Not Sambas, Not Stan Smiths—These 8 Designer Sneakers Are Poised to Go Viral in 2026

      Alright, I confess: until recently, I didn't own many pairs of sneakers. For years, a single pair of white Converse sufficed for my casual jeans looks, but it was one specific pair (the Stan Smiths from the initial release of the Adidas X Gucci collaboration, to be exact) that transformed my perspective. No longer just gym or airport attire, I started to view statement sneakers as standalone highlights. Logos! Colors! Prints! Detailing! Just as my numerous pairs of heels complemented any outfit, so too could the right designer sneakers.

      Don't misunderstand me: this isn't an attempt to persuade you to spend excessively on items that could typically cost half as much, but I believe there's value in the meticulous craftsmanship behind designer sneakers. While some of the most buzzed-about styles in recent years have returned to simpler designs—take the Adidas Samba as an example—it’s the shoes that truly excite the fashion community that offer something more. There’s a reason your social media feed is suddenly filled with Vibram Five Fingers and Isabel Marant Becketts.

      In search of sneakers that are comfortable, versatile, and trend-forward, I began exploring designer collaborations and luxury launches to find styles that hit all the marks. From Gucci to Miu Miu, and Maison Margiela to Loewe, it’s obvious that designer sneakers are more popular than ever, as brands aim to create styles that can replace your everyday Nikes rather than collect dust in a box. Curious which designer sneakers will be leading the charge in 2026? Whether you favor sleek silhouettes, gorpcore toggles and zips, athletic runners, or stylish sneakerinas, there’s something on this list for you. As temperatures rise and a sunny summer approaches, expect to see these sneakers paired with everything from jorts to romantic dresses, moving beyond just sandals. Ready to explore? Keep scrolling to discover and shop the trendiest designer It sneakers available this summer.

      1. **MM6 X Salomon**

       - Style Notes: If you missed Maison Margiela's Tabi-toe sneaker collaboration with Reebok a few years back, don’t worry. The diffusion line MM6 has partnered with the popular brand Salomon to create a sporty hybrid that’s already trending on Instagram. If you appreciate classic Salomons, you'll likely enjoy these, which perform well both on hikes and the high street.

      2. **Loewe X On CloudTilt Hi**

       - Style Notes: Returning after a successful run, Loewe has collaborated with activewear label On for another version of the Cloudtilt, now styled as a high-top. Performance sneakers don’t get more stylish, and while you might typically see these in the gym rather than paired with a summer dress, the Loewe logo undeniably gives them a "fashion insider" vibe.

      3. **Jil Sander X Puma K-Street Sneaker**

       - Style Notes: The Jil Sander X Puma collaboration released earlier this year has been warmly welcomed by sneaker enthusiasts and the fashion crowd alike. The brand's elements like minimalist design, sleek shapes, and high-quality materials are all present, with Simone Bellotti’s take on casual style shining through in this chic sneaker.

      4. **Dior Couer Trainer**

       - Style Notes: You may have overlooked Dior's Cœur trainer, as it didn’t have a major launch announcement, but I suspect this pretty pair will make waves on the street-style scene during fashion month. Elegant, refined, and adorned with a spring-like floral pattern, these trainers are ideal for pairing with full skirts and flowing dresses when you wish to swap out your flip-flops.

      5. **Nike X Jacquemus Moon Shoe**

       - Style Notes: Following the quick sell-out of the first drop (and now only found at resale for significantly inflated prices), the second release of the Jacquemus X Nike Moon Shoe came with a long waiting list. Those lucky enough to snag these retro runners were among the first to show off the form-fitted silhouette now trending on the high street. A few sizes remain, but they won’t last long.

      6. **Dolce & Gabbana X Diadora**

       - Style Notes: Introducing a designer collaboration so new it’s only available for pre-order: Dolce & Gabbana X Diadora. Diadora has recently been making waves, and its latest project features a striking line of leopard-print sneakers and football cleats designed to make a statement.

      7. **Cecilie Bahsen X ASICS**

       - Style Notes: It's a significant year for fans of Cecilie Bahnsen. After successful collaborations with Uniqlo and The North Face, her second partnership with Asics brings us a Gel-Quantum 360 trainer—an ultra-feminine spin on the brand’s most popular style. After spotting them on the runway and on Copenhagen's best-dressed, I believe the ideal way to wear these is with a voluminous Cecilie Bahnsen