Not that you need to be reminded, but 2020 was a year in which everything, in comparison to the global pandemic, catastrophic disasters, social unrest, and divisive political elections, was downright trivial. We were all left to our devices (literally), consuming news of these events as they unfolded on screens right before our eyes. Online transactions ballooned to unpredictable rates, and “Add To Cart” became a form of therapy for many. Meanwhile, the restaurant and service industry took fatal blows as new corner bistros and decades-old institutions were forced into early retirement.
While society was burdened with hardships, it is hard to ignore that 2020 was a downright solid year for sneakers. It was projected to be one for the ages, considering the number of key storylines that were expected to unfold. The Olympic Games have consistenly been an opportune stage for industry leaders to flex their latest innovations, and the demand for more retro revivals meant that every brand in the game had a fair shot. Collaborations reached far and wide, with its breadth stretching beyond shops and individual designers to luxury fashion houses and ice cream brands.
So, as a bit of a recap of the year in sneakers, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Sneakers Of 2020. A wide range of criteria, including cultural impact, demand, and pure aesthetics were considered, as were a number of x-factors that truly separate the best from the rest. Of course, there more than ten sneakers that truly deserve attention for their own reason, so we’re also adding to the list with some “honorable mentions” voiced by select members of our staff, just to offer up the eclectic personal tastes that make up our squad.
Now, without further ado, here’s out 10 Best Sneakers Of 2020.
Yu-ming Wu:
Undefeated x Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What If?” Pack
Union x Air Jordan 4
WTAPS x New Balance 992
John Kim:
Sneaker Politics x adidas Forum ’84
Packer x Reebok Premier Trinity (Grey)
Undefeated x Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What If?” Pack
Michael Le:
Kiko Kostadinov x ASICS GEL-Kiril 1/2
WTAPS x Vans Vault “Crossbones” Pack
ASICS UB1-S GEL-Kayano 14
Jovani Hernandez:
Nike ACG Antarktik
Human Made x adidas Tokio Solar
AFFIX x ASICS Novablast (Brown)
Ji Choi:
thisineverthat x New Balance 2002R
Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 550
Kiko Kostadinov x ASICS GEL-Kiril 1/2