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Every years holds a new debate of the most comfortable sneaker on the market. New and familiar brands come around to get a crack at claiming their products are the comfiest available in the sneaker world. Here are a few of my personal favorites.

Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0

The Adidas Ultra Boost is universally regarded as one of the most comfortable sneakers of the 2010s. Yes, there are sneakers on the market that are more comfortable, but not nearly as widely recognized for overall comfort and style as the Ultra Boost.

Boost literally made Adidas cool again. Sure, to some Adidas has never went out of style. However, before the introduction of Boost and later Kanye West’s infamous Yeezy line, Adidas was always looked at as little brother to their American-based competitor headquartered in Oregon. The invention of Boost technology allowed the Adidas Ultra Boost to become one of the most worn comfortable kicks of all time. When they first came out, people were wearing them as lifestyle shoes because of their comfort levels and cloud-like feel on foot.

Personal favorites: Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0

Many argue over which version of the Ultra Boost is best and most comfortable. Adidas wanted to tweak the iconic silhouette and came out with multiple iterations of the ultra comfy Ultra Boost. Comparing different versions is like comparing a pull over hoodie to a zip up hoodie. Both (or all) versions are comfortable, but the favorite comes down to personal opinions and preferences.

The Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0 quickly became known as the most comfortable pair of sneakers available when they first came out in 2015. Adidas Boost technology brought a new feel to the sneaker world. Made out of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) pellets which gets molded into foam capsules, Boost tech provides an airy and responsive cushioning. Adidas boasted this technology which stayed true to its initial comfort levels even after miles and years of continuous use.

New Balance 990v5

New Balance has always been known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. An American-based brand that prides itself on quality is sure to create some pretty comfortable sneakers. The 990s are a staple in the sneaker community, especially in specific regions like the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia).

Personal favorites: NB 990v5 — Photo via New Balance

The 990v5 and other versions of the 990 are often referred to as a classic “dad shoe.” Most dads aren’t worried as much about the look of a sneaker as they are in terms of overall comfort and feel on foot. There’s a reason why the New Balance 990v5 is so popular amongst younger and older crowds alike – they provide ultra comfort for individuals constantly on the go. The dad shoe trend is still alive and well. New Balance used to be viewed as an average and often overlooked brand in the sneaker world. Now, tons of NB sneakers are seen as stylish and even cool by countless sneaker enthusiasts.

Nike Air Foamposite

Although the Nike Foamposite feels like a brick on feet, they are definitely comfortable and feel secure when worn correctly. Foams are perfect winter sneakers as they provide comfort, warmth, and secureness to handle all the conditions.

The sock-like fit of the Foamposite feels like the inner lining molds to your feet for secure and unique fit overall. Nike definitely didn’t hold back with the heavyweight materials on the Foams, but not without implementing comfort to these tanks of sneakers. Nike Foamposites are some of my personal favorites because of their underrated comfort and high durability especially against inclement weather.

Air Jordan 11

Not typically viewed as a “comfortable sneaker,” this pick is definitely biased but not without valid reasoning. The Air Jordan 11 is surprisingly comfortable with a secure and

The Air Jordan 11 is easily one of my personal favorites in terms of wearable Jordans. Although they aren’t breathable at all (literally a sauna for your feet in the summer), the Air Jordan 11 provides noticeable comfort and ample ankle support. There’s a reason why the Jordan 11s are some of the most worn Jordans by basketball players all over the world.

New Balance 550

Although there are more universally comfortable sneakers from New Balance, the 550 is without a doubt comfort sleeper. Brought back and retroed thanks to Teddy Santis at Aime Leon Dore, the New Balance 550 keeps a classic feel and touch.

This retro silhouette isn’t meant for walking all day. However, it’s a solid comfortable sneaker perfect for a walk through the park or a day in the city. A lightweight feel caps it off and makes the New Balance 550s one of my personal favorites in terms of comfort and wearability.

Personal Favorites: Honorable Mentions

The Nike Air Max 1, Air Jordan 5, Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 v2, and New Balance 990v4 are all some personal favorites which made my honorable mention list. Other honorable mentions include the Nike Roshe Run and the New Balance 574.

