PAUSE Picks: Top Sneaker Releases of the Week

Despite the jury being out for this collaboration, there’s no doubt that Stüssy collaborations often end up paving the way for future trends, and don’t be surprised if the same happens here. The Stüssy x Birkenstock Solana arrives in a trio of colours, with this ‘Washed Green’ iteration proving to be the very pick of the bunch as it boasts a light wash lime green across the rich suede adjustable velcro closure, with the latter’s signature cork sole, co-branded accents, as well as a shearling-lined upper completing the divisive pair. Open toes for winter? It’s bold to say the least.

Look, it might not be brand new, but it’s definitely worth being noted. The NOCTA x Nike Air Force 1 Certified Lover Boy is back for a re-release as the iconic triple white Nike mainstay receives the subtlest of makeovers, with this pair utilising a luxe pebbled leather, “Love You Forever” midsole script, as well as textured love heart grips on the front toe. Every season is Drizzy season.

END’s collaborations continue as we head into the new year, with adidas the latest titan of industry to be tapped up. Unsurprisingly, the Samba is the sneaker to be redesigned here as a subtle beige suede base works alongside a traditionally woven textile fabric T-toe and colourful vintage tapestries on the adidas 3-Stripes, heel tab, an insole, with TikTok-famous frayed edges providing a slightly more distressed vintage look. Everything you could want in an adidas Samba.

A more sporty vibe touches down through the long-awaited ASICS x Cecilie Bahnsen GT-2160, putting a playful twist on the former’s current favourite silhouette. Adding some childlike wonder to the pair, the Copenhagen-born fashion designer inserts a floral ripstop velcro upper to keep your shoes close to your foot and makes sure you’re ready for anything and everything, with a silver mesh underlay, a segmented structured midsole, GEL technology, and a striking blue colour palette putting forward a certified hit for the upcoming fashion month.

Lastly, the Dime x Reebok Club C Bulc looks to provide a more budget-friendly alternative to the silver Wales Bonner x adidas Samba hit of the summer. This chunkier sneaker arguably puts forward a more jack-of-all-trades iteration as a skate-ready silhouette works tastefully with this one-of-one silver colour scheme, whilst fattened contrasting brown and beige laces stops this pair from becoming monotonous. A black leather takes to the toe and heel alongside Reebok lettering – with Dime’s branding sitting pretty on the midfoot – and a mixed grey and gum outsole makes certain that this pair are ready for the long haul.