PAUSE Picks: Top Sneaker Releases of the Week

It’s Vans’ world, we’re just living in it. Coming through with yet another stellar entry, skate titans Vans have put forward the best “back to school” pair on the market: the Vans Premium Authentic 44 Shoes. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it comes to mind here, with Vans ensuring that the oldies stay golden. Vans utilise the iconic blank canvas of the Premium Authentic 44 Shoes here, with the simple yet effective pair featuring a heritage low-top style, full grain leather collar lining, a blue and white woven flag label, an elevated sidewall adorned with a gloss finish, Sola Foam All-Day-Comfort, as well as an long-lasting canvas composition. Iconic and ready for a new year in the action.

Looking to impress your local run club? Pick up a pair of the new PUMA x SAYSKY MagMax NITRO 2 running shoes. Coming in a striking “Vivid Blue,” the cushioned pair’s upper is composed from at least 30% recycled materials, utilising high-performance features like a NITROFOAM sole unit and durable PUMAGRIP traction. We call these the “head turners,” because people will be craning to catch a glimpse out in the open.

Rounding out the summer months with some much-needed outdoor time? A big hike ahead? Danner’s new MTN GTX hiking boot is exactly what you need, and it’s just arrived in this dashing “Bone Brown” colourway. Built for those long-haul missions, Danner’s MTN45 Mid GTX delivers on its plethora of promises, boasting next-level stability, waterproofed GORE-TEX Invisible Fit technology, as well as Danner-exclusive Vibram N45 Plus outsoles, which provide much-needed traction on wet and dry surfaces. The best thing about Danner is that they go beyond the hiking trails and into your everyday. Trust us, grab these and they’ll be getting a lot of wear.

Louis Vuitton just “dropped” their LV Drop 300, and we’re very glad they did. Taking inspiration from their ultra-lightweight composition, 300 grams to be precise, the LV Drop 300 is streamlined to perfection, with vintage running design references being intertwined throughout this new silhouette. LV Initials and a rubber Monogram Flower at the back sign off this new model, making those around you know what you’re rocking on feet.

You don’t get much more minimalist than the Adidas Stan Smith Lo Ballets. Swapping out the iconic “Three Stripes” for an “IYKYK” batch of dotted Adidas branding, the new Adidas Stan Smith Lo Ballets arrive in a classic “Core Black” leather iteration, featuring luxurious soft premium leather, hook-and-loop straps, and a sturdy texture outsole. The hype is still here.