A Definitive Guide to the Best Raf Simons Sneakers Ever Released
Since his 1995 debut, Raf Simons has become a household name in fashion. From decorating Walter Van Beirendonck showrooms and collections to designing menswear outfits for Ruffo Research, the Belgian designer is among the most respected of his generation in both women's and men’s fashion. To this day Simons continues to push boundaries and set the bar high, be it in footwear or apparel.
His 20+ years in the industry have not hindered his designs from resonating with younger generations, which speaks to how pivotal he has been in depicting youth culture over the years. With two consecutive awards for womenswear design at Calvin Klein and a spot on the TIME Most Influential People list, it's fair to call Simons a pioneer.
Beginning his career in furniture design, Simons moved to fashion in the mid-90s. Since then, his career portfolio has grown, working with Calvin Klein, Dior, and Jil Sander, in addition to running his own label. Simons' relationship with adidas, which began in 2013, not only broke ground, but also resulted in some of sneakerheads' favorite releases over the years, including the Stan Smith strap up, RS Replicant Ozweego, and RS Detroit Runner. As one of adidas’ most successful collaborators, Simons has managed to revamp classics while catering to both garishness and minimalism.
As chief creative officer for Calvin Klein, the world further witnessed his creative nature. A few favorites from this former partnership include the Calvin Klein 205W39NYC Cander 7 and Calvin Klein 205W39NYC Strike 205. Continually reframing the relationship between fashion and pop culture, Simons famously featured the Kardashian-Jenner family as the faces of Calvin Klein Underwear and Calvin Klein Jeans (in 2015, Kanye West cited the designer as inspiration for his first YEEZY Season 1 runway collection).
Here we've compiled our favorite sneakers designed by Raf Simons, be it with adidas or while at the helm of Calvin Klein.
adidas by Raf Simons RS Replicant Ozweego
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: RS Replicant Ozweego
Key Features: The Replicant Ozweego comes in three distinct acidic colorways that feature gradient tones from toe to heel. It also features a newdeconstructed upper, which sees its gel bubbles replaced with cut-out holes.
Release Date: March 2018
Resale Price: $197 to $208
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: Belgian designer Raf Simons showcases the Replicant Ozweego in three gradient-style colorways.
adidas by Raf Simons RS Detroit Runner
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: RS Detroit Runner
Key Features: The Detroit Runner pairs an exaggerated, hiking-inspired sole with a muted canvas upper.
Release Date: March 2018
Resale Price: $212 to $230
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: The sneaker is highlighted by its futuristic sole design, then welcoming classic canvas construction on the upper. Optioned in muted tones of red, grey, blue, olive, white, and black, the Detroit Runner features minimal RS branding at the heel, and comes equipped with tonal laces. As with most Raf Simons’ offerings, these sneakers come with a price tag to match their quality.
adidas by Raf Simons RS Ozweego
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: RS Ozweego
Key Features: The sneaker features a bulky upper with a mesh base and leather overlays rendered in six different colorways. The lower part of the upper and the whole midsole are coated with a reflective TPU film for a mirrored, metallic effect that recalls '70s glam rock platform boots.
Release Date: May 2019
Resale Price: $446
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: Raf Simons and adidas’ longstanding partnership continued into Spring/Summer 2019 with a newer range of glammed-up colorways of the designer’s iconic RS Ozweego. The style was unveiled at Simons’ show in June 2018, where the designer sent models down the runway in ’70s-inspired platform leather boots.
adidas by Raf Simons RS Stan Smith "Micropacer"
Brand: adidas Originals by Raf Simons
Model: RS Stan Smith Micropacer
Key Features: The RS Stan Smith Micropacer features a trompe l’oeil print that reimagines the RS Stan Smith as one of three adidas archive models. Trompe l’oeil gives a 3D realism to 2D surfaces through the use of perspective, resulting in an optical illusion.
Release Date: April 2019
Resale Price: $148 - $300
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: Debuted at Paris Fashion Week Men’s FW19, Raf Simons unveiled the latest chapter in his long-time partnership with adidas. Using a trompe l’oeil print, the designer reimagined the iconic Stan Smith.
adidas by Raf Simons RS Detroit High
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: RS Detroit High
Key Features: A rubberized plastic upper sits atop a thick-tread outsole and curvilinear midsole. For a finishing touch, a black and white photograph of Jane Doe is placed on the outer shaft of the boot’s ankle.
Release Date: January 2019
Resale Price: $400
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: This is one of Raf Simons’ low-top adidas silhouettes, the RS Detroit Runner, reimagined in a high-top format. Instead of a canvas upper, the shoe was given a rubberized plastic makeover, while the tooling remained the same. The rubberized plastic is a nod to the fetish elements of glam rock. The black and white photograph above the ankle lends the boot a punk rock vibe.
Calvin Klein 205W39NYC Cander 7
Brand: Calvin Klein 205W39NYC
Model: Cander 7
Key Features: The standout feature of Simons' Cander 7 is the striking orange hue in which the sneaker is rendered. The vibrant single tone encompasses the entirety of the design, including its nappa leather upper and thick rubber tooling system.
Release Date: January 2019
Price: $595
Buy: Resell sites like eBay, Grailed, GOAT and StockX
Editor’s Notes: Just two years after being appointed Calvin Klein’s chief creative officer, Raf Simons departed Calvin Klein. One of his final creations for the brand was this tonal take on the Cander 7, which side-steps his love for extensive color palettes and refines the selection to a single, striking orange.
The sporty sneaker retains the Cander 7’s signature slingback rubber cap and leather sheath, both rendered in orange. However, there is one detail that eschews the orange brush; a black and silver, carbon fiber-esque pattern section inserted into the heel.
adidas by Raf Simons RS Replicant Ozweego — U.S.A. Colors Edition
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: RS Replicant Ozweego — U.S.A. Colors Edition
Key Features: The sneakers feature a white mesh and synthetic upper, blue EVA heel cap, and red rubber outsole. As with the first Replicant Ozweego, the sneakers feature cut-out panels, instead of the transparent silicone windows seen in the original RS Ozweego.
Release Date: June 2018
Price: $175 - $435
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: The deconstructed RS Replicant Ozweego got a new spin, celebrating Independence Day. Released in a limited-edition red, white and blue colorway, the Ozweego silhouette paied homage to the American flag.
The sneakers also came in an exclusive box that included three pairs of geometric-printed socks to go with the release. The new colorway was originally stocked in just 50 selected retailers worldwide.
adidas by Raf Simons RS Replicant Ozweego “Belgian National Day”
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: RS Replicant Ozweego “Belgian National Day”
Key Features: The sneakers showcase a black mesh and synthetic upper, yellow EVA heel cap, and cardinal red rubber outsole. As with the first Replicant Ozweego, the sneakers feature cut-out panels, instead of the transparent silicone windows seen in the original RS Ozweego.
Release Date: July 2018
Resale Price: $187
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: Following the USA-themed Replicant Ozweego drop, adidas and Raf Simons teamed up on a patriotic Belgian iteration to celebrate the country’s National Day, held on July 21. As with the USA Replicant Ozweego, this version paid its respects to another place the designer feels connected to — his home country of Belgium.
The sneakers were released alongside an exclusive box, which included three pairs of geometric-printed socks that went with the release. These Belgian National Day limited edition sneakers only hit the shelves of 50 selective retail stores worldwide.
Calvin Klein 205W39NYC Strike 205
Brand: Calvin Klein 205W39NYC
Model: Strike 205
Key Features: The sneaker’s upper is constructed using a mix of calf leather, suede, and mesh, and features a complicated lace-up closure with metal rivets. A treaded sole and heel tab round off the look.
Release Date: November 2018
Price: Varies
Buy: Resell sites like eBay, Grailed, GOAT and StockX
Editor’s Notes: Calvin Klein 205W39NYC made its eye-catching Strike 205 sneaker available for purchase in three colorways. The striking design featured a mixture of suede, leather, and mesh panels on the upper to create a busy but on-trend silhouette.
Along with its treaded sole, a not-so-subtle nod to the hiking and trail-running sneaker trend, the sneaker features a gel bubble that reminds one strongly of the adidas Ozweego Bunny — another Raf Simons design.
adidas by Raf Simons Ozweego 3
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Ozweego 3
Key Features: A leather upper, black rubber outsole, and a final touch of minimal branding.
Release Date: January 2019
Price: $400
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: adidas and Raf Simons dropped off two colorways of the Ozweego 3 just in time for Valentine’s Day 2019. Done up in leather, we found the popular design optioned in burgundy/maroon/scarlet and cream white/mist stone/black.
adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith Strap Up
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Stan Smith Strap Up
Key Features: The kicks were finished up with premium black leather as well as a tonal rubber sole underneath. Matching laces accompany, while the three straps account for contrast accordingly.
Release Date: September 2016
Price: $200
Buy: StockX
Editor’s Notes: The Belgian designer released this variation of the Stan Smith model in 2016. Here we see the sneaker strapped up, featuring a trio of buckle straps at the forefoot.
adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith “Metallic Silver”
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Stan Smith "Metallic Silver"
Key Features: After getting strapped-up in early 2016, Raf Simons opted for drenching the iconic shoe’s premium leather upper in metallic silver. Maintaining the typical Raf Simons x adidas branding throughout, this release also boasts a tonal midsole.
Release Date: April 2016
Price: Varies
Buy: Resell sites like eBay, GOAT, Grailed and StockX
Editors Notes: If you’re looking for some more metallic footwear, make sure you check out this Ultra Boost from 2016 that features metallic detailing. In terms of apparel, F.C.Real Bristol’s range from the same year is also chock-full of metallic goods.
adidas by Raf Simons Response Trail Robot “Silver”
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Key Features: This 2015 model comes in a silver colorway, whereby the upper is enhanced with large colorful holes that are carefully incorporated into the sneaker's lacing.
