When Raf Simons' reimagined adidas Ozweego first made its bold entrance onto the footwear stage back in 2013, even the most open-minded of sneakerheads were puzzled. As if straight from outer space, the shoe was a left turn on the casual footwear landscape of that time.
Since then, a flagship sneaker has become the must-have item for luxury houses and designers. Names like Balenciaga and Alexander McQueen were quick to act on the demand while other names took longer. But, eight years on, you'd now be hard pushed to find a name in luxury that doesn't have sneakers in its top-10 bestsellers list.
Having a wide range to choose from is usually a great thing, but with luxury sneakers at every twist and turn of the fashion world's new trajectory, it can all get a bit much. That's why Highsnobiety market editors were set the task of rounding up the only luxury sneakers that you need to know about in one convenient place — here.
Scroll on for our full selection of the ultimate luxury sneakers.
Palm Angels University Sneakers
University Sneakers
Palm Angels
Palm Angels' latest sneaker creation is another retro strike for the brand. Maintaining its typical varsity style, the shoe is covered in a neutral-tone suede material throughout and has the brand's logo at the back for a luxe feel.
Lanvin Curb Sneakers
Curb Sneakers
Lanvin
The comeback of the chunky ‘00s skater sneaker is real. The Lanvin Curb Sneakers pull elements of the bold silhouette and combine it with the house's luxury codes for an elevated touch.
Axel Arigato Marathon R-Trail 50/50 Sneaker
Marathon R-Trail 50/50 Sneaker
Axel Arigato
If you can’t decide between colorways, Axel Arigato eases your decision with this two-in-one Marathon sneaker.
Maison Margiela Replica Sneakers
Replica Sneakers
Maison Margiela
In a world where sneaker designs seem to be getting crazier, here comes a classic. The Replica Sneaker epitomizes simple luxury at its best, thanks to its refined silhouette and minimal detailing. Opt for this light blue shade to switch up your white luxury sneaker rotation.
Rick Owens Low-Top Sneakers
Low-Top Sneakers
Rick Owens
Inspired by the Converse Chuck Taylor, Rick Owens brings its own luxurious version of the fan-favorite shoe. It features a thicker rubber sole unit, a long heel tab, and a “Stop Your Death” phrase to embody the brand's dark aesthetic.
Kiko Kostadinov Tonkin Sneakers
Tonkin Sneakers
Kiko Kostadinov
Kiko Kostadinov's luxurious utilitarian aesthetic extends to its shoe game, too. This black sneaker features a chunky rubber sole, black lining details throughout, and navy inner padding for minimal contrast.
Gucci Screener Monogrammed Sneakers
Screener Monogrammed Sneakers
Gucci
There’s nothing that screams luxury louder than a pair of Gucci Monogrammed sneakers. The pair has a worn-in look to it and adds the house’s signature red and green stripes to make them even more flex-worthy.
Balenciaga Runner Sneakers
Runner Sneakers
Balenciaga
Balenciaga infuses its disruptive style into ‘90s-style sneakers by adding a ripped collar, cut panels, and a worn-in effect throughout.
COMME des GARÇONS Terminator High Top Sneakers
Terminator High Top Sneakers
COMME des GARÇONS
While CDG usually goes for all-black or all-white for its sneaker creations, this pair leans toward a retro varsity style.
Y-3 Kaiwa sneakers
Kaiwa sneakers
Y-3
For its Kaiwa Sneakers, Yohji Yamamoto goes for a futuristic vibe. The sneaker encapsulates a bolder personality thanks to its exaggerated long tongue, inflated details throughout, and chunky heel tab.
Marni Floral-print Trainers
Floral-print Trainers
Marni
Marni and Carhartt are making sure that slip-on trainers aren't forgotten. This pair features a thick rubber sole with Marni’s logo for exclusivity and a floral print canvas upper ideal for spring.
Loewe Flow Runner Sneakers
Flow Runner Sneakers
Loewe
Loewe dials down its bizarre sneaker creations with the Flow Runner Sneaker. The shoe has the classic running sneaker shape but features attractive elements like its mesh paneling, silver logo details, and exaggerated longer rubber sole unit.
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