The final days of December are upon us and 'tis the season for the Hypebeast team to come together and look back at which new sneakers we enjoyed the most throughout the year. 10 different footwear brands ended up making the list, encompassing everything from Cecilie Bahnsen's flower-covered ASICS to Kyrie Irving's debut lifestyle silhouette with ANTA. Each pair has a personal connection to its owner and offers a glimpse behind the scenes at what styles captured our attention in 2024. Enjoy the passionate breakdowns and special stories below and be sure to share which shoe you would add to the list!
POST ARCHIVE FACTION (PAF) x On Cloudventure Peak
It's no secret that the sneaker industry is in desperate pursuit of newness. While brands like On and HOKA have made breakthroughs, the styles proposed failed to hold my attention for long. That all changed when POST ARCHIVE FACTION (PAF) entered the mix. By tapping the elegant South Korean technical label, On saw its Cloudmonster 2 evolve from just another performance shoe to a perfect fusion of function and form.
I was sold on the project the moment I browsed through images of the duo's Paris Fashion Week pop-up in June of last year. However, their follow-up showcase in January elevated it from a "want" to a "need" when the two revealed their Cloudventure Peak -- the epitome of a slick, low-profile shoe. From there, I patiently waited until one fateful November night when I emerged victorious with an order confirmation.
Having established an overwhelming amount of anticipation over the course of 18 months, doubt crept into my mind while awaiting its arrival. Could a shoe, from a brand I've never interacted seriously with, really live up to these absurd expectations? Well, I'm happy to report that the answer is yes. A discernible feeling of excitement emanates from every step with my pair as I embrace its comfort and beauty. - Logan Fairbrother, Associate Editor
P. Andrade x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14
Global brands often engage with Brazilian creatives for local projects – a strategy that, while impactful, rarely transcends borders or taps into the broader potential of these collaborators.
Challenging the status quo, ASICS and P. Andrade unveiled an original release that blends local inspiration with global appeal. Rooted in the story of an Amazonian beetle, this design captured my attention with its mix of innovation and cultural narrative, resulting in a sneaker that feels as experimental as it is elegant. Its wide distribution underscores its universal resonance, and it captured the attention of streetwear enthusiasts and sneaker aficionados alike, a result I hope to see from even more projects involving Brazilian brands going forward.
With its compelling backstory and a bold aesthetic that bridges worlds, this collaboration is not just a standout for the year – it sets a new standard for how brands can leverage local creativity to create globally relevant projects. - Marcus Vinicius, Social Media Manager
Procell x Mephisto Match
When I think of what makes a “good” sneaker in the current market — one that, by any measure, is oversaturated, overbearing, and frankly, as far as I see it, flat-out corny most of the time (yes, I’ve been in the game long enough to be grumpy about it) — one word keeps coming to mind: intention.
A “good” sneaker is one that’s done with intent, done with purpose. It tells a layered story: you can get part of the “why” behind it by simply looking at it, but if you’re familiar with the collaborators or simply willing to dig a little deeper, you’ll be rewarded even further. And as far as I see it, no shoe was more intentional than the Procell x Mephisto Match this year.
If you look at it without the backstory, you’ll see a premium, made-in-France silhouette constructed of the highest quality leather and suede. You’ll see the Procell badge on the tongue above Mephisto’s logo, and that the left shoe’s window has been altered to read “New York” as an homage to Procell’s home city. If you want to keep pulling the thread, there’s much more to discover too. I won’t give it all away and deprive you of the joys of your own research, but a few of my favorite bits are how the colorway nods to British automotive manufacturers like Jaguar and Land Rover and also provides a salute to Ralph Lauren, how the shoe is a culmination of Procell co-founder Brian Procell’s lifelong love of the brand and how it’s the first domino to fall in what I believe will be a big wave for Mephisto in 2025 and beyond. Everything the Procell team does is done with intention. That’s communicated clearly and beautifully here.
