Fresh Pairs: Must-Have Sneakers for 2018
Spring hasn’t even sprung yet, but it’s never too early to start planning your new sneaker pick-ups for when the time comes to put your boots away and lace up a fresh pair. Even though most of us are still in a deep freeze, the sneaker world never stops, and a number of must-have models for 2018 have already dropped or are coming very soon, ensuring plenty of time for you to have a formidable new rotation at the ready when ideal weather arrives. This sneaker forecast for spring highlights a few of the models and brands that we’re predicting will be relevant all year long—from retro classics, to cutting edge technology, to high-end hype, and even a brand you may be getting your first introduction to.
CASBIA AWOL AP
A brand you might not yet know you need in your rotation, CASBIA is an independent Italian sneaker label that aims to create contemporary styles with traditional influence. And that’s exactly what you’ll get with their AWOL AP silhouette, featuring a bold, asymmetrical dual laced and zippered enclosure at the top of the premium suede and/or leather construction. Sitting atop a chunky sneaker sole, the final product is somewhere between a futuristic hiking boot and high-fashion sneaker packed with tons of its own unique style. Be the first in your circle to hop on the CASBIA bandwagon. You’ll thank us later. Retail: $425
Nike Air Max 98
After a huge 20th anniversary celebration for the Air Max 97 last year, 2018 is primed to be a big year for the Air Max 98. The timing is actually perfect with the current hype around chunky, gaudy-looking sneakers with a late ‘90s/early 2000s vibe. This is going to make the Air Max 98 a must-have for the downtown crowd in addition to the shoe’s usual audience of Air Max and retro runner collectors. Two original colorways of the ‘98 are dropping early this year, and you can expect plenty more all-new looks for the big-bubbled runner throughout 2018. Retail: $160
Air Jordan 3 Retro “Black/Cement”
It’s releasing in February, but most in the know are already calling the return of the “Black/Cement” Air Jordan 3 the retro sneaker release of the year. One of the most iconic and beloved sneakers of all time, this latest return of the original black and elephant print colorway of the Air Jordan 3 from 1988 is even more special because it brings back the original “Nike Air” branding on the heel, absent for the last two releases of the shoe (2008 and 2010) after Jordan Brand decided to switch to Jumpman branding. In other words, EVERYBODY is going to be trying to get their hands on at least one pair. Fittingly, the Air Jordan 3 “Black/Cement” returns on Michael Jordan’s birthday, February 17th. Retail: $200
Karhu Fusion 2.0
Although they’ve been in business for over 100 years, Finnish sneaker brand Karhu is still relatively unknown in the USA. The brand is making major strides to change that, however, with their impressive line of retro running models built in premium suede and clean, ultra-wearable colorways. Karhu got a big push in publicity when Kanye West was surprisingly spotted wearing their Fusion 2.0 model in early 2017. Even before Kanye rocked them and drove up sales from hypebeasts, the Fusion 2.0 was already regarded as one of their best and most popular models. In 2018, we only see the demand for the brand continuing to grow. You can pick up your pair now at select US sneaker shops or online directly from Karhu. Retail: $140
Balenciaga Speed Trainer
The sock-like sneaker trend will show no signs of slowing down in 2018, and the holy grail of all models that fall under the category is still the Balenciaga Speed Runner. The traditional running shoe influenced sole unit combines with a one-piece high-top knit upper that’s extremely minimalist, yet stands out due to the unorthodox look. Even with more and more brands biting the Speed Trainer style and producing lower-priced sneaker options with a similar appearance, the Balenciaga version will always be the gold standard, and therefore the most sought-after. Retail: $695
Adidas FutureCraft 4D
If you’re a sneakerhead, there’s been no escaping adidas Boost technology over the last couple years—no matter how hard Nike loyalists try. The bouncy foam has truly taken over the industry, but the Three Stripes aren’t stopping there. The next innovation from adidas is FutureCraft, a 3D-printed midsole technology that might just revolutionize the way performance sneakers are made. The sneaker topping every adidas fan’s (and reseller’s) wish list this spring is the FutureCraft 4D, the brand new running shoe that combines a Primeknit upper with a “4D” printed sole unit, constructed with Digital Light Synthesis. What’s Digital Light Synthesis? According to adidas, it’s “a breakthrough process that uses digital light projection, oxygen-permeable optics, and programmable liquid resins to generate high performance, durable polymeric products.” We’ll take their word for it. The FutureCraft 4D released exclusively in the NYC area on January 18th, but expect them to drop in a wider range of locations soon. Retail: $300
Words by: Zack Schlemmer
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