As we kick off 2026, the sneaker landscape is defined by a collision of eras. We are seeing a resurgence of mid-2010s icons, high-heat collaborations from late 2025 settling into the market, and a continued dominance of the “loafer-sneaker” hybrid trend. From the basketball courts to the boardroom-ready slip-ons, this month’s lineup is diverse, hype-driven, and focused on storytelling. Whether you are looking to cop a fresh grail or a daily driver, here are the top 10 trending men’s sneakers to buy in January 2026.
1. Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG 2025 'Chicago'
The iconic “Chicago” colorway returns in a low-top form, bringing back the Varsity Red, Black, and White combination that defines sneaker history. Built with an OG-correct shape and premium leather, this release feels like a clean, faithful remaster of a true classic.
Key Features: The shoe features authentic Chicago color blocking, a slimmer OG silhouette with a higher heel tab, and a full-grain leather upper designed to age naturally over time.
Why It’s Trending: : As one of the most recognizable colorways ever, the Chicago remains a cultural benchmark. This low-top version has become a go-to daily statement for early 2026, offering nostalgia without the heavy vintage treatment.
2. Nike Ja 3 'Mink Brown'
Ja Morant’s third signature model takes a more refined turn with muted brown tones and a lifestyle-friendly look. It balances on-court performance with off-court wearability, making it feel more versatile than previous iterations.
Key Features: Earth-toned suede-like materials give it a premium feel, while a responsive forefoot Zoom Air unit supports explosive movement. The overall design allows an easy transition from basketball court to everyday outfits.
Why It’s Trending: Basketball sneakers are crossing deeper into lifestyle fashion, and this colorway stands out by rejecting loud visuals in favor of earthy, mature tones that align with current menswear trends.
3. New Balance 2002R Protection Pack 'Rain Cloud'
The New Balance 2002R “Rain Cloud” features deconstructed overlays in jagged grey suede, creating an eroded, layered look that’s both modern and nostalgic.
Key Features: A rough-cut suede and mesh upper sits on an N-ERGY sole unit borrowed from performance runners, paired with a neutral grey palette that works effortlessly across seasons.
Why It’s Trending: Its blend of fashion-forward design and all-day comfort continues to resonate, especially as understated, functional sneakers dominate early 2026 wardrobes.
4. Nike Killshot 2 Leather Premium 'Tiempo Pack'
This premium Killshot merges classic court style with football heritage, borrowing design cues from the Tiempo boot. The result is a sleek, retro silhouette with subtle sport influence.
Key Features: Soft leather construction, a fold-over tongue inspired by football cleats, and a signature gum sole come together for a low-profile, vintage finish.
Why It’s Trending: Terrace culture and football-inspired fashion remain strong, and this hybrid design fits perfectly with relaxed denim, oversized knits, and retro jerseys.
5. ASICS Gel Kayano 14 'White Graphite Grey'
A clean execution of early-2000s running design, this Kayano 14 blends technical aesthetics with everyday wearability. Metallic accents and breathable mesh give it a crisp, archival feel.
Key Features: Visible GEL cushioning in the heel and forefoot provides comfort, while the Trusstic system enhances stability without adding bulk. The silver-grey tones keep it versatile.
Why It’s Trending: “Sleek runner” silhouettes have replaced chunky sneakers as daily essentials, and this colorway’s clean balance makes it especially easy to style.
6. New Balance 1906L 'Black'
The 1906L pushes boundaries by combining a penny loafer upper with a running shoe sole. Its all-black finish emphasizes the contrast between formal styling and sporty function.
Key Features: A slip-on loafer construction sits atop a cushioned performance sole, delivering comfort with an unconventional, polished appearance.
Why It’s Trending: As fashion leans into unexpected pairings, this silhouette embodies the “wrong-shoe” trend, sparking conversation and redefining what a sneaker can be.
7. Fragment Design x Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low OG SP 'Sail Military Blue'
This collaboration unites minimalist design with high-profile influence, featuring a sail leather base accented by military blue details and the signature reverse Swoosh.
Key Features: Dual branding from Fragment and Cactus Jack appears on the heel, paired with premium leather and a vintage-inspired color palette.
Why It’s Trending: It represents the peak of collaborative sneaker culture—clean, wearable, and status-driven—making it a standout flex at the start of 2026.
8. Stranger Things x Nike Air Max 1 'Steve Harrington'
Inspired by 1980s Americana, this Air Max 1 references varsity aesthetics and nostalgic textures tied to the character of Steve Harrington.
Key Features: A wear-away upper reveals hidden details over time, complemented by vintage materials like denim and corduroy, plus themed insoles.
Why It’s Trending: As the series reaches its cultural finale, this sneaker feels like a collectible artifact rather than just a collaboration.
9. Ronaldinho x Nike Tiempo Legend SE FG 'Touch of Gold'
A tribute to football’s most iconic era, this Tiempo remaster recalls Ronaldinho’s legendary style with clean white leather and elegant gold detailing.
Key Features: A premium leather upper delivers classic touch, paired with a metallic gold soleplate and fold-over tongue that nods to early-2000s football design.
Why It’s Trending: The revival of “Joga Bonito” nostalgia has made this pair highly desirable among collectors and football-fashion enthusiasts alike.
10. adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 'Carbon Beluga'
The Carbon Beluga offers a darker, more muted take on a familiar silhouette, blending earthy greys with the iconic contrast stripe.
Key Features: Adaptive Primeknit wraps the foot in a sock-like fit, while full-length Boost cushioning ensures lasting comfort for everyday wear.
Why It’s Trending: Despite shifting trends, the 350 V2 remains a reliable modern classic, especially in darker tones suited for seasonal rotation.
Conclusion
January 2026 sets the tone for a new year in sneakers—where heritage meets innovation and comfort is just as important as style. From timeless low-top icons to technical runners and boundary-pushing collaborations, this month’s lineup proves that modern menswear is all about balance. Whether you’re refining your daily rotation or adding a statement pair to start the year strong, these selections reflect a season defined by versatility, craftsmanship, and cultural relevance. Shop at Novelship to secure your pair before they sell out!
FAQ's
January 2026 is defined by clean retro silhouettes and refined performance sneakers. Low-top classics, Y2K runners, and hybrid designs that blur the line between sport and lifestyle are leading the trend.
Yes. Iconic colorways like “Chicago” and classic neutrals remain highly relevant, especially when paired with updated materials or modern proportions. Nostalgia continues to drive demand, but wearability is key.
Yes. Models like the Nike Ja 3 ‘Mink Brown’ are designed to transition seamlessly from the court to the street, especially with muted colorways that align with current fashion trends.
The New Balance 2002R Protection Pack ‘Rain Cloud’ and ASICS Gel Kayano 14 ‘White Graphite Grey’ are top-tier for comfort. Both feature advanced cushioning systems and breathable materials designed for long hours on foot.
Novelship has a team of experts who carefully inspect and authenticate each item before it is shipped out to the buyer. Novelship used a combination of industry knowledge, detailed checks, and advanced technology to verify the authenticity of products. Check out the authentication process.
You can find them in our promo codes page.