Kanye West has dominated sneaker culture thanks to his unorthodox use of materials, designs, and colorways. This year saw some of those most inventive ideas come to life alongside the return of some staple pieces that have solidified Yeezy as one of the top collaborators in the footwear game. Check out the best Yeezys to release thus far in 2021.
adidas Yeezy 450 Dark Slate
After being teased by Kanye West himself during Paris Fashion Week back in March, the first Yeezy 450 colorway released shortly after. The unique shape of the sneaker caused a lot of conversation and made it an instant sell-out when it finally dropped. A few months later, a Dark Slate version was delivered, giving a new all-black look to the shoe. The Yeezy 450 Dark Slate features a monochromatic design with a Primeknit upper, a sock-like collar for a comfortable fit, and a one-piece ribcage sole unit. If you’re looking to add a sneaker that stands out, pick up the Yeezy 450 Dark Slate on StockX.
adidas Yeezy 700 Wash Orange
What makes the Yeezy 700 Wash Orange one of our favorites of the year is its resemblance to one of Ye’s most classic sneakers to date. Kanye West and adidas capitalized on the dad-shoe craze of 2017 by releasing the first Yeezy 700 colorway, the Waverunner. But for those that couldn’t snag a pair back then or missed the numerous restocks over the years (we’re not judging), the Wash Orange is a great consolation. The Yeezy 700 Wash Orange is similar in color to the classic Waverunner, displaying a grey leather and mesh upper, with hints of teal around the toe. Its vibrant Wash Orange midsole offers a brighter take on the popular 2017 Waverunner colorway.
adidas Yeezy Foam RNNR MX Cream Clay
When talking about innovative designs, one has to mention the Foam RNNR, not just for the Yeezy brand but for footwear in general. The release of the shoe sparked a larger conversation on the sneaker industry’s role in creating environmentally friendly footwear, as the Foam RNNR is the first of its kind to be constructed with algae. Since its first release in 2020, the Foam RNNR has seen a major haul of releases in various colorways, like this year’s MX Cream Clay. This Yeezy Foam RNNR uses a mix of brown, cream, and clay colors to create a swirl effect that evokes chocolate and vanilla ice cream. But outside of its color, what makes this pair one of our favorites is that it is the first Foam RNNR to release in full family sizing. Now, even the little ones can enjoy the same comforts as their parents and take part in wearing greener kicks.
adidas Yeezy Slide Pure
The Yeezy Slide is the answer to all of your loungewear needs. The Yeezy Slide Pure is made entirely of EVA foam, making it comfortable from your heels to your toes. Ridged soles provide further comfort with every step while providing traction to the slip-on. When it comes to comfort, the Yeezy Slide reigns supreme.
adidas Yeezy 700 V2 Cream
The updated V2 version of the Yeezy 700, which includes more mesh and reflective accents on the upper, has delivered some notable colorways that have risen in price on the secondary market. The first colorway of the silhouette to release in 2018, Static, has already reached 223% above its retail price, making it pretty costly for the average Yeezy fan. But this year’s Yeezy 700 V2 Cream is one of our favorites to release this year because it gives fans a second chance at getting a Static-esque colorway at a fraction of the price.
adidas Yeezy 350 V2 Mono Clay
The Yeezy 350 V2 Mono Clay offers a new spin to the 350 V2 family with the addition of a monofilament mesh on the upper. Released back in July, the Yeezy 350 V2 Mono Clay brings a bright hue to the new mesh material. For those that are fans of the 350 V2 but want something a little different than the classic Primeknit upper, look to snag a pair of these to add to your collection.
