Sneakers are one of the most consistent pieces that see collaborations. Whether it’s the show-stopping Dior Jordan’s or Kanye West’s historical work with Nike and Adidas, footwear collaborations are transcendent within fashion. After recently discussing how to spot authentic collaborations, we wanted to highlight the best ongoing sneaker collaborations between global giants and independent designers. So, we selected five collaborations that not only consist of well designed and timeless sneakers but also support boundary-pushing creatives whose creativity have no limits. 

Jordan Brand x Aleali May
Having started working together in 2017, Jordan brand and Aleali May have become a signature staple in the world of sneaker collaborations. Their most recent collaboration; ‘Califia’ saw a new take on the Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT; a green and blue design that featured a high-cut satin collar with a matching swoosh to boot. As a stylist, Aleali May brings her influence not only to sneakers but on an apparel line featuring oversized 90s athletic wear and varsity jackets. The Aleali May x Jordan ‘Califia’ collection releases on Nike SNKRS on April 22.

Vans x Taka Hayashi
If you haven’t heard of Taka Hayashi, you’ve definitely seen his work with Vault By Vans. A former graphic designer for Stüssy, the Japanese creative joined Vans in 2008 before becoming a designer at Vault by Vans. With over 18 collections together, Hayashi offers an expansive collection of revisited Vans’ classic designs. Taka Hayashi dipped into the Vans archive for a Formula One racing-inspired rework of the OG Style 24 LX and OG Style 47 LX. 

adidas x Sean Wotherspoon
Sean Wotherspoon’s take on the Air Max 97 propelled him into stardom, with the sneakers still selling for over £1,000 on resale websites. Since working with adidas however, his designs have become much more abstract, using an abundance of colour and fabrics. As part of their ‘SUPER EARTH’ project, the recent release; the Sean Wotherspoon x adidas ZX 8000, is a trippy patchwork piece. Inspired by 90s British rave culture, the shoe is a 100% plant-based sneaker, made using sustainable practices and resources. 

Converse x Joe FreshGoods
Joe Robinson; known to everyone as Joe FreshGoods is a designer from the West side of Chicago. His recent work with Converse is a 70s style collection that is inspired by “Black culture, soul and art”. Released back in December, the collection saw the newly unveiled Pro Leather with floral embroideries and a suede/velvet mix. The Chuck 70 was given a patchwork re-up that is a nod to the era of disco. Joe FreshGoods also released a F&F Converse design featuring a floral print with the title ’NOT A BOOTLEG’. 

New Balance x Salehe Bembury
The 35-year-old American footwear designer, who previously served as vice president of sneakers and men’s footwear at Versace knows a thing or two about shoes. His ongoing collaborations with New Balance have always pushed the boat creatively. Only a week ago, Bembury took to Instagram to announce his ‘Finders Keepers’ initiative, whereby he hid a number of his New Balance Test Run Project 3.0’s throughout Los Angeles. Dressed in leopard print, with zig-zag straps throughout, the shoe is a cacophony of vibrant colours and patterns.  

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