As the summer comes to an end, the excitement and anxieties of starting a new school year will naturally start creeping up. Between courses, relationships, and grades, there will always be something top of mind. And despite there being both highs and lows to every academic year, the last thing you want to worry about is your fit. With these selections of high- and low-top kicks from brands like Jordan, Nike, and more, you can’t help but put your best foot forward with any challenges that come your way this year.
New Balance 550 Aimé Leon Dore White Green
Similar to the Nike Dunk Low, the New Balance 550 is experiencing one of the biggest resurgences in sneaker history, thanks to designer and Aimé Leon Dore founder Teddy Santis. Ever since ALD got their hands on the 1989 basketball sneaker from New Balance, it sparked a retro 1980s basketball movement in the new decade. The first set of ALD New Balance 550s were the match that lit the flame, debuting in White Navy, White Red, White Grey, and this White Green iteration. Currently, there are nine ALD 550s, but the New Balance 550 Aimé Leon Dore White Green is one of the more popular pairs from the pack. These 550s feature an aged look to its leather honing in on the classic look of an original pair from the 1980s. White and green full-grain leather is added throughout the upper providing a plush feel t the sneaker. Ortholite insoles bring in next-level comfort to your feet that will support you all day, both in and out of school.
Nike Dunk High Australia
Nike Dunks are having an undeniably momentous run right now, and they will most certainly be some of the more talked about sneakers in school. So if you want to stay on trend while rocking the latest heat, the Nike Dunk High Australia is a great fit for you. This pair comes in a familiar colorway, similar to 2020’s Nike Dunk High Spartan. What differentiates the two are hits of yellow on the heel tab and tongue tag, drawing inspiration from Australia’s national football team. Its smooth green and white leather upper provides an autumnal tone that is just right for the fall.
Salomon XT-4 White Lunar Rock Night Sky
Despite being a woodland addition to any hike or trail run, the Salomon XT-4 is equally suitable for the terrain of the school. The Salomon XT-4 White Lunar Rock Night Sky packs a ton of tech within its pediatric package, such as QuickLace lace system, traction Contagrip outsole, Ortholite insole, and anti-debris mesh uppers. These Salomons have everything you’re looking for in a shoe, from durability to comfort. Not to mention, they’re also one of the top trending sneakers on the market, making them perfect for back-to-school fits.
Air Jordan 1 High Yellow Toe
The Air Jordan 1 High Yellow Toe hasn’t even dropped yet and is easily one of the more anticipated releases of the year, so it would be a great sneaker to rock on your first day back. This Air Jordan 1 follows a familiar and popular colorblocking technique like the Bred Toe and Court Purple. And what usually comes with these types of Jordan 1 colorways are some of the best quality leathers ever found on the high-top sneaker. The Air Jordan 1 High Yellow Toe is equipped with soft tumbled and smooth leathers throughout. Yellow leathers on the toe and heel, and collar of the shoe bring a pop of color that also matches the colors of the upcoming fall season.
Reebok NPC II JJJJound (Any Variation)
For those looking for a sneaker that pairs both practicality and hype, then look no further than the Reebok NPC II JJJJound. After dropping hits like their Club Cs and Classic Nylons, Reebok and JJJJound joined forces yet again, retroing another 1980s classic, the Reebok NPC II. The sneaker, as with all of JJJJound’s collaborations, is dressed in monochromatic fashion, with this pair featuring all white uppers, sole, and lining. But what sets this release apart from the others is its release mechanic. The all-white design of this Reebok NPC II is offered in nine different variations, with each variation randomly sent to buyers. Each sneaker follows the same premise but is made with different shades of white leather uppers, liners, and even different outsole traction patterns. Randomness aside, the NPC II is a great everyday sneaker that will surely look great both new and worn-in, making them great for every part of your school year.
Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star 70 Hi Stüssy Black
The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star 70 is one of those sneakers that will never go out of style. And when you pair it with one of streetwear’s most revered brands to exist, Stüssy, you’re sure to have a certified classic that’s a great addition to your first-day look. The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star 70 Hi Stüssy Black is made with all of the things you’ve come to love about the signature sneaker, black canvas uppers, white and black midsole, and cushioned footbed. An added twist to this pair is the Stüssy-designed Star logo on the lateral side of the shoe and Stüssy-esq font on the tongue tags. Though these details may be minor, they’re just the thing for those looking for a basic sneaker that brings a bit of an x-factor.
