Sneaker Releases of 2026 to Watch Out for
The sneaker industry is poised for an exciting 2026 as many brands within sports, lifestyle, and fashion gear up to release some of the most anticipated kicks of the year.
From retro classics and big-time collaborations to innovative performance and futuristic silhouettes, these upcoming drops offer something to sneakerheads, whether they seek nostalgia or fashion.
The sneaker culture keeps growing with exciting new Air Jordan Retro releases and brands like Nike and adidas both continuing to expand their signature lines and new fresh designs that represent comfort and style.
With global hype increasing rapidly, sneaker release calendars are filling quickly, shaping a landmark year in sneaker history.
Nike Air Max 95 “Neon”
Retail Price: 180$
Release Date’; March 5, 2026
The Nike Air Max 95 is set to launch this March 2026 to celebrate Air Max Day. The pair was released in April this year with a limited pairs. With its debut back in 1995, the “Neon” colorway has been considered one of the most iconic classics ever since. The shoe is known for its gradient suede upper with black and gray layers. It highlights vibrant Volt accents in the Swoosh, tongue branding, and within the visible Air Max unit. This sneaker showcased the balance of sport utility and street style that still resonates today.
BAPE x adidas Samba World Cup Pack
Retail Price: 160$
Release Date: February 1, 2026
The FIFA World Cup is one of the most-watched televised sports events in history. With the upcoming World Cup this June 2026, adidas and BAPE are teaming up again with a sneaker and apparel collab. These 2 brands have one of the longest partnerships in the shoe game. The adidas Samba is one of the three iconic silhouettes that were included in the collection. The sneaker is reimagined with a white leather upper and green accents in the three stripes branding and heel. The three stripes logo is replaced by the iconic BAPE star logo on one side of the shoe.
View photos of all these sneakers here:
Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam”
Retail Price: 235$
Release Date’: Holiday 2026
Another classic has made a comeback this year. The Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam” is officially releasing this Holiday 2026 to celebrate its 30thanniversary of the film. The iconic sneaker was worn by Michael Jordan in the movie Space Jam. The pair will also be available for Christmas 2026. Jordan Brand has not confirmed the exact design of the pair, whether it uses Concord or blue detailing, whether the heel number is 23 or 45, or whether it has a lower cut patent leather. With 2 scheduled releases of the pair next year, this might be one of the most hyped releases of the brand.
Nike Kobe 8 “Mambacurial”
Retail Price: 200$
Release Date’: Fall 2026
One of Kobe Bryant’s most ambitious sneakers is returning in Protro form. While Kobe graduated in Philly, some parts of his teenage life were spent in Italy, the country where he showcased his love for soccer. The “Mambacurial” colorway pays homage to Kobe Bryant’s on-court intensity with inspiration from the soccer cleat, Nike Mercurial Vapor IX. The design is built for speed and storytelling. The upper has a candy-colored gradient and volt green accents in the Swoosh, tongue logo, and the outsole. It also has black accents on the midsole and laces. The medial side of the shoe features a large Nike logo. The colorway remains iconic as it really shows the Black Mamba’s love for soccer.
New Balance 2002R “Protection Pack”
Retail Price: 150$
Release Date’: Spring 2026
The New Balance 2002R continues to evolve as they release another “Protection Pack” series. The GORE-TEX edition is bringing out three fresh aesthetic silhouettes with weather-ready construction. The first pair features a light grey, showing an interpretation of the brand’s OG grey. It highlights the recognizable jagged overlays and rendered in tonal suede and leather. Subtle accents are added by pops of pale blue, dark grey, and tan in the sole unit that enhances the minimal palette. Meanwhile, the other two colorways also maintain a grey leather base, one bringing a “Triple Black” aesthetic, giving a stealthy look that complements the Gore-Tex construction, while the other pair embraces a wheat-toned colorway that gives a fall or winter vibe.
