2019 is already shaping up to be a very good year for sneakers. From forward-thinking new styles to an influx of rereleases and retros that genuinely deserve the hype, there's a lot that's worthy of your attention. As expected, big players like Nike, Adidas, and Jordan are all delivering everything from updated classics shoes to on-point collaborations. But that's just part of the equation. New Balance still knows exactly how to make dad shoes feel cool, Greats still delivers on value and sophistication, and specialized brands like Salomon are making us rethink our priorities. Here are the best sneakers of the year so far.
Nike React Presto 'Brutal Honey'
Reworking the Air Presto was a roll of the dice in theory, but the React version—especially in an old-school colorway—just plain works. Add in some incredibly comfy cushioning and you've got a winner.
Nike SB Dunk High 'Walk the Dog'
These shoes are ostensibly an homage to many different dog breeds, and that's cool. But notice the release date. And all that green on the upper. Yeah, there's that, too.
Nike x Heron Preston Air Max 720/95
The one you see here is just a single iteration of the many possible combinations that were available through Nike and Heron Preston's collaboration. It's all about keeping things personal.
New Balance x Bodega 997S 'No Days Off'
New Balance's 997 Sport got a remix courtesy of Bodega in April of 2019, giving the new style some very attractive colorblocking and a little extra street cred.
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 'Clay'
Adidas recently upped the production of a lot of the shoes in its collaborative line with Kanye West. While that seemed to introduce a bit of buyer fatigue at first, releases like the 350 V2 in "Clay" prove the partnership is still going strong.
Adidas Yeezy Boost 700 V2 'Geode'
The 700 takes the chunky sneaker trend and brings in the signature Yeezy aesthetic and super-comfortable Boost courtesy of Adidas. It's not exactly new, but it still looks good.
Nike Air Max 90 'Mars Landing'
The words "Nike" and "Mars" together tend to make most sneakerheads think of the brand's Mars Yard sneakers in collaboration with artist Tom Sachs. These AM90s are a good argument for thinking outside of that box.
Air Jordan IX 'Midnight Navy'
The Air Jordan IX is never unwelcome, and this February's "Midnight Navy" colorway was no exception. The combination of dark navy patent and clean white leather feels sporty and fresh.
Nike x Off-White Air Max 90
Nike and Off-White's collaboration has been going for a while now, but the AM90 from this February is solid evidence that it hasn't lost steam. Designer Virgil Abloh's aesthetic fits perfectly with riffs on the classic style in both black and a rich tan called "Desert Ore."