Sneaker obsession: What’s hot in 2026
Sneakers in 2026 are either having an identity crisis or an awakening, depending on who you ask. After years of extremes—from hyper-chunky soles to barely-there minimalism—designers are now merging categories, softening silhouettes, and rethinking what an everyday sneaker can look like.
That said, for your New Year’s resolution, don’t just aim for 10,000 steps—hit them in a pair that keeps pace and stays in style.
Here’s the unfiltered rundown of what’s dominating the sneaker landscape of 2026, along with the pairs that actually deserve your money.
1. Animal print sneakers
Leopard, zebra, snakeskin. The prints are back, bold and unapologetic. Luxury houses have adopted high-drama patterns, and sneakers are one of the easiest ways to dip into the trend. For playful yet wearable options, Adidas Taekwondo Mei and Vince Oasis sneakers bring just the right amount of pattern—neither too busy nor too timid.
2. Convertible loafers sneakers
These hybrid shoes combine the sleek look of a classic loafer with the comfort and flexibility of a sneaker. Made from soft leather or high-quality synthetics with cushioned soles, they move with you while maintaining a polished, stylish edge.
This year’s frontrunners include Vivaia Ivana hybrid loafers, Alohas Tb.60 sneakers, Miu Miu convertible penny loafers in Nero, Gucci loafer with horsebit, and the Prada Shuffle antiqued leather loafer.
3. Slipper sneakers
Sneakers are getting softer—literally. Satin and nylon are the materials of the moment, giving shoes a comfortable, slipper-like sheen that instantly elevates casual outfits. Prada and Dries Van Noten have embraced the glossy finish, while Onitsuka Tiger pushes ultra-light constructions.
We can say that these sneakers also cater to celebrities and fashion insiders, as we often spot them wearing their sneakers with the heel folded.
4. Almost-sneakers
Those half–Mary Jane, half–running shoe hybrids might be the most polarizing style of the year, and expect them to dominate even more in 2026. Delicate, airy, and borderline eccentric, they somehow manage to flatter almost everyone.
Zara’s split-leather ballet flats, Tory Burch ballet sneakers, Vans 93 Mary Jane sneakers, and Marni leather Mary Jane sneakers show how wide this category has become. This trend is perfect for anyone who wants something feminine without committing to a full ballet flat.
5. Flat-sole sneakers
The swollen, cloud-like soles of the early ’20s are officially out. In their place? Razor-thin silhouettes that skim the ground like a whisper. Think Adidas Tokyo or Toteme leather-trimmed sneakers—shoes that move with you rather than weigh you down.
They strike the perfect balance between low-profile and versatile, making them easy to wear for both men and women. And yes, these kicks prove that sometimes less really is more.
6. Sculptural sneakers
Sneakers are bending, twisting, and hollowing out in every direction imaginable. Striking cutouts reveal flashes of socks or skin, inspired by the ergonomic shapes pioneered by Issey Miyake. Aldo Aethera sneakers also bring warped soles to the mass market as easy slip-ons, while Puma Mostro Metal sneakers in silver and black add a bold, futuristic edge.
These pairs prove you don’t need maximalism elsewhere—the shoes do all the talking.
7. Sneakerinas
With balletcore still going strong into 2026, sneakerinas are here to stay. Their slim silhouettes and feminine details—like satin bow accents and mesh panels—add a graceful twist to everyday footwear.
From Adidas Taekwondo Mei ballet trainers to Vivaia square toe sneakerinas, Puma Speedcat ballet flats, and even Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Dainty Ballerina Canvas, these shoes prove that comfort doesn’t have to come at the expense of sophistication. They’ve also become favorites of singers and models alike, including Charli XCX and Bella Hadid.
8. Trail sneakers
The outdoorsy silhouette once associated with dads and weekend warriors is now the “it” shoe of the moment. Scandinavian minimalists and gorpcore lovers have turned trail runners into everyday statement pieces. From the coveted Salomon XT-6 to the ultra-breathable Hoka Anacapa Breeze Low Commuter Shoe, these kicks effortlessly blend performance with panache.
Whether paired with crisp denim or an oversized cardigan-and-skirt combo, these shoes guarantee mileage—in both style and steps.
Two steps ahead
If 2026 proves anything, it’s that sneakers can do more than get you from point A to point B—they can define your entire outfit. Still, the right pair should make every step feel easier, and every look feel more “you.”
With so many ways to strike that balance this year, all that’s left is choosing the sneakers that truly embody the saying, “Good shoes will take you to good places.”
