2022’s Best Sneakers: Top 10 Releases Reviewed

Hey, sneakerheads! If you’re curious about the best sneakers of 2022, you’ve landed in the right spot. We’re about to embark on a journey through the top 10 sneaker releases that shook the sneaker world to its core. So, lace up and get ready for a deep dive!

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10. Gucci x Adidas Gazelle Indoor

Starting our countdown, the Gucci x Adidas Gazelle Indoor collaboration brought together two iconic brands, resulting in a sneaker that was as stylish as it was comfortable. The design combined Gucci’s signature luxury aesthetic with Adidas’ sporty Gazelle silhouette. The sneaker featured a mix of materials, including leather and suede, and Gucci’s iconic green and red stripes. This release was a testament to the potential of collaborations in pushing the boundaries of sneaker design.

9. Concepts x Nike SB Dunk Low ‘Orange Lobster’

Next up, the Concepts x Nike SB Dunk Low ‘Orange Lobster’ was a standout release, with its vibrant colorway and unique design. This sneaker was a testament to the creativity and innovation that both Concepts and Nike bring to the table. The ‘Orange Lobster’ design was a playful take on the classic Dunk silhouette, featuring a bright orange colorway and a lobster motif. This release was a reminder of the fun and whimsy that can be found in sneaker design.

8. Tom Sachs x Nikecraft General Purpose Shoe

The Tom Sachs x Nikecraft General Purpose Shoe was a testament to functional design. This collaboration between artist Tom Sachs and Nike resulted in a sneaker that was as practical as it was stylish. The design was inspired by Sachs’ philosophy of ‘bricolage’, a concept that involves creating or repairing things using whatever materials are available. The sneaker featured a mix of materials, including mesh and suede, and a chunky sole that provided comfort and durability. This release was a favorite among those who value both style and practicality.

7. Nike Kobe 6 Protro ‘Mambacita Sweet 16’

In honor of the late Kobe Bryant, the Nike Kobe 6 Protro ‘Mambacita Sweet 16’ was released. This sneaker was not just a tribute to a basketball legend, but also a testament to Nike’s commitment to quality and performance. The ‘Mambacita Sweet 16’ colorway was a nod to Bryant’s daughter, Gianna, who was also a passionate basketball player. The sneaker featured a snakeskin pattern, a reference to Bryant’s ‘Black Mamba’ nickname, and a number ‘2’ on the heel, Gianna’s jersey number. This release was a poignant reminder of the impact that athletes can have, both on and off the court.

6. Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 993 ‘Performance Art’

The Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 993 ‘Performance Art’ was a celebration of creativity and individuality. This collaboration between Joe Freshgoods, a Chicago-based designer, and New Balance, resulted in a sneaker that was as unique as it was comfortable. The design featured a mix of vibrant colors and textures, inspired by the concept of ‘Performance Art’. This release was a standout in 2022, showcasing the artistic side of sneaker culture and the potential of footwear as a medium for self-expression.

5. Off White x Air Force 1 Low ‘Brooklyn’

The Off White x Air Force 1 Low ‘Brooklyn’ was a sneaker that captured the essence of street style. Thisrelease was part of Virgil Abloh’s ‘The Ten’ collection, a series of collaborations between Off White and Nike. The ‘Brooklyn’ colorway featured a clean, white design with signature Off White branding, creating a look that was both sleek and edgy. This sneaker was a favorite among those who appreciate understated elegance and the unique design language of Off White.

4. Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low ‘Reverse Mocha’

The Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low ‘Reverse Mocha’ was a sneaker that blended classic design with a modern twist. This collaboration was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Air Jordan brand and the creative vision of Travis Scott. The sneaker featured a reversed Swoosh, a design element that has become synonymous with Travis Scott’s collaborations with Nike. The ‘Reverse Mocha’ colorway was a nod to the rapper’s Texas roots, adding a personal touch to the design.

3. A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 4

The A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 4 was a celebration of collaboration at its finest. This sneaker was the result of a partnership between A Ma Maniere, an Atlanta-based boutique, and the iconic Air Jordan brand. The design was inspired by the concept of ‘family’, with subtle details that reflected this theme. The sneaker featured a luxurious mix of materials, including quilted satin and tumbled leather, creating a look that was both elegant and sporty.

2. Air Jordan 1 ‘Lost and Found’

The Air Jordan 1 ‘Lost and Found’ was a sneaker that truly embodied the spirit of discovery. This release was a treasure trove of design elements, with a unique colorway and an intriguing backstory. The sneaker was inspired by a pair of original Air Jordan 1s that were discovered in an abandoned storage unit, hence the name ‘Lost and Found’. This release was a testament to the enduring legacy of the Air Jordan brand and the timeless appeal of its designs.

1. Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Low

Finally, at the top of our list, the Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Low takes the crown. This collaboration was a game-changer, blending luxury and sportswear in a way that had everyone talking. If you’re a fan of high-end fashion and classic sneaker design, this was the pair to covet in 2022. The design featured Louis Vuitton’s iconic monogram on Nike’s timeless Air Force 1 silhouette, creating a sneaker that was as much a fashion statement as it was a piece of footwear.