Does anyone need more sneakers? One pair is probably enough, yet we still. Want. More. Luckily, regardless of what you’re looking for our weekly round-up of the hottest drops this week covers all basis.
From the latest hype release from Nike x Undercover to an updated take on the plain white trainer to chunky styles and basketball icons, these are our sneakers of the week.
Undercover x Nike Daybreak Bright Citron
Retro runners are having a moment, and Nike has been at the helm, pumping out a number of remastered updates on decade-old designs. Among them is the Daybreak, which celebrates its fortieth anniversary this year as it was first debuted in 1979.
It’s reimagining has proven so popular that Japanese brand Undercover got involved, creating its own take on the style in early 2019. This is the latest colourway to drop. It features the same distinctive details including the protruding heel clip and Undercover branding on the tongue and heel, updating the shoe’s minimal look with a modern edge.
Rarity Rating: 8/10
Design History: Based on the original Daybreak of ’79
Best For: Sneakerheads looking for a hype trainer that’s within reach
The Best Of The Rest
Reebok Club C Revenge Plus
Yes, there’ll always be a place for ultra-minimal white sneakers with little-to-no branding, but they can be a little dull, can’t they? All it takes is a little bit of subtle colour and design and you’ve got a trainer that stands out as something a tad more individual, which is exactly what Reebok has done with this take on the Club C.
Featuring jade green piping with a slice of purple on the upper, as well as off-white suede panels, the soft white leather of these classic-looking sneakers belies the affordable price tag. For under £70, there are few ways your feet could look more stylish.
Rarity Rating: 4/10
Design History: Based on the original Club C of ’85
Best For: Those after simple, retro-inspired sneaks
Air Jordan 4 Cool Grey
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Jordan IV, arguably the most iconic basketball shoe of all time. To celebrate, the Jordan brand has been releasing new and OG colourways of the IV, including this Cool Grey example, which originally came out in 2004.
The minimal colour palette is accented by black and white details, to combine with the deep grey nubuck throughout. Pops of subtle colour can be found with ‘maize’ yellow on the tongue, sole and air unit on the heel, keeping them from being entirely monochrome.
Rarity Rating: 8/10
Design History: Re-release of the Jordan IV from 1989
Best For: Hardcore Jordan fans
Puma Palace Guard RHUDE Trainers
Continuing the basketball theme is these Puma Palace Guards, which have been made in collaboration with streetwear brand RHUDE.
One of four designs to make up the collection, these are the most wearable and minimal of the lot. A mid-grey and off-white upper is paired with a chunky gum sole, offering plenty of comfort and support, as well as a distinctive style.
Rarity Rating: 7/10
Design History: Based on the Palace Guard from the ‘80s
Best For: Streetwear/Basketball enthusiasts
Reebok Answer V Shoes
Forgetting the Air Jordan line, Basketball is a relatively untapped source of inspiration for shoes worn off-court. Tennis and running shoes have proved most popular when worn outside of their intended focus, but some of the most interesting designs hail from the hardwood.
NBA legend Allen Iverson’s signature shoe line with Reebok is one such gem throughout the early 2000s, and recently the British brand has sought to bring back some of the most sought-after designs. This is the Answer V, arguably the best of the bunch and perfectly suited to today’s chunky trainer obsession.
Rarity Rating: 6/10
Design History: Re-make of the Answer V from 2001
Best For: Basketball fans or chunky trainer aficionados