In a world where hype rules all, it’s hard to determine what sneakers are truly slept on. Almost every high profile release sells out instantly, so what qualifies something as a sleeper? For the sake of this list, we are going to include sneakers that don’t have any crazy resell prices and for the most part can still be attained for around retail or less.
10. Nike LeBron x John Elliot Icon
When LeBron James announced he had a footwear collaboration with Los Angeles based designer John Elliott, the sneaker world and side zip hoodie enthusiasts were buzzing with excitement. What came next was a rare instance where the product actually matched the hype. Did they promise they were making the greatest basketball sneaker ever? No, but they did deliver a solid everyday shoe that tastefully blended the two brands together. Often times collaborations fall victim to overdoing it, but this one stuck to John Elliott’s signature script— simple yet stylish high quality basics. Once more colorways dropped and they became widely available, the buzz died down but that doesn’t mean this isn’t arguably LeBron’s best lifestyle silhouette ever. It’s always a win-win when you can get a solid sneaker in multiple colorways for below retail, and that’s exactly what this is right now. — Buy Now
9. Nike SB x Air Jordan I NYC to Paris
It’s no secret that the Nike SB wave is back in full force and last year, Jordan Brand had a series of skateboarding inspired releases that served as somewhat of a preheat of what we are experiencing today. Sure this colorway got overshadowed by the LA to CHI colorway but that doesn’t take away from it being a solid sneaker with a cool color treatment. Whether you planned to customize, skate or just allow them to fade in naturally, this is a solid shoe for the price. Some places still even have them available for retail. — Buy Now
8. adidas Stan Smith (vintage update)
It feels odd putting one of the most iconic sneakers of all-time on a most slept on list but still worth it for those who have been putting off a pair for too long. Not all sneakers look great worn in but the Stan Smith is one of those rare classics that gets better with age. To help speed up the process, adidas jumped on the worn in vintage trend and added some slight yellowing to the outsole on these. It is truly a sneaker you can wear with everything and available for only $80 bucks. — Buy Now
7. Jordan Women’s OG
With brands finally paying more attention to the female sneakerhead community, the Jordan Women’s OG couldn’t have received its first ever retro at a better time. Originally released in the late 1990s, this silhouette was the first of its kind from the Jumpman and was created in celebration of the growing women’s basketball community, including the launch of the WNBA. In early 2020, Jordan Brand brought these back in the OG colorway and while they sold out initially, they are still available for not too much over retail. From the AJ13 vibes to the history packed into them, this shoe is a must for all women sneakerheads. — Buy Now
6. Air Jordan IV Winterized
Jordan Brand has been making winterized retro models for years now but in late 2019, it released what is probably the best version yet. With a clear inspiration from the Eminem Encore Air Jordan IV, this pair gave consumers a chance to cop that look and feel as well as add a practical winter sneaker to their rotation. From the soft fleece lining to the water-resistant materials, this sneaker has fashion and function and can still be copped for retail. — Buy Now
5. Air Force I Gore-Tex
It’s hard to mess up an Air Force I and when you combine the iconic silhouette with a respected brand and tech like Gore-Tex, the results are a simple but clean take on the classic. Originally met with plenty of fanfare, this collection of waterproof AF1s eventually went on sale. The good news is you can still cop now in multiple colorways at a significant discount. — Buy Now
4. Women’s Air Jordan Jordan IV Fossil
From Breds to Black Cats, the last year has been a big one for the Air Jordan IV. Sprinkled in between those two classics was a women’s release that had all genders wanting to cop when it was initially released. Now that the dust has settled, it’s safe to say that the Fossil AJIV is a confirmed sleeper. The good news is if you slept, you can still cop for around retail. — Buy Now
3. New Balance 990v5 “Grey”
The grey New Balance 990 is the quintessential underrated sneaker. The brand has never wavered on its commitment to making ultra high-quality sneakers that stand the test of time. A recent campaign boasted that the 990 is “Worn by Supermodels in London and Dads in Ohio.” It’s no wonder, then, that the sneaker has seen numerous in-demand collaborations. The 990 demands attention for its expert craftsmanship and ability to be fresh while staying under the radar. — Buy Now
2. Nike Blazer Vintage 77
With collaborations from Sacai and Cactus Plant Flea Market, the Nike Blazer had a quietly good 2019. Sneaking in around those high profile releases was a simple yet well-executed series of retro Vintage 77s. Following the trend of vintage-looking kicks, these drops replicate the OG with great materials and a slightly but overly done aged look. On top of that, the $100 price tag and consistent retail availability makes this a definite sleeper. — Buy Now
1. UnderCover x Nike Daybreak
Following the success of the Undercover x Nike React Element 87 and landing during a 1970s Nike runners re-emergence (thanks, Sacai x LD Waffle), the UnderCover x Nike Daybreak had hit written all over it. And although you can still find pairs for a reasonable price, it’s safe to say that this pair was a win for the Swoosh. Those who love it swear by it as a solid everyday shoe and with a couple of colorways to choose from, it’s actually a good thing that these are still attainable. Is it the biggest flex shoe? No. Is it respectable and a comfortable part of a rotation? You bet. — Buy Now
