Spotlight: Premium Sneaks

There is something about sneakers that demands all excesses be forgiven: day-glo colors, clashing patterns, dubious technological advances (inflating air pods?) What's more, Gucci's hookup with Puma proves that even this most (pardon me) pedestrian section of the footwear marketplace is hot stuff.

Herewith, a guide to the season's hottest sneakers, with something (we hope) for every taste:

Want fine tailoring, something suitable to wear with a suit? Try Umbro's new collection by Brit designer Kim Jones (Thrillist)

Love Asiatrash? Hello Kitty Vans (2k words)

Want to glow in the dark? Neon New Balance, available only in Japan (High Snobriety)

Like to save money and/or play b-ball? Stephon Marbury's Starbury is the answer (Manolo's Shoe Blog)

Bit of a slummer? Adidas offers designs by four top gaffiti artistes

Feeling zen? Go minimalist with the Nike Air Force 1 by  Hiroshi Fujiwara

Photo: Getty Images

Comments

[canopy_jones]

Support the Starbury's ($15.00)...down with consumerism.

[feetfrenzy]

The thing about feet...how sexy are sneakers...mens feet (when they are well cared for) are incredible...sensous...how many times have you seen a guy and you just wanted to dive down and lick his feet? Take that sneaker and run your tongue along it?!

[luckybulldog13]

Fuckin ugly shoes!
What the fuck is with this trend in ugly 70's shit!?
It was ugly then and still is!!!
You couldn't pay me to wear any of those ugly sneakers!
Give me a pair of black High Top Chucks that I will put some gel soles in and that is the ONLY pair of sneakers I will wear..not some ugly faggy 70's looking shit!

[George Smith]

With all the talk about cool sneakers, there is now a new, very hot sports flip-flop, called PecheBlu's. They combine a sports shoe base with a flip-flops strap for the best of both worlds. You can see them at www.pecheblu.com -- very comfortable, very cool, and very sporty. Go take a look.