Plus, they’re simply wearable and comfortable as f*ck and get better the more miles you put on ‘em. I’ll be dogging these for the foreseeable future, no doubt. - Ross Dwyer, Managing Editor
Kids of Immigrants x Nike Air Max Sunder
The Kids of Immigrants x Nike Air Max Sunder “Sun Down” is my sneaker of the year pick and I’m thrilled to own a pair. Everything from the storytelling and detailing to its intricate rollout made this a special release. Given that the Air Max Sunder is one of my favorite Nikes, I was ecstatic when I saw that it was finally returning this year. At first, I would have picked the OG “Canyon Gold” colorway, but the KOI collaboration dropping at the tail end of the year was timed perfectly.
Being half Latino, one of my favorite details is the calling card included – something that resonates with me because when I was younger, I’d have to find a BOSS Calling Card from the local supermarket for my Mom to call home. The heartfelt promo video for the campaign gave me goosebumps as well.
In addition to the storytelling, I appreciate the overall execution of the project. The pair is not just a simple colorway flip, instead a complete overhaul of the silhouette with the addition of intersecting paneling, a mini Swoosh at the heel, dusty nubuck at the toe and thoughtful details hidden behind the shroud. These include easter eggs, such as the last four digits of KOI’s phone number and a “name” tag.
This release was extra special to me because KOI co-founder Daniel Buezo signed the shoe box too. The lid really says it all: “$OTY.” - Nick Llanton, Senior Social Producer
Under Armour Apparition
Under Armour joined the “old school running shoe vibes” movement by reissuing its unisex Apparition sneakers this year. I've never understood the logic around wearing an “ugly” sneaker from trendy brands – when opting for a conventionally unattractive style, isn't the whole point to be anti-everything?
With starchy white mesh uppers, the Apparition stands out by barely modifying the classics. Its only intentional style-forward design element is the metallic gunmetal details, a subtly superior option to obvious silver or chrome finishes. The cherry red accents pair with nearly everything and ensure that people notice the UA logo. And they look really, really cute with white socks.
On one hand, I'm earnestly leaning into a post-cool, slightly ironic pursuit of style, strengthened by Under Armour's recent collaboration with Balenciaga. On the other hand, I'm analyzing emerging trends in the sportswear industry. Under Armour is next up with its latest basketball player signings and PE sneakers. This is an exercise in expanding my brand repertoire with selective pieces, something that – when successful – can solidify your footwear game as ahead of the curve. - Kirsten Chen, Creative Strategist
Sporty & Rich x adidas Handball Spezial “Auburn Gum”
adidas Spezial celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, prompting several collaborative reimaginings of classic silhouettes in recent months. Most notably, the Three Stripes tapped long-term partner Sporty & Rich to stamp its vision onto the Handball Spezial – a sleeker-than-the-Samba silhouette. Having well-established their dual-minded design vision as a unit, the tried-and-true sneaker proved to be another perfect canvas to receive a subtle refresh from the Emily Oberg-led label.
Released alongside louder colorways of teal and pink, the brown “Auburn Gum” colorway is calmer on the eyes, with its suede upper blending nicely with the thick brown gum sole. As is the case with all of the preceding Sporty & Rich x adidas footwear offerings, you’d never know Oberg’s lifestyle imprint had a role in the design unless you look closely: there’s subtle Sporty & Rich lettering in white just atop the leather three stripes on the lateral side, as well as on the tongue. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Just stamp a Sporty & Rich label on it. - Elaina Bernstein, Associate Editor
Satoshi Nakamoto x OTW by Vans Old Skool Reissue 36 (Friends & Family)
Vans has kept 2024 in a chokehold, especially with their collaboration featuring Satoshi Nakamoto. These two have had their feet on the gas pedal from the jump and they haven’t let up yet. Featuring a pearlized finish and a “Port Royale” hue that strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern aesthetics, these shoes feel like a piece of wearable art. What really got me, though, is the pre-aged midsole – I love that you can’t tell if I’ve worn them a hundred times or just a handful. Vans is out here playing chess, not checkers, and I’m here for it. Shoutout to Greg Betty on the amazing design work as the collaboration comes in two colorways and two similar general release pairs. And much love to the Satoshi Team – George, Jeff and John – for blessing me with a pair to crash out in! - Erik Dietz, Director of HBX Archives
Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS GEL-TERRAIN “Sepia”
ASICS continues to reinvent itself time and again. Their collabs never miss, but this drop was different. Cecilie Bahnsen's delicate and uniquely feminine style, the padded 3D flowers and the glossy finish turn this shoe into something else! Styling a fit is effortless, just as Bahnsen designed it to be. It’s both sleek and elevated but also technical and lightweight with a speed lacing system for extra functionality. As an added bonus, they're butterfly mark certified! Meet me at the altar in a white dress and these. - Jennifer Sanchez, Director of Brand Partnerships
Salomon Snowclog
I have to say, I was skeptical about these at first, but after one wear I knew I’d be living in them. They’re perfect for my morning coffee runs, trips to the bodega and an intended use: winter road trips and ski season. I cannot wait to slide out of my rigid ski boots and into these cozy clogs after a long day. They’re the kind of shoe you honestly don’t think about taking off. They have perfect grip plus a small platform for unpredictable weather and they look great. Not to mention, multiple people have stopped me and asked where they can find them. I'm gifting these to my entire family this holiday season and you should too. - Logan Slater, Director of Brand Partnerships
Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS GEL-QUANTUM 360 VIII "'Clearly Aqua"
Compliment after compliment – that’s what I get whenever I wear my favorite sneakers of the year: the Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS GEL-QUANTUM 360 VIII "Clearly Aqua.”
Many brands have their flower motifs that work, but I firmly believe what sets these apart is how Bahnsen incorporates them relatively subtly, with just a little flower on each of the straps’ tips. Given how masculine the original GEL-QUANTUM 360 VIII is, she successfully added her typical feminine touch to turn her take on it into a pair of lightweight sandals, cutting away some of the upper’s fabric and decorating the heel counter with a “Clearly Aqua” strap that even gives a nod to Bahnsen with her wordmark.
I’ve had many favorite pairs over the years but would eventually lose interest in wearing them. This time around, I’m pretty sure this won’t happen, as you can alter the upper’s colors almost every single time by styling them with different socks. What a big plus for those who love to mix and match socks and sneakers! - David Cheng, Social Media Coordinator
Guadalupe x PUMA Clyde “Cidade Cinza”
This collaboration celebrates São Paulo, Brazil and the city’s huge cultural community. The “Cidade Cinza” theme is a powerful representation of São Paulo’s unique character and energy. The fact that such a global brand is paying tribute to the city in this way is a huge deal for Brazilian sneaker culture. These sneakers aren't just a fashion statement, they're a symbol of pride and identity. - Julia Reis, Cultural and Community Coordinator
ANTA KAI Tribe "Almond White"
I never thought I’d pick a sneaker from ANTA this year – honestly, the brand wasn’t even on my radar until recently. However, when ANTA and Kyrie Irving's KAI Tribe in "Almond White" came along, it completely won me over with both design and the personal story it holds.
Earlier this year I had the chance to visit mainland China for the first time, where I got a behind-the-scenes look at ANTA’s massive production line, watched local fans go all out for Kyrie, and saw their lifestyle line debut on their very own runway.
This is also Kyrie’s first lifestyle sneaker since joining ANTA, and it was special to preview what his role as Chief Creative Officer has in store for the brand. They even threw in a sneak peek at some exciting unreleased projects, and it’s clear ANTA is making serious moves. - AJ Sacil, Social Media Coordinator
Carnival x ASICS GT-2160 "Concrete Bloom"
Yes, another ASICS shoe! Clearly, the brand is doing something right this year with so many noteworthy in-line and collaborative pairs released. The GT-2160 "Concrete Bloom" – which has been brought to life through a collaboration with Carnival, Bangkok's leading streetwear and sneaker imprint – stands out with its ties to the wonderful city. The shoe highlights the resilience and vibrancy of urban life, drawing inspiration from Bangkok’s dynamic streets. Featuring a blend of natural and metallic tones, the shoe combines gray hues with metallic green and orange accents, a design choice meant to symbolize the beauty of flowers thriving in concrete environments. Its thoughtful material mix of suede, leather and mesh is paired with ASICS’ signature GEL cushioning — making it an easy choice to add to my weekly rotation. - Arthur Parkhouse, Editor and Partnerships, Thailand
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