2021 has been an unforgettable year for sneaker enthusiasts. With brands like Nike, New Balance, and Adidas dropping incredible releases, it's no wonder sneakerheads have been buzzing all year long. From iconic reissues to innovative designs, this year has been packed with must-have sneakers that have left a lasting impression.
Collaborations have been a major highlight of 2021. These partnerships not only showcase thoughtful design but also come with compelling stories. According to Peter Verry, senior news and features editor at FN, collaborations like Joe Freshgoods, A Ma Maniére, and many others have set the blueprint for future collaborations.
As the year comes to a close, it's time to spotlight the best sneakers of 2021. Here are 20 standout sneakers that have made a mark in the sneaker world:
Social Status x Nike Dunk "Free Lunch"
Social Status x Nike Dunk
One of the standout collaborations of 2021 is the Social Status x Nike Dunk "Free Lunch" pack. Designed by Social Status founder James Whitner, these Dunks aim to raise awareness about a government assistance program that provides underprivileged children with free lunch. With "Strawberry Milk" and "Chocolate Milk" colorways, these Dunks not only look great but also make a meaningful statement.
Salehe Bembury x New Balance 2002R "Water Be the Guide"
Salehe Bembury x New Balance 2002R
Salehe Bembury, the sneaker community's newfound deity, collaborated with New Balance to release the 2002R "Water Be the Guide." This sneaker captivated the world with its vibrant colors, exaggerated materials, and eye-catching branding. Bembury's collaboration with New Balance showcases his unique design perspective and pushes the boundaries of sneaker design.
Air Jordan 11 "Cool Grey"
Air Jordan 11
The highly anticipated reissue of the Air Jordan 11 "Cool Grey" was one of the highlights of 2021. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the colorway, this sneaker features subtle tweaks like an icy blue sole and a larger patent leather mudguard. With its timeless design and iconic silhouette, the Air Jordan 11 continues to be a favorite among sneakerheads.
A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 1 "Airness"
A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 1
The Air Jordan 1 remains a ubiquitous sneaker silhouette, and the A Ma Maniére collaboration celebrates the black roots of the Jordan Brand. Designed in collaboration with James Whitner's brand, A Ma Maniére, this luxurious Air Jordan 1 features aged-effect suede and leather, burgundy accents, and a quilted sockliner. It is a true testament to the power of the Black community and Michael Jordan's legacy.
Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 550 "White/Navy/Red" and "Natural Green"
Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 550
The Aimé Leon Dore collaboration with New Balance continued to impress in 2021. The vintage-inspired New Balance 550 received two new colorways from Leon Dore: a youthful navy and red iteration and a timeless and versatile natural green option. These sneakers showcase the perfect blend of retro aesthetics and contemporary style.
Kith for Nike Air Force 1 "Hawaii" and "Paris"
Kith for Nike Air Force 1
Ronnie Fieg, the "king of collaborations," reclaimed his title with the Kith for Nike Air Force 1 "Hawaii" and "Paris" releases. These predominantly white Air Force 1s celebrate the launch of the Kith Hawaii and Paris stores. With embossed leather Kith patterns, velour sock lining, special addition tongue tabs, and colored accents, these sneakers transport sneakerheads to the respective locations.
Billie Eilish x Air Jordan 1 KO and Air Jordan 15
Billie Eilish x Air Jordan 1 KO
Billie Eilish, the internationally renowned singer, made her mark in the sneaker world with her collaboration with Air Jordan. The Billie Eilish x Air Jordan collection features two sneakers: a neon green Jordan 1 Retro AJKO and a beige Jordan 15 Retro. These sneakers are not only stylish but also designed with sustainable materials, showcasing different facets of Billie Eilish's creativity.
Aleali May x Air Jordan 1 Zoom Comfort and Air Jordan 14
Aleali May x Air Jordan 1 Zoom Comfort
Aleali May, the second woman to collaborate with Jordan Brand, continued to make an impact in 2021. Her collaboration with Air Jordan resulted in the Air Jordan 1 Zoom Comfort, inspired by her high school drill team, and a jade-colored Air Jordan 14 that pays homage to her Filipino heritage. These sneakers showcase May's unique take on popular models and continue to captivate sneaker collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
Bad Bunny x Adidas Forum Low
Bad Bunny x Adidas Forum Low
Puerto Rico sensation Bad Bunny collaborated with Adidas to create the Bad Bunny x Adidas Forum Low. This sneaker takes the classic Adidas Forum Low silhouette and updates it with unique utilitarian details like a buckle fastening, toggle tab, double tongue, and Bad Bunny iconography. With its distinct design and Bad Bunny's influence, this sneaker is sure to remain highly coveted for years to come.
New Balance x Bricks & Wood 57/40
New Balance x Bricks & Wood 57/40
New Balance has always been known for providing a platform for undiscovered talent, especially from minority groups. In 2021, New Balance collaborated with Kacey Lynch, founder and designer of LA-based brand Bricks & Wood, to create a fresh take on the New Balance 57/40 silhouette. Inspired by Lynch's home city of South Central Los Angeles, these sneakers feature rich green suede, a yellowed midsole, dark pink outsole, metallic silver details, and a tag that reads, "From South Central with Love."
