PAUSE Picks: Top Sneaker Releases of the Week

Fresh out of the collaborative bank are streetwear icons BAPE and global sportswear kings adidas, with the duo continuing their long-running partnership with the release of a joint adidas Forum Low 84 effort. Making its debut in a standout green, this eye-catching effort dons BAPE’s signature APE camouflage print across the adidas branded upper, with gold APE heads and dubraes, a white midsole, “30” anniversary tongue labelling, and tongue velcro strapping rounding out the main design components. A pair for the ages.

Switching things over to Adidas arch-rivals Nike, this newest release sees Nike x NOCTA make a return as the Hot Step Air Terra silhouettes gets a snake-lead makeover. Being the consistent design aspect of previous OVO and Drake lead releases, a snakeskin print adorns this standout pair in a neutral ‘Lightbone/Cobblestone’ colourway to keep this design close to home, with subtle Nike mini Swoosh heel counter stitching, thin laces, an off white midsole, as well as a gum sole making this a pair for every aspiring summer streetwear outfit.

Many might think the Air Jordan 1 wave is over, with demand having slowed in recent months. However, this effort sees many sneaker heads get back involved with the iconic silhouette, as well as a host of Marvel fans. Arriving as part of the roll-out for the highly-anticipated animated Spider Man: Across the Spiderverse (2023) film, this high-top standout features a multi-patterned red leather which is carefully layered over the white base leather, whilst an even paler shade of red creeps its way up the ankle area. A semi-reflective black Nike Swoosh and ankle area, black laces and a red outsole make this a must cop for any self-respecting Marvel and Spider-Man aficionado – as well as the average sneaker head.

adidas’s OG Samba have arguably been the most unexpected hit of 2023 so far, with an array of artist collaborations having take over the jumble silhouette. With this new ‘White/Green’ colourway simplicity wins as adidas’ classic rich leather composition for the Samba is taken over by a crispy white and subtly lined with an inoffensive grey suede toe box, whilst three green adidas stripes take their place on the midfoot. Rear hits of green as well as a dark green gum midsole round out the sneaker alongside some stark “SAMBA” midfoot lettering. Ride the wave.

Seeming as it’s summer, a slider is a must as the temperature begins to creep up. For this dose of something new, market leaders Crocs have made their unmistakable mark as they lead the way with a pair of their Mellow Slide silhouette, debuting in a stark black colourway and featuring tasteful debossed “Crocs” lettering. Lastly, the relatively stripped-back pair rock an open-toe shape as well as side perforation for added ventilation and comfort, making this a pair with both style and substance.