The Best New Sneaker Designs of 2021 (So Far)

From additions to the Yeezy line with the 450, to Zion Williamson and Kevin Durant signatures, these are the best new sneaker designs of the year, so far.

Best New Sneaker Designs So Far
Image via Complex Original
Best New Sneaker Designs So Far

Stop right there. Hold your complaints, please. Before you become incensed at this list, at least take a moment to understand what it is. You made it past the headline—great job. Now listen for just a second. This is not a list breaking down the best sneakers of the year so far—that’s coming soon. This is a more exclusive list focusing strictly on the best new sneaker designs of 2021 so far, the silhouettes and models that released for the first time this year.

No, your favorite Jordan collaboration isn’t on here—that’s because it’s based on a model from 1988. No, that Nike SB Dunk you really liked is not on here—that’s because Nike SB Dunks have been out for almost 20 years.

As sneaker hobbyists, we are so often focused on the old rather than the new. Rarely do genuinely new models pierce the din of retro hype in an interesting way that creates sustained conversation. And so, the ones that do should be celebrated. Thank you for reading. These are the best new sneaker designs of 2021 so far.

10. Reebok Zig 3D Storm Hydro

Reebok Zig 3D Storm Hydro

9. Nike Waffle One

Nike Waffle One

8. New Balance 57/40

New Balance 57/40

7. Nike KD 14

Nike KD 14

6. Nike ACG Mountain Fly Low

Nike ACG Mountain Fly Low

5. Jordan Zion 1

Jordan Zion 1

4. Nike ZoomX VaporFly Next% 2

Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next Percent 2

3. Nike Cosmic Unity

Nike Cosmic Unity

2. Nike Go FlyEase

Nike Go FlyEase

1. Adidas Yeezy 450

Adidas Yeezy 450