Bodega x New Balance 990v3 "Anniversary"
Bodega x New Balance 990v3
To celebrate its 15th anniversary, Boston-based boutique Bodega collaborated with New Balance on the Bodega x New Balance 990v3 "Anniversary" release. These sneakers feature an earthy palette with unexpected hits of color and understated details. The combination of unique design elements and premium craftsmanship makes this collaboration a standout in the sneaker world.
A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 3 "Raised by Women"
A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 3 "Raised by Women"
Atlanta-based boutique A Ma Maniére collaborated with Jordan Brand to create a premium Air Jordan 3 that honors Black women. This unique collaboration features special quotes from James Whitner's mother located behind the heel tab of each shoe. With its meaningful design details and luxurious craftsmanship, the A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 3 "Raised by Women" is a true standout.
Travis Scott x Fragment x Air Jordan 1 High and Low "White/Black/Royal Sail"
Travis Scott x Fragment x Air Jordan 1 High "White/Black/Royal Sail"
Travis Scott, Fragment, and Jordan Brand joined forces for a three-way collaboration on the Air Jordan 1 High and Low. This collaboration combines Travis Scott's signature reverse Swoosh with Fragment's iconic color palette, resulting in a truly unique sneaker. With its innovative design and attention to detail, this collaboration is a must-have for any sneakerhead.
Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v3 "Outside Clothes"
Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v3 "Outside Clothes"
Chicago native Joe Freshgoods is known for his unique and nostalgic designs. The Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v3 "Outside Clothes" sneakers, released in the summer of 2021, capture the essence of a childhood spent in the great outdoors. With playful colors and an ice cream cone-inspired waffle-pattern tongue, these sneakers evoke happy memories and showcase Freshgoods' unwavering vision.
Air Jordan 4 Retro "White Oreo"
Air Jordan 4 Retro "White Oreo"
The Air Jordan 4 made a comeback in 2021, and one of the best colorways was the "White Oreo" edition. Inspired by the original "Oreo" Air Jordan 4 from 1999, this sneaker features a speckled patterned midsole and lace cages that give it a cookies and cream look. With its timeless appeal and unique design elements, this sneaker continues to be in high demand.
Patta x Nike Air Max 1 Waves "Monarch"
Patta x Nike Air Max 1 Waves "Monarch"
Amsterdam-based boutique Patta breathed new life into the original Air Max silhouette with the Nike Air Max 1 x Patta Waves. This collaboration adds a wave-like pattern to the shoe's quintessential mudguard, giving it a fresh and unique look. Released in the "Monarch" colorway, this sneaker has sparked a re-emergence of the Air Max 1 in the sneaker community.
Supreme x Nike Dunk Low Stars "Mean Green"
Supreme x Nike Dunk Low Stars "Mean Green"
Every Supreme sneaker drop is highly anticipated, and the Supreme x Nike Dunk Low Stars "Mean Green" was no exception. This collaboration, featuring a faux croc leather upper, pays homage to the iconic Supreme x Nike Dunk High release from 2003. With its eye-catching design and Supreme's signature touch, this Dunk is a standout in the sneaker world.
Off-White x Air Jordan 2 Low "White/Red" and "Black/Blue"
Off-White x Air Jordan 2 Low
The late Virgil Abloh's Off-White collaboration with Air Jordan brought us the innovative Off-White x Air Jordan 2 Low. Abloh took the classic basketball silhouette and added unique details like an aged-looking outsole and Michael Jordan's signature. Released in two colorways, "White/Red" and "Black/Blue," these sneakers showcase Abloh's innovative design approach and continue to be highly sought after.
New Balance 200R Protection Pack "Sea Salt," "Phantom," and "Rain Cloud"
New Balance 200R Protection Pack
Outside of collaborations, the New Balance 200R Protection Pack, also known as the "Refine Future" release, was a standout in 2021. This pack features three colorways, "Sea Salt," "Phantom," and "Rain Cloud," that showcase the sneaker's jagged hairy suede layers. With its deconstructed look and primal aesthetics, this release pushed the boundaries of New Balance design.
Air Jordan 1 Retro High 85 "Neutral Grey"
Air Jordan 1 Retro High 85 "Neutral Grey"
The most anticipated Air Jordan 1 of 2021 was undoubtedly the Air Jordan 1 Retro High 85 "Neutral Grey." This release marked the first time the original colorway was reissued since its debut in 1985. The Air Jordan Retro High 85 faithfully replicates the shoe from 35 years ago, with improved materials and a sleeker design. This sneaker combines nostalgia with superior craftsmanship.
2021 has undeniably been a remarkable year for sneaker enthusiasts. From meaningful collaborations to iconic reissues, these sneakers have left an indelible mark on the sneaker world. As we bid farewell to 2021, let's celebrate these exceptional releases and eagerly await what 2022 has in store for us.
