By now, you’ve seen the standard “Best Sneakers of 2024” lists. Like most years, the shoes that make the cut are typically limited release and going for above retail on the aftermarket. There’s no doubt the consensus top sneakers of the year so far deserve a place on lists, but what about the sleeper pairs you can still get your hands on for retail or less? We compiled a list of the best sneakers of the year that are still available at a great price.
After one of the most successful signature sneaker runs with Nike, Kyrie Irving took his talents to Chinese brand Anta and had one of the best debuts in recent memory. Anta and Kai had a series of colorways and stories ready to roll out, and the Dallas Maverick’s NBA Finals run created the perfect backdrop for many of the releases. On top of the eye-catching colorways and friendly $125 pricepoint, the KAI 1 delivered on comfort and on-court performance. For my money, it’s the best basketball sneaker for that price range on the market right now. You can find the recent “Green Grails” colorway in most sizes right now at places like Extra Butter.
Air Jordan 1 Low “Metallic Navy”
As one of the original Air Jordan 1 Low colorways from the 19080s, the “Metallic Blue” got the special ’85 cut treatment for its latest retro. A few years ago, paying upwards of $500 for the 2015 pair was your only chance at owning this classic. Now, you can get a higher quality version for significantly below retail at places like Sneaker Politics.
Asics has undoubtedly had some of the best “under-the-radar” collaborations of the last couple of years. This particular one with Woodwood is another one to add to the list. The colorway is perfect for summer, and the shoe is one of the most comfortable in the casual sneaker space. In a time when collaborations dominate the market, it’s a little refreshing to see this pair still widely available for anyone to try.
Sabrina Ionescu was destined to be a Nike signature athlete. After breaking records at the University of Oregon, Sabrina took her talents to the WNBA and delivered one of the best signature sneakers in recent memory. Now, she’s onto her second sneaker, and it gives Kobe vibes in the best possible way. Sabrina’s close relationship with the Bryant family makes her signature line a tribute to his legacy while still standing on its own as a woman’s signature. Just like the Sabrina 1, the 2 is available for retail at a variety of stores like Hibbet Sports.
The “Shadow” colorway may be the most wearable OG Air Jordan 1 colorways. The return of the “Shadow” low version has been one of the most anticipated drops since it leaked. Nike saw the demand and delivered a great retro with plenty of stock. You can grab a pair for retail now at JD Sports.
The New Balance “Made in USA” line has consistently put out great products since Aime Leon Dore Founder Teddy Santis became Creative Director in 2021. This “Sea Salt with black” 993 includes everything sneakerheads have come to love about New Balance: buttery materials, clean color blocking, and comfort. You can grab these for retail directly from New Balance.
Perhaps the most anticipated sneaker release of the entire year, the “Military Blue” made its triumphant return earlier this year. The demand was high, and so was the supply. Jordan Brand didn’t skip a step in improving the shape and overall look of the OG colorway. You can grab a pair for retail at the SoleSavy Store.
What do you get when you combine one of the most popular collaborators in JJJJound with adidas’ hottest sneaker in the Samba? Usually, an instant sell-out. Luckily for you, pairs are still available for retail directly from Undeafted.
The Nike Vomero 5 was one of the hottest sneakers of 2023. Nike recognized that and followed up with plenty of options for 2024. The “Back 9” colorway dropped to celebrate The Masters and can still be had, along with many other colorways, below retail at Nike.
Air Jordan 4 Bred “Reimagined”
This is one of the sneakers that will make any 2024 list. Jordan Brand reimagined the Bred 4 with a leather upper, and fans loved it. While it sold out from retailers immediately, you can still find multiple sizes listed for retail on the COLLECT By SoleSavy app. COLLECT features the industry’s lowest buy/sell trade fees (no fees for members), free digital authentication, in-app messaging, no trade fees, and more. Download for free here.
