of people, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.
Adidas Superstars
The Adidas Superstar was created in 1969 as a basketball shoe and, like most sneakers on this list, has remained relevant over the years. Because of the rubber shell-like toe, they have been dubbed “shell tops,” “shell shoes,” or “shell toes” by the culture. The buzz surrounding these began in 1980, when Run D.M.C. named the superstar their signature sneaker, resulting in the shoe becoming a staple within the Black community, particularly in the South Bronx. The group wore them without laces and protruded the large tongue. In 1986, they recorded a song called “My Adidas,” which helped to popularize the sneaker.
Nike Air Jordan 1 High
The Jordan 1 high is one of my favorite sneakers of all time. It’s a shoe that changed the sneaker game forever. Being the first of their kind they revolutionized the way the NBA viewed basketball sneakers. They were banned at first since it was a rule that players only wore white or black shoes and match their teammates but, Jordan broke that rule down, eventually. the black and red colorway known as the “Breds” brings about the memory of a young player just getting his foot in the door of the NBA, becoming an all-star, and solidifying the sneaker’s importance. The Jordan 1 Highs are an absolute must-have. If you don’t have a pair, you need to get one ASAP but remember, get the highs.
Air Jordan 3
The Jordan 3 debuted in 1988 and has since become one of the most popular Air Jordan models ever made. It’s the first Air Jordan with a visible Nike Air logo. The Jordan 3 is a stylish sneaker with little branding. Jordan’s second in the collection combines sophistication and style. I have at least three pairs, so I’m confident that this shoe would be a good addition to anyone’s collection.
Air Jordan 4
Released in 1989, this basketball shoe is widely regarded as one of the best in history. The show was released in four different colors: “Bred,” “Fire Red,” “White Cement,” and “Military Blue.” In my perspective, they fit true to size and are quite comfy. They go crazy on feet, and anybody you give these to will be very grateful.
Salehe Bembury Crocs Pollex Clog
If you know me, you know how much I despise the Crocs clog. I think they’re the ugliest shoe EVER, but the Salehe Bembury Crocs Pollex Clog are beautiful. You can’t call me a hypocrite either since this shoe is a completely different model. These had to be on the list and I purchased two pairs, one for resale and one for retail. Who would have thought we’d ever pay resell for crocs? The Pollex Clogs can be dressed up with a fire fit or down with sweats. You make the call.
Tom Sachs Nike General Purpose Shoe.
This shoe may not be familiar to everyone, but I consider it a new age classic. The shoe is supposed to be dull; that was the entire marketing strategy. It’s supposed to be a lame everyday shoe that everyone needs and won’t resell, yet it’s the exact opposite. The GPS, or General Purpose Shoe, combines the legendary Waffle and the Killshot and has a high resell value on top. They just restocked, which is how I obtained my pair, so after-market prices might fall significantly after folks get their shoes.
Air Jordan 2
Another Jordan on the list. This one definitely earned its spot. The Air Jordan 2 is sometimes overlooked because it exists between the infamous Jordan 1 and the adored Jordan 3. Factor in Jordan’s lack of 2 releases, and the model slips from memory. However, this year had unquestionably been the year of the Jordan 2. I can think of seven pairs that came out this year off the top of my head. The Jordan 2 is an incredible pair of shoes, and Jordan brand is releasing them in high quality because they were always intended to be a classy luxury sneaker.