If you use social media, chances are that you have heard the term “sneakerhead”! Sneakers never used to be considered an accessory – no one really cared much about them. However, in 2022 they hold enough power to define your entire personality.
In addition to acting as a mode of expression, sneakers also hold some rich history. Iconic pairs like the Air Jordan 1 have been part of sporting events where legends like Michael Jordan redefined history. To this day, the hype and demand for these pairs remains high. You might be shocked to know that some people consider sneakers collectibles and tend to collect pairs as someone else would a rare watch or a car. The hype is real, for sure!
Understanding sneaker silhouettes and colourways
If you’re in the market for a new pair of sneakers, the chances of you feeling like a newbie are quite high (trust me, we’ve all been in that position), though if you understand the basics well, it’s all smooth sailing from there.
The 2 things you need to consider while choosing your sneaker are: Silhouette and colourway.
Silhouette: A silhouette, simply put, refers to the design/shape of the sneaker which gives it a character. One of the most famous silhouettes of all is the Nike developed Air Force 1. A shoe which has been adored by all for its simplistic yet designer look. Its silhouette has a versatile character which people love to pair with multiple outfits.
Colourway: A colourway, as the name suggests, refers to the colour combination that a shoe is produced in. For example, Air Force 1 (a silhouette) comes in white, blue, green, red, etc. Here, the colours blue, green, red and white, refer to the colourway in which a specific shoe is produced.
People generally have a favourite silhouette and collect different colourways with the same silhouette as it allows them the freedom to wear the same shoe with multiple outfits, without worrying about it matching.
How to determine a quality sneaker
Now that you know what a silhouette and a colourway is, the next step is a crucial one as it determines the purchase decision for many. That’s right, I’m talking about the more practical bit of the shoe – quality.
A quality sneaker is determined by multiple factors, though the most obvious ones are the materials used and comfort levels. People usually prefer to shop in footwear in stores as most of us want to feel the shoe in person. Touching the materials helps us determine if the shoe is worth the price, and a small walk in them helps us determine the comfort levels.
Generally, quality shoes tend to have leather and suede on the upper soles and feel soft upon touch. The base of the shoe is usually made of rubber or gum as these materials provide some of the best comfort while walking. Companies have tried to develop new materials for the base to provide utmost comfort.
Another thing to look out for is the insole of the sneaker. Some have great cushioning in them, which gives that walking-on-cloud like feeling, which is heavily advertised in adverts.
Top sneakers for 2022
Well, now that you know what to look for in a quality sneaker, it’s time to choose the best one for you. To relieve you of the pain of scouring thousands of stores and websites, we took the liberty of compiling a list of the best sneakers to buy in 2022, based on the new offerings and popularity in the market:
- Nike Air Force 1
Nike’s Air Force 1 is one of the most iconic pairs of all time. A pair that is mostly bought in white colourway, this sneaker has become the people’s favourite. Due to its versatile styling, it can match with almost every outfit you may have in your wardrobe. Cushioned insoles coupled with leather upper soles, this sneaker is an all-rounder by Nike.
Retail price: £99.95 Onwards
Where to buy: Nike Online, Nike SNKRS and Offline Stores - Nike Air Max
Air Max was built with comfort and style in mind. A sneaker which looks like a designer’s masterpiece, this shoe looks futuristic, thanks to its air sole (yes, a literal air cushion underneath your feet) which provides ultimate comfort when you go for a run or a walk in them. Once done with the workout, change into a denim with a breezy tee, and this shoe would still complement your party outfit!
Retail price: £125+
Where to buy: Nike Online, Nike SNKRS and Offline Stores - Nike Air Jordan 1
One can never go wrong with a pair of Air Jordan 1. An iconic silhouette, which is adored by all and is the baby of sneaker collectors, the Air Jordan 1 was launched back in 1985 and has stayed on the top ever since. People pair these with almost every outfit, even dressier formals. This sneaker comes in three ankle lengths (low, mid, high) and in umpteen colourways, proving there is a unique pair for almost everyone.
