New Balance ML1550
Trainers hybrids have a tendency to look like an experiment gone wrong (there’s a reason the originals were created separately, right?) Luckily, New Balance has dodged this outcome with its 1550 model. A meet-in-the middle of the US brand’s classic 1500 and 1600, the trainers features a neoprene upper for sock like comfort and fit and a lightweight and supportive Revlite sole. Available at JD Sports, priced £85.
Acne Studios Adrian Doughnut Sneaker
Where would we be without emojis? Is there a better way to express your innermost feelings than by sending an aubergine? Or a more to-the-point method of telling somewhere their kicks are fire than by sending, well, fire? We think not. Feeling the same way, Acne has created a whole capsule collection celebrating emojis, applying graphics like a sugary pink doughnut to the soft calf leather uppers of its Adrian Sneaker. [Insert sassy dancing lady here.] Available at End, priced £329. 
Clae said its 2015 tie-up with streetwear expert Publish Brand was one of its best-selling collaborations of all time. So it only makes good business sense that the pair are at it again. Limited to only 500 pairs worldwide, the Bradley mid-top sneaker is a new take on court shoe style, rendered in luxurious oiled suede in a blacked-out build and finished with a contrast white neoprene ankle collar. Available at Hanon, priced £115.
Puma Suede Emboss
Anyone with a head on their shoulders (and wants to keep it) has little urge to get up close and personal with the world’s most dangerous creatures. That is, of course, unless its in the form of Puma’s new reptile-effect Suede sneakers. The 1960s low-profile legend has been taken for a walk on the wild side, gaining scale-embossed rear panels to flank the tonal suede and chunky outsole. Get yours before they slither off the shelves. Available at JD Sports, priced £60.
ETQ Low 4 Alloy Ton-Sur-Ton
ETQ is known for setting a high watermark when it comes to well-appointed, minimal trainers. So obviously we were excited to learn of the addition of all-new styles to the Amsterdam brand’s line-up. The Low 4 is a rubberised leather sneaker with tonal trims and a contrast rubber cup sole unit. And because minimal doesn’t mean muted in ETQ’s world, the latest drop comes in a range of shades including Blueberry and Alloy. Available at ETQ, priced £213.
