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, seven 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 stylists were set the task of rounding up the only luxury sneakers that you need to know about in one convenient place — here. Understated options from Fear of God and Maison Martin Margiela oppose loud, intricate styles from Balenciaga and Sunnei to ensure that there's a style for every taste.
Scroll on for our full selection of the ultimate luxury sneakers.
Gucci Screener GG Original Sneakers
Screener GG Original Sneakers
Gucci
There's something extra luxurious about a luxury item that doesn't need to shout about its luxury status. Take these Gucci sneakers for example — the no-frills silhouette is backed by a pre-loved effect to make these the most luxurious beaters in the world.
Maison Margiela Exclusive to Mytheresa Vintage Graffiti Replica Sneakers
Exclusive to Mytheresa Vintage Graffiti Replica Sneakers
Maison Margiela
Free Shipping On Orders Over $500
Free Shipping On Orders Over $500
Making reference to when Martin Margiela first discovered the German Army Trainer in a second-hand shop, passing his discovery around the workshop for all to scribble a message on, this Replica is exclusive to Mytheresa and is sure to earn you sneakerhead rep.
Loewe Ballet Runner Sneakers
Ballet Runner Sneakers
Loewe
Loewe offers a super lightweight footwear option that's perfect for the summer. This runner is inspired by elegant satin ballet pumps and features a minuscule outsole as the foundation to the suede, leather, and nylon upper.
Bottega Veneta Low Top Leather Sneakers
Low Top Leather Sneakers
Bottega Veneta
Free Express Shipping On Orders Over $500
Free Express Shipping On Orders Over $500
We can't say no to the color combination of white and gum. Bottega Veneta shows why you don't really need any other palette for the summer. Preppy and clean, this low-top sneaker is a seasonal smash.
Acne Studios Bolzter Tumbled M Sneakers
Bolzter Tumbled M Sneakers
Acne Studios
Acne Studios' Bolzter Sneaker takes inspiration from technical hiking footwear with a partitioned, wrap-around sole and multiple panels to the upper. A worn-in design adds beaten appeal to this all-white pair.
Off-White™ Low Vulcanized Sneakers
Low Vulcanized Sneakers
Off-White™
Instantly recognizable, this Off-White™ sneaker comes with the diagonal stripe motif emblazoned across the midsole which transforms what would be a minimal style into a certified flex.
FEAR OF GOD 101 Backless Sneakers
101 Backless Sneakers
FEAR OF GOD
Few have perfected L.A. style like Jerry Lorenzo. This pair of backless sneakers makes reference to classic skating styles but makes them even more casual with the possibility of slipping them on. A chunky, one-piece sole unit adds impact to this understated pair.
Balenciaga Track.2 Sneakers
Track.2 Sneakers
Balenciaga
Of all the luxury houses, Balenciaga has always felt like one of the most comfortable with the sneaker trend. A line of coveted designs traces back several years and the Track.2 style is still flying the flag.
Sunnei Color Block Suede Lace-Up Sneakers
Color Block Suede Lace-Up Sneakers
Sunnei
Free Express Shipping On Orders Over $500
Free Express Shipping On Orders Over $500
Sunnei is a label rooted in having fun. From the Milan retail space to the design that come out of it, this brand knows how to enjoy itself. These suede sneakers exemplify Sunnei's willingness to go the extra mile when it comes to creativity and especially color.
Miharayasuhiro Original Sole Overdyed Lowcut Sneakers
Original Sole Overdyed Lowcut Sneakers
Miharayasuhiro
Free Express Shipping On Orders Over $500
Free Express Shipping On Orders Over $500
Just when you thought you'd seen every variation of this classic silhouette, Miharayasuhiro reups the style with a DIY-style sole unit that we can't take our eyes off.
Bally Kuba Sneakers
Exhibiting the extremely high level of quality we've come to expect from one of the world's first luxury houses, Bally's Kuba sneaker features a full-grain leather upper that contrasts with a sports-inspired sole unit.
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