Retail price: Lows £99.95+, Mids £109.95+, Highs £152.95+
Where to buy: Nike Online, Nike SNKRS and Offline Stores - Adidas Yeezy 350
If you know Kim Kardashian’s ex-husband Kanye West, chances are that you must have heard the name Yeezy. The Adidas Yeezy 350 is a brainchild of Kanye and is one of the most comfortable sneakers on the market, presently. The upper sole is made of primeknit technology, which utilises flat knitting machinery combined with synthetic yarns and the midsole utilises Adidas’s BOOST Technology, which gives it the industry leading comfort. Available in multiple colourways, Yeezy 350 is a timeless sneaker that can be paired with almost anything!
Retail price: £220+
Where to buy: Adidas Online, Adidas Confirmed App, Adidas Offline Stores - Nike Air Jordan 4
Another Nike on the list, the Air Jordan 4 is a basketball sneaker that has a pop culture relevancy, thanks to it being adored by the rappers. Similar to Air Jordan 1, it is available in umpteen colourways and due to its high cut, it supports the ankle and provides great comfort while walking! Available in top quality materials like suede and leather, this sneaker is a must have!
Retail price: £164.95+
Where to buy: Nike Online, Nike SNKRS and Offline Stores - Adidas Superstar
Adidas Superstars are one of the most widely known sneakers. The 3 stripes of Adidas were made famous by this silhouette and has been going strong ever since it was first launched 50 years ago. The swanky rubber toes and non-marking soles make these sneakers comfortable to wear for long durations. With great colourways and iconic collaborations from the likes of Prada, this one is a head turner for sure!
Retail Price: £80+
Where to Buy: Adidas Online and Offline Stores - New Balance 550
At first glance, the New Balance 550 may look like a dad sneaker. But if you have a good eye and a good sense of fashion, chances are that you can pair this sneaker with multiple outfits. Coupled with the solid comfort levels of New Balance and extremely good quality materials, this shoe is a seriously recommended. Pulling off a streetwear outfit in these would be a breeze!
Retail price: £110+
Where to buy: New Balance Online and Offline Stores - Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star needs no introduction on this list. We all must have seen these around in our schools, colleges or even parks and are popular to this day. These are one of the easiest pairs to style as they sport a classic design, which complements even the simplest of outfits. An ankle length cut provides great support to feet and the cushioned insole is a pillow.
Retail price: £60+
Where to buy: Converse Online and Offline Stores, -
Vans Old Skool
Vans Old Skool is one of the most iconic skating shoes that the World has ever witnessed. Launched in 1977, the Old Skool might seem like an old shoe, but in reality, the timeless design still screams of youth. This sneaker, with its fabric upper sole and gum and rubber outsole, is an easy, comfortable and an affordable option to upgrade your style. You can never go wrong with this one!
Retail Price: £65+
Where to Buy: Vans Online and Offline Stores -
Nike Dunk
The Dunks might be last on this list, but aren’t any less fantastic than the sneakers above. These sneakers are a favourite skateboarding shoe as the amount of grip and comfort that these provide is unparalleled. In recent times, this shoe has regained its popularity thanks to Nike’s marketing campaigns and strategic positioning in the market. The Nike Dunk comes in two ankle lengths (low and high) and has some of the best materials on them, depending on which colourway you choose. You also get the option to customise these Dunks to your liking on Nike’s online store.
Retail price: £89.95 +
Where to buy: Nike Online, Nike SNKRS and Offline Stores
Still confused about which sneaker to buy?
It is quite possible that even after these recommendations, you still can’t decide on your next sneaker purchase. You might be spoilt for choice or perhaps like a different sneaker which isn’t on this list. Remember, sneakers are an expression of your personality and you should not be bound by anyone’s choice. Buy what you like and enjoy wearing them. Oh, and don’t forget to let us know about your favourite sneakers on our social media channels!
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