The Hottest Footwear Launches This January 2026: Top Picks from Global Brands
Global Footwear Launches – January 2026
January 2026 opens the year with one of the most diverse global footwear release calendars in recent memory. From performance-driven running shoes and basketball silhouettes to luxury collaborations and lifestyle essentials, brands are launching innovations across every category. This curated list highlights the top 50 confirmed and reputable pre-release footwear launches in January 2026,
Nike Book Two Signature Release
Nike expands Devin Booker’s signature line with the Book Two, delivering a streamlined basketball silhouette that blends court performance with everyday wearability. The January 2026 launch focuses on improved heel containment, responsive foam cushioning, and a lighter upper structure aimed at quicker transitions. Positioned for both athletes and lifestyle consumers, Book Two continues Nike’s strategy of bridging performance credibility with street-ready aesthetics.
Nike Mind 001
Nike introduces the Mind 001 as its most experimental lifestyle sