Your Guide to the Ultimate Sneakerhead Collection: 10 Sneakers That Are Must-Haves
Projections show that the global sneaker market will reach a value of $79 billion by 2026.
If you have an interest in sneakers, there are several pairs that you’ll want to add to your sneakerhead collection. Whether your looking for style, rarity, or just have a specific taste, there are always more sneakers out there for you.
For a rundown of 10 pairs that are essential for any sneaker collector, keep reading.
1. New Balance 550
The New Balance 550 centers around style and function. It has an old-school appearance, but modern technology makes it both lightweight and comfortable. The high-grade leather gives a luxurious feel, and they work well whether you’re just out for a walk, or for playing sports.
It consists of high-quality materials and is available in a variety of colors, making it ideal for any taste. Kicks Crew has the New Balance 550 in different colors and styles in both men’s, and unisex.
2. Nike Air Force 1
For years Nike has been the biggest company in the Sneaker game. As such, they have released many pairs of sneakers over the years that collectors have had an interest in.
One of Nike’s most iconic sneakers is the Air Force 1. First released in 1982, these have had countless different style designs over the years. Today it’s more of a lifestyle shoe, but was originally designed for basketball, and many famous players have worn them over the years.
3. Adidas Superstar
A classic sneaker, this low-top basketball shoe has an iconic look that any sneakerhead will recognize. Kareem Abdul Jabbar is noted to have worn this shoe on the court, lending to its fame.
Beyond basketball, the Superstar has been very popular in the world of hip-hop and amongst b-boys. It has a simple design and isn’t too expensive, making it suitable for almost anyone.
4. Air Jordan 1
The Air Jordan 1 made its way into the world in 1985 and quickly became one of the most iconic sneakers in the world. Jordan initially wore the iconic red/black/white colorway, with one of his pairs selling recently for $650,000.
Air Jordan 1s are among the most popular collectible sneakers in the world and have led to the development of many other Air Jordan sneakers. Originally designed with basketball in mind, people now wear them in all walks of life.
All sneakerheads recognize the Air Jordan 1 as one of the most essential shoes for any collection.
5. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
While Nike and Adidas make some of the best sneakers on the market, other brands have produced some equally iconic shoes over the years.
The Converse All-Star first hit the shelves almost 100 years ago and has been an incredibly popular shoe ever since.
The All-Star was one of the first shoes designed specifically for basketball, although they have not been seen on the court much in decades. After Chuck Taylor lent his name to the brand, the All-Star quickly became one of the most popular shoes on the planet, and it won’t be going anywhere any time soon.
6. Yeezy Boost 350 V2
Celebrity collaborations with sneaker brands tend to do quite well, but few have been as successful as the Yeezy line. These came after Kanye West left Nike and began working with Adidas, leading to several models of trendy sneakers.
The Yeezy boost 350 was a huge hit when it was released, with the V2 being equally popular. They have a very unique look, and the Primekit-woven upper along with the boost cushion provide unrivaled comfort.
7. Vans Old Skool
Most of the popular sneakers on this list were originally designed as basketball shoes, but the Vans Old Skool stands apart as a skate shoe. With that being said, it still serves very well for everyday wear.
They hit the shelves in 1977, and stood out for their comfort on the deck as well as off. The iconic stripe vans are known for first appeared on these, and they have since been made available in countless different patterns and styles.
Over the years the Vans Old Skool has seen some of the biggest sneaker collaborations of all time, working with various artists, labels, and bands.
8. Reebok Club C
Reebok is another brand that has released several iconic sneakers over the years. Originally named the Club Champion, it was re-released on its 35th anniversary as the Club C.
The padded lining and leather upper give an impressive amount of comfort. The classic Reebok window box logo gives them a retro feel that many sneakerheads love.
While these may not be as popular as some of the other sneakers on this list, they remain an iconic design and can fit very well into your collection.
9. Adidas Originals Stan Smith
After the Superstar, the Adidas original is probably the most famous shoe Adidas has to offer. This is a tennis shoe named after a tennis legend – Stan Smith.
Sometimes less is more, and these are proof of that. They have a very simple design that has become very popular amongst different crowds. This type of design makes them well suited for any occasion, and it’s easy to style them with the rest of your wardrobe.
Beyond this, there have been many collaborations and redesigns over the years, working like a canvas that people can build upon, adding their own style to the shoe. The simple white leather and green accenting of the original design is timeless, and this will remain a solid look for years to come.
10. Nike Dunks
Another hugely popular basketball sneaker from Nike, the Dunks grew from inspiration derived from the Jordan 1s, Air Force 1s, and other basketball shoes. The result is one of the most recognizable sneakers on the planet.
The Dunks have been around since the 1980s, and are still a common choice among collectors. They have a very similar design to the Jordan 1s and are available in a huge range of colors and styles.
Nike released several new colorways in 2019, showing this shoe is still in very high demand and will be for years to come.
Building the Perfect Sneakerhead Collection
All of the shoes on this list, and many more, are widely considered essential in any sneakerhead collection. The only limits are your own style choices and your budget.
When building your collection, think about what sneakers stand out to you, and if you spend extra on any particularly rare pairs, take care of them!
If you’re interested in more fashion articles, check out some of our other blogs.
