As the chill bites, you might expect deep shades and subtle designs from the sneaker world’s major players. But bold colours, strong prints and statement soles lead October’s trainer charge, offering your grey sky looks some sizzle. From must-have hook-ups to shoes that give a last gasp of summer, we’ve rounded up the styles to get your feet into in the coming weeks. Just be careful not to add them all to your basket at once.
West NYC x Saucony Shadow 90 ‘Saltwater Fisherman’
Fishermen have proved a surprising streetwear influence, from floppy-brimmed hats to bright yellow outerwear, so it’s perhaps fitting that West NYC should embrace its inner angler for this take on Saucony’s Shadow 90 trainer. Though maggots are light on the ground, the statement shades of black, white, grey, lilac and pink pay homage to the brightly coloured lures used to entice your catch of the day. Carbon fibre accents to the heel tab and logo give a nod to a fishing rod’s strong yet supple construction, and intentional discolouration of the heel clip represents the wear and tear of a boat’s underside. They’re limited, though, so don’t let these be the ones that got away. Available at End Clothing now.
ASCIS Gel Kayano Gore Tex Red
First released in 1993, the ASICS Gel Kayano trainer has appeared in many iterations over the last two decades. Many have embraced colour in ways unwearable to the modern sneakerhead (more Mr Motivator than #menswear) but a recent run of monochrome takes have proved rather more palatable. Beyond the minimal red colourway, this new Gel Kayano features suede panelling, a rubber heel cage and leather embossed tongue tags, which bring a luxe touch. You also get a waterproof, breathable Gore Tex upper that keeps your feet dry and comfortable, whether you’re heading out for lunch or hitting the track. Available at Hanon from October 16, priced £129.
Adidas Originals Island Trinidad
Originally released in the 1980s, adidas revived its travel-inspired line earlier this year, with trainers in colourways that offer a jaunt round the Caribbean. So despite the ever-present clouds, this burnt orange instalment in adidas Originals’ Island series ensures you’re always stepping out in Trinidadian sunshine. It also drops the day before Halloween, giving you a headstart on that last-minute pumpkin costume. Available at Hanon from October 30, priced £75.
Kith x Highsnobiety x Puma Tale Of Two Cities Pack
This hook-up between Puma and New York sneaker mecca Kith marks the 10th anniversary of lifestyle news site Highsnobiety. Nodding to the brands’ HQs – Kith’s in New York and Highsnobiety’s in Berlin – the models embrace patriotic shades of red, white and blue, interpreted with European minimalism. In the mix we’re treated to quilted suede uppers, premium leather panels, fleck effect rubber soles and gold stamped branding, making for two statement yet sophisticated designs. Now all we have to do is pick a favourite. Available at End Clothing from October 17.
Adidas Consortium x Bape x UNDFTD Superstar 80V
Streetwear giants Bape and Undefeated have returned for a second stab at redesigning Adidas’ classic Superstar trainer, bringing with them the statement camouflage print from their first effort. However, this time around the labels have headed in a bolder direction, opting for all-over pattern in blue, white, black and grey, with vibrant laces and lining to match. The leather upper and embossed gold branding bring that luxury edge to the otherwise casual footwear designs, while the slightly off-white sole transforms the overall feel from from preppy to rugged. We see streetwear connoisseurs around the world joining the queue for these. Available at End Clothing from October 10.
Sneaker Freaker x Puma Blaze Of Glory ‘Bloodbath’
The follow-up to Sneaker Freaker’s shark attack-themed take on Puma’s Blaze of Glory is even gorier. This time, it seems the great whites have found their quarry, with the Bloodbath’s colourway echoed in its tagline: “Just when you thought it was safe…” This is not a trainer for the squeamish, with a crimson upper, ‘river of blood’ transparent outsole inlay, and enamel shark tooth keeping the ocean attack vibe strong. A white sole with touches of sea green lightens the mood a bit, while gold accents to the heel and sole add an opulent finish. Expect a hypebeast feeding frenzy. Available at Hanon now, priced £139.