Release Date: 2015
Price: $150
Buy: eBay
Editor's Notes: The adidas Response Trail Robot is one of the sneakers from the collection that stays very true to the signature design of the Belgian designer who started collaborating with adidas as early as 2013.
adidas by Raf Simons Ozweego II "Rich Red"
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Ozweego 2 "Rich Red"
Key Features: The footwear features construction from mesh and synthetic materials, boasting a rich red upper. An Adiprene midsole and Adiwear outsole ensure you remain comfortable with each stride. Three Stripes branding tags the pair on the heel, while Raf Simons’ handiwork is noted on the tongue.
Release Date: 2015
Price: Varies
Buy: Resell sites like eBay, Grailed, StockX and GOAT
Editor's Notes: For this collaboration, adidas and Raf Simons released a predominantly red colorway of the ever-popular Ozweego 2. A more detailed look into the Raf Simons’ Spring/Summer 2016 collection with adidas can be found here.
adidas by Raf Simons Response Trail II
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Response Trail II
Key Features: The Response Trail II is optioned in black and white with interchangeable spoilers in contrasting colors.
Release Date: 2015
Price: Varies
Buy: GOAT
Editor's Notes: Raf Simons's makeover of the archetypal adidas Response Trail is nothing short of inventive.
adidas by Raf Simons Bounce “Black Floral”
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Bounce "Black Floral"
Key Features: Continuing the line’s so-ugly-they’re-beautiful theme, the Bounce sneakers sport a textile and synthetic upper with awkwardly clashing floral patterns, riding atop a Springblade-esque plastic sole unit.
Release Date: 2015
Price: Varies
Buy: Resell sites like Grailed, eBay, GOAT and StockX
Editor's Notes: Another set of beautiful monstrosities from adidas' ongoing collaboration with Belgian design mastermind Raf Simons.
adidas by Raf Simons “Rising Star 1”
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Rising Star 1
Key Features: This laceless model keeps it simple with a zipper on each side and features a relatively low heel drop.
Release Date: 2014
Price: Varies
Buy: Resell sites like GOAT, StockX, eBay and Grailed
Editor's Notes: Athletic giant adidas continued to push the boundaries of designer collaborations with the Rising Star 1, quickly becoming a major contender in the fashion-meets-streetwear sneaker game.
Raf Simons High-Top Sneaker
Brand: Raf Simons
Model: High-Top Sneaker
Key Features: Raf Simons' High-Top Sneaker is comprised of patent and etched snakeskin leathers in a color-blocked dark purple, neon green and black design.
Release Date: 2012
Price: Varies
Buy: Resell sites like eBay, GOAT, StockX and Grailed
Editor's Notes: Details include velcro fold-over straps, black textile trim and contrast black stitching.
adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith “Stripes & Straps”
Brand: adidas by Raf Simons
Model: Stan Smith "Stripes and Straps"
Key Features: Exotic leathers, strong stripe detailing and two straps with button closures.
Release Date: 2014
Price: Varies
Buy: Resell sites like StockX, Grailed, GOAT and eBay
Editor's Notes: As part of their 2014 collaboration, the Belgian fashion designer worked on the iconic Stan Smith with a duo Velcro strap substitution in place of laces.
Best Raf Simons sneakers ranked
adidas by Raf Simons RS Replicant Ozweego
adidas by Raf Simons RS Detroit Runner
adidas by Raf Simons RS Ozweego
adidas by Raf Simons RS Stan Smith "Micropacer"
adidas by Raf Simons RS Detroit High
Calvin Klein 205W39NYC Cander 7
adidas by Raf Simons RS Replicant Ozweego — U.S.A. Colors Edition
adidas by Raf Simons RS Replicant Ozweego “Belgian National Day”
Calvin Klein 205W39NYC Strike 205
adidas by Raf Simons Ozweego 3
adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith Strap Up
adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith "Metallic Silver"
adidas by Raf Simons Response Trail Robot "Silver"
adidas by Raf Simons Ozweego 2 "Rich Red"
adidas by Raf Simons Response Trail II
adidas by Raf Simons Bounce Back "Floral"
adidas by Raf Simons Rising Star "1"
adidas by Raf Simons High-Top Sneaker
adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith "Stripes and Straps"
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Raf Simons sneakers?
Raf Simons-designed sneakers can be purchased online and in physical stores, including Calvin Klein and adidas. As for models that have already sold out, make sure to head to resale websites such as eBay, StockX, GOAT and Grailed.
Who is Raf Simons?
Born in 1968, Raf Simons is a self-taught Belgian menswear designer who has been pivotal in the fashion industry since his initial 1995 Raf Simons label launch. Simons' success is evident in the portfolio of collaborations he has stacked up over the years, including the likes of Jil Sander, Christian Dior, and Calvin Klein. His legacy was cemented in 2017 when TIME declared Simons one of the most influential people in the world in their "icons" category.
Despite often being branded as minimalistic, his signature style remains true to modern, innovative fabrics and textures, highlighting the psyche of the modern-day man. A longtime admirer of Stan Smith sneakers, Simons maintains a strong partnership with adidas.
