A leisure day out may seem far away now, but here’s some motivation for you to stay at home and look forward to the end of the pandemic restrictions—new shoes. Not just any shoes, but fancy kicks that are strikingly stylish yet comfortable. From futuristic sneakers to pumped-up classics, our list of footwear—from Dior, Balenciaga, A|X Armani Exchange, Asics x Vivienne Westwood, Gucci, Valentino, and Louis Vuitton—makes the perfect pay-day splurge.
Shop them below:
Dior-ID
A chunkier take on the classic tennis sneakers, the Dior-ID was introduced by creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri as part of the Maison’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection. The fresh kicks are crafted in smooth calf leather that’s juxtaposed with bright colour inserts, and finished off with a rubber tongue that conceals the laces. Each design is complete with an embossed gold label that has a three-dimensional effect.
Balenciaga X-Pander
Step aside Triple S—there’s a new sneaker in town, and it’s called the X-Pander. Launched during SS21, the kicks are characterised by the exposed spring structure on their soles, which will guarantee to put a spring in your step (no pun intended). Upper-wise, the design exudes that early ‘00s feel, thanks to the stone-washing process that gives it a pre-worn look. These new It-shoes come in a wide range of colourways, which further amps up their appeal.
A|X Armani Exchange
For Spring/Summer 2021, A|X Armani Exchange has launched an array of sneakers that will satisfy any sneakerhead. Like the clothing in collection, the designs of the footwear take cue from urban street culture without straying too far from the brand’s DNA. From colourful chunky kicks to sleek monochrome trainers, they make the perfect wardrobe for both men and women.
ASICS x Vivienne Westwood Gel-Kayano 27 De
To mark the end of both brands’ collaboration this year, Asics and Vivienne Westwood have saved the best for last with the release of the exclusive Gel-Kayano 27 De. Wanting to celebrate the craftwork behind the design, the luxury fashion house’s creative director Andreas Kronthaler decodes the sneakers’ specialised framework. Result? Kicks that showcase its technical form while embodying a mix of Westwood’s DIY aesthetic and deconstruction style.
Gucci Basket
Can’t get enough of high-tops? Gucci has launched its iteration of a basketball shoe that’s aptly named the Gucci Basket. Sticking to the brand’s sustainability strategy, the sneakers are mainly crafted from a new innovative eco-friendly material, as well as sustainable and renewable sources. Available in three colour and fabric combinations, each pair features a combo of mixed materials that give off different allure.
The collection will be available mid-June 2021.
Valentino Garavani One Stud
After making their debut in Valentino’s AW21 collection, the One Stud sneakers are finally here. Made from nappa leather using the maxi quilting technique, each pair’s key detail lies in the oversized Roman Stud that sits at the side of the shoe. The studs—which can be found throughout the accessories collection—are the perfect embodiment of the Italian House’s romantic, punk, and not comformist ‘tude. Take your pick between the low-top and mid-top designs in three different colour combinations.
Louis Vuitton LV Trainer
Inspired by vintage basketball sneakers, Men’s artistic director Virgil Abloh first presented the LV Trainer collection during SS19. Fast forward three seasons later, the sneakers continue to champion the Maison’s identity with the signature monogram embossed on the tongue, side, and back, but what’s different this round, is the blend of materials and patterns that come in a rainbow of bright colours. From dawn to sunset, the offerings reference the colours of a summer under the sun of optimism.
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