Overview
- Nordstrom’s Linda Cui Zhang characterizes the season’s mood as “easy elevated,” with polished, comfortable pairs replacing last year’s minimalist neutrals.
- Ballet‑influenced, low‑profile “sneakerinas” evolve in satin and nylon for a lighter, streamlined look highlighted on runways and in street style.
- Richer palettes, cool pastels and a pronounced surge in silver and other metallic finishes add personality through color and texture.
- Slim early‑2000s sport runners resurface, with Puma’s revival—including the H‑Street relaunch and celebrity‑favored Speedcat—flagged by retailers and editors.
- Chunkier retro performance trainers remain everyday staples, with Asics, Salomon and New Balance staying strong as Who What Wear spotlights 11 key brands for 2026, including Adidas, Puma, Nike, On, Miu Miu, Isabel Marant and Veja.