PAUSE Picks: Top Sneaker Releases of the Week

The adidas Samba simply cannot stay out of the limelight, with this latest joint effort alongside frequent collaborator Wales Bonner proving to be one of the most limited releases yet. Being limited to 750 individually numbered pairs, this standout ‘Black/Gold’ iteration is the pick of the double dose as trendy studs mimic the adidas Three Stripes along the all-black leather upper, with the signature co-branded flat tongue and white stitched detailing completing the pair. Good luck getting your hands on these.

New season, new Teddy Santis. New Balance’s creative director leads the way here with this not-so standout 990v4 Made in USA ‘Grey/White’ pair, which fundamentally proves that understated will always be in fashion. The classic silhouette utilises various shades of grey, white, and cream across the upper and midsole unit, whilst soft buttery suede and smooth white corduroy layer this pair with infinite luxury. Easy cop.

2024’s love affair with ASICS continues as the sporty outfit debut another fresh colourway of their popular Gel-Kayano 14 silhouette. Arriving in a tasteful ‘Cream/Pepper’ iteration, the mesh-based standout do exactly what they need to do, putting forth a futuristic silver patent leather on top of a white mesh base, whilst an earthy ‘Pepper’ brings this pair back down to earth with a splash of bright blue on the heel and midsole. Comfort over style? Never, let’s have both.

Providing some luxury streetwear vibes once again are Rick Owens and frequent collaborator Dr. Martens, with the duo combining for another leather link-up. The high-top 1460 DMXL Megalace Boots do in fact have mega laces, with the beige strapping making its way across pretty much every part of the frontal area, being held down by metallic buckles. An elongated tongue and a robust midsole unit make sure that Rick Owens’ stomping aesthetic shines on through here. So, step into his world and nab a pair.

Rounding out this week on another collaboration, Chinese outfit Feng Chen Wang and Converse reconvene for more of the Chuck Taylor Low, putting forward a two-in-one iteration. The structured pair debut in a slightly beaten colourway and design, with pre-aged midsoles, cut-up double canvas layers, and a gradient style green and cream colour scheme falling in line with the ever-popular vintage aesthetic. Lastly, doses of Feng Chen Wang lettering give this imitable pair a name. A futuristic take on a classic.