All of these sneakers are personal favorites in terms of comfort through countless hours of use and comparing to other pairs in my collection. Comfort is both objective and subjective simultaneously. As my collection changes, so will some of my personal favorites in various aspects.

This year has provided the sneaker community with countless notable releases. Nike and Jordan Brand have dominated the best drops like they have been year in and year out over the past five plus years. With the exception of a few years when Adidas first came out with the Yeezy line, Nike has been almost untouchable in terms of producing the most noteworthy sneaker releases. Everyone has their personal favorites of the year for their own reasons and rationale. The best releases are always a topic of discussion towards the end of every year; every list is obviously subjective which draws more attention than staying impartial and objective.

This year in particular has been full of recognizable collaborations and classic pairs that were re-released. Every personal list differs based on preferences, personal pickups, and numerous other deciding factors. This list does not include every “hyped” sneaker to release in 2022; personal favorites are unique as they highlight individual style and taste. It is always tough to only pick a few sneakers when a year typically experiences numerous notable releases. The list below does not portray the overall magnitude of all of the distinguished sneakers released in 2022.

Top 5 Personal Favorites (2022)

Nike Air Max 1 NH Treeline

Released in early May, the Treelines were an instant hit. Although there was not too much hype before the pair released, this pair became an instant favorite for countless Air Max lovers. The materials truly stand out on this pair; suede, canvas, and mesh cover the outdoor-themed sneakers. Earth tones with hints of pink and a green suede mudguard give a new look to the classic Air Maxes and provide a fresh appearance for the timeless trainers.

The Treelines are an excellent option in the spring and summer for a pop of color when the weather is typically suede-friendly. Nike executed a new twist on a classic model to as close to perfection as possible. The earth tone craze has run rampant over the past few years; Nike knew what the people would gravitate to when they dropped the Treelines.

Notable sneaker releases: Nike Air Max 1 Treeline

The Nike Air Max 1 Treelines provide a much needed breath of fresh air; the colorway is unlike any classics and gives a sense of ingenuity to the well-known silhouette.

New Balance 550 x Aimé Leon Dore Purple

Yes, a brand besides Nike makes my personal list this year. New Balance has proved to be a worthy competitor to the regular sneaker industry leaders in the recent past. Aimé Leon Dore (ALD) reintroduced the New Balance 550 with their collaboration in 2020 and the duo has not looked back since. Teddy Santis, the founder of ALD, brings a new swag to New Balance and revitalized the brand’s image especially with his latest creativity.

The NB 550 is no stranger to working with Santis, as they have released multiple clean colorways that compliment the timeless model extremely well. Earlier this year, Aimé Leon Dore released brown, olive, and purple colorways of the 550. All of the combos are distinguishable and match well with many other colors. Specifically, the purple colorway provides a unique look that pairs well with neutral tones. Teddy Santis did not disappoint with his recent releases in collaboration with New Balance. The tandem show no signs of slowing down and will continue to release clean 550s while allowing countless people access to the sneakers.

Notable sneaker releases: New Balance 550 x Aimé Leon Dore Purple — NB 550

Air Jordan 3 Fire Red

Another classic makes the list for 2022. Jordan 3s are one of my favorite Jordan silhouettes and are easily in my top three models of all time. The elephant print produces a unique look that sets the sneakers apart from its relatives in the Jordan family. One of the more sought after silhouettes, Jordan 3s paired with an ageless colorway are bound to make the lists of many sneaker enthusiasts no matter the year.

The Jordan 3 Fire Red was highly anticipated and became one of the more notable sneaker releases before this year even started. Since its 2013 predecessor, Jordan 3 fans were anxiously waiting for the Fire Reds to drop with the original Nike Air branding. The 2022 version of this pair is arguably one of the best renditions of the timeless colorway since being originally released in 1988. Other J3 Fire Red retros did not include the coveted “Nike Air” on the shoe’s back tab. This branding alone increases the number of sneaker enthusiasts looking to secure a pair; the Jumpman logo is not nearly as popular with older and younger crowds alike.

Can’t beat a clean Jordan 3 with the Nike Air on the heel tab

Damn near executed to perfection *chef’s kiss*

Notable sneaker releases: Air Jordan 3 Fire Red

A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 4 Violet Ore

The Jordan 4s have undoubtedly taken over as the hottest Jordan model of 2022. From the Military Blacks to the Red Thunders to the Canyon Purples, the classic silhouette has proved to be one of the most popular in the Jordan line over the past year. A Ma Maniére (AMM) released numerous high quality Jordans including the 1s, 2s, and 3s. The release of the Violet Ores continues their epic run in an exciting fashion; the materials are not lacking just like the previous AMM sneaker drops. A high quality collaboration with a respected brand like A Ma Maniére on one of the most recognized Jordan models in recent history proves to be a worthy sneaker of the year in many people’s personal lists.

Many sneakerheads consider A Ma Maniére collaborations to be of higher than normal quality for most Jordans. Although the Jordan 4s are still good quality, the suede was not up to par with previous AMM sneakers released in the recent past. Regardless, the AMM 4s are a sneaker of the year contender as one of the most notable sneaker releases.

A Ma Maniére produces quality sneakers with exciting stories and themes. Social Status and AMM are for the people; they always prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in the sneaker community.

Jordan 1 High Taxi

The colorway alone makes this a personal favorite of this year. Steelers, Pirates, Penguins all in one pair of shoes. Pittsburgh pride runs deep; there’s no better pair of shoes to wear on game day than the Taxi 1s. If this pair released a few years ago when the Jordan 1 High craze was at its peak, the resell value would be at least double of the current market price. The hype for the Taxis was high, but not high enough for people to miss out on if they put in some effort to purchase the sneakers on the release day in September of this year.

Jordan 1s will always be a clean and classic silhouette no matter the demand or popularity surrounding the model. The Taxis will be timeless pair of Jordans that people will look back in the future and realize how good of a pair Jordan Brand released. Classic white and yellow color blocking keeps the well-known pattern going on the pair as well. The materials are obviously not Shattered Backboard-like, but are still better than the quality of most recent Jordan 1 Highs.

Unofficial official Yinzer Jordan 1s

City of Champions Highs

Gameday Kicks

Notable sneaker releases: Air Jordan 1 High Taxi

Honorable Mentions

Air Jordan 1 Low Bleached Coral

When people think of Jordan 1s, the automatically think of the high top version. The mids typically have more colorways, but with subpar quality that draws many sneakerheads away from the particular cut. Lows are often hit or miss. Most people leave the majority of Air Jordan 1 Lows alone and only focus on a select few colorways. The Bleached Coral combo is a can’t beat colorway that stands out compared to other color combos.

The materials on the Bleached Corals provide a much needed change from the usual quality of other Jordan 1 Lows. Black cracked leather gives a nice touch to complement the smooth white leather. The Bleached Coral suede surely sticks out for a fresh look. Another pair that makes an excellent summer shoe makes the list for 2022.

Air Jordan 4 Military Black

One of the more sought after Jordan 4s that came out this year boasts a clean and timeless colorway. When the Military Blacks first came out, they had a lot of hype surrounding them earlier this year. Now, this pair is showing no signs of losing any popularity in the foreseeable future. Jordan Brand executed the Military Black 4s extremely well. The pair has above average quality; also, the Military Blacks boasts better than usual quality control.

The light gray suede mudguard is an excellent compliment on the Air Jordan 4 Military Black. Jordan Brand did not let many people down with one of the most notable sneaker releases of2022.

Simple yet timeless colorways typically see the most demand. Almost all of the classic Jordans are clean sneakers that pair well with a variety of clothing pieces. Loud colorways are typically draw a younger crowd compared to ageless sneakers like numerous older Jordans. The Military Blacks are an instant classic that did not disappoint in 2022.

2022 Notable Sneaker Releases

Obviously I could not include all of my favorite sneaker releases to drop this year in this particular list. To get a list down to only five was not an easy task, but it still captures a general overview of sneakers that caught my eye in 2022. All of these sneakers are unique in their own regard; Nike makes up the majority of my recent pickups and my overall collection without a doubt. As time goes on, I am looking to make more of a conscious effort to include other brands in my rotation.

What does your top five sneakers list look like for 2022? Any way too early predictions for 2023?

Tag: favorites

Personal Favorites: Comfortable and Luxurious Sneakers for Your Feet