by Mark Haddon

Best sneakers of the week

This week’s top drops include the Nike Dunk Hi x Wu-Tang collab, N...
Best sneakers of the week

In this week’s sneaker column, we’re diving into the hottest releases that have just hit the shelves. From iconic throwbacks to boundary-pushing collaborations, the lineup brings together some of the industry’s most exciting names and styles. Leading the charge is the long-awaited Nike Dunk Hi x Wu-Tang Clan collab, reviving an icon with serious street cred. Also in the mix, we have New Balance’s latest venture with Salehe Bembury, PUMA’s edgy designs with Skepta and A$AP Rocky, and more can’t-miss drops from top-tier brands. Whether you’re a sneaker purist or always on the lookout for the next big statement piece, these picks offer something for every kind of collector and casual wearer alike.

NIKE DUNK HI RETRO PRM SNEAKER £199
www.presentedby.com
15 Percy Street, London, W1

The Nike Dunk Hi Retro Premium Wu-Tang Clan sneaker reemerges as an iconic fusion of streetwear, modern luxury, and hip-hop legacy. Originally released in a hyper-limited run of 36 pairs in 1999, this legendary sneaker now returns with the same unmistakable style that made it a grail among collectors. Crafted from premium leather, it maintains the bold black and yellow color blocking that nods to Wu-Tang Clan's enduring influence. Details like the padded collar and exposed tonal stitching elevate its classic high-top design, while the group’s emblem on the tongue and heel pays homage to its Staten Island roots. For any sneakerhead, this reissue is not just footwear—it's a cultural statement.
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New Balance 740v2 x Aminé 'Benson Tech' £105

Aminé and New Balance have joined forces once more, this time on the 740 silhouette, creating a sneaker that’s as much a tribute as it is a style statement. This release draws inspiration from Benson Tech High School—Aminé’s alma mater and the birthplace of his music journey. The distinctive royal blue and orange colorway isn’t just a nod to bright aesthetics; it’s a heartfelt homage to the school that kickstarted his career.

The sneaker’s upper combines a vibrant double-layer orange mesh, overlaid with patent panels in deep electric blue and cobalt. True to Aminé’s signature flair, iridescent accents add a subtle yet eye-catching shimmer, giving the 740 a unique sparkle similar to the previous “Mooz” release. The combination of bold colors and glossy textures makes this sneaker stand out, not only as a collector’s piece but also as a piece of Aminé’s personal history.

With its blend of nostalgia and modern style, the 740 “Benson Tech” is a testament to Aminé’s journey and is sure to resonate with fans of both the artist and the brand.

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NIKE AIR MAX 1 '86 PRM SNEAKER £145
www.endclothing.com
Nike revives a true classic with the Air Max 1 '86 PRM, blending heritage design with fresh, modern flair. This new iteration stays true to the original 1986 "Big Bubble" look, with a vibrant color-blocked upper made from mesh, textile, and smooth suede for a premium feel. The iconic oversized Air unit, a nod to the ‘86 model’s groundbreaking cushioning, delivers both style and support, making it a perfect blend of performance and retro aesthetic. Signature Nike logos on the tongue, heel, and sidewalls round out the design, showcasing Nike's attention to heritage details in a standout sneaker.
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NEW BALANCE 530 x Salehe Bembury £120
New Balance and Salehe Bembury bring the outdoors to urban style with their latest nature-inspired edition of the 530 sneaker. Drawing from Salehe’s journey through Kyoto’s iconic bamboo forest, this iteration uses vibrant tones and premium materials to evoke the colors and textures of nature. A volt green mesh base stands out against overlays of nubuck and synthetic fabrics in cool grey and metallic silver, while rich purple and bright green accents capture the forest’s lively vegetation and glimpses of the sky. The pre-aged ABZORB foam midsole ensures comfortable, cushioned steps, making this sneaker as functional as it is striking.
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Puma Inhale Distressed Neoprene x A$AP Rocky £115
www.sneakersnstuff.com

PUMA teams up once again with A$AP Rocky for a new collection that brings the high-energy allure of night racing straight to the street. At the heart of the lineup is the reimagined PUMA Inhale, which merges motorsport aesthetics with A$AP Rocky’s signature style. This revamped Inhale model features a neoprene upper with bold heat-cut flames that surround the iconic Formstrip, reflecting the glow of neon city lights and the energy of high-speed pursuits.

The distressed treatment and wire lace closure add an industrial edge, echoing the rugged, quick-adapt qualities of racing gear. Meanwhile, the translucent gradient sole keeps things fresh, with cushioning that’s built for urban adventures. Finished with a custom FLACKO logo on the tongue and a printed footbed, this sneaker stands as both a nod to the racetrack and a statement piece on the street. An absolute must for fans of performance-inspired design with a stylish edge.

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Nike Shox TL £155

www.nike.com

Nike revives a 2003 classic with the re-release of the Shox TL, bringing back the unmistakable mechanical cushioning that made it a game-changer. This updated Shox TL features a breathable mesh upper that allows for optimal ventilation, while full-length Nike Shox technology, characterized by resilient, spring-like columns, provides next-level impact absorption.

This reissue stays true to the original 2003 design, capturing the nostalgia of early 2000s street style with precision. The molded overlays across the midfoot enhance support, giving wearers a snug, locked-in feel, and the TPU plate in the heel offers added stability, ensuring this sneaker performs just as well on the streets as it does in terms of style. With its bold aesthetic and cutting-edge technology, the Nike Shox TL continues to stand out as a must-have for those who want a shoe with both performance and iconic flair.

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PUMA X SKEPTA FOREVER MID SNEAKER £199

Skepta’s creative partnership with PUMA takes a bold turn with the release of the Forever Mid Sneakers, a rugged, elevated twist on the original low-cut silhouette. Known for his “no hype, no adlibs” approach, the King of Grime brings his unmistakable style to these sneakers, fusing tech-luxe with an outdoor edge.

Designed for those who venture off the beaten path, the Forever Mid is crafted with sturdy leather uppers and a heightened ankle collar, adding a robust element suited for both urban and trail settings. The addition of hiking boot-inspired laces reinforces the sneaker’s adventurous spirit, while maintaining Skepta’s signature sleek aesthetic.

Underfoot, the chunky Forever sole delivers dependable support and standout style, featuring a high-shine chrome insert that gives these sneakers a unique finish. With its powerful design, the PUMA Forever Mid blends durability with Skepta’s refined touch, making it an ideal addition for those looking to make a statement on any terrain.

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Crep Protect Wide Laces £5.00
Crep Protect’s Wide Laces bring a fresh look to your sneakers, now available at JD Sports and crepprotect.com. Made from durable polyester, these laces are built to last and are fully waterproof, offering added resilience against the elements. Their wide design adds a bold touch, perfect for anyone looking to elevate their sneaker style with durability and standout appeal. Ideal for sneakerheads who want both long-lasting quality and a distinctive look in every step.
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Vans Knu Skool Black and White Trainers £80
The Vans Knu Skool trainers bring a modern twist to the classic Old Skool silhouette, channeling the unmistakable ‘90s skate style. This re-imagined design features a standout 3D-molded Vans Sidestripe that gives the iconic detail a fresh dimension. Built with a generously cushioned, puffy tongue and collar, these sneakers don’t just capture the ‘90s aesthetic but also prioritize comfort. The black and white colourway keeps things timeless and versatile, ensuring these kicks fit seamlessly into any skate-inspired wardrobe.
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Mark Haddon

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Mark Haddon is a seasoned fashion journalist with a flair for capturing the pulse of contemporary style. Known for his insightful commentary and trend-spotting acumen, Mark brings a unique perspective to fashion journalism, blending a sharp editorial eye with a deep understanding of the industry's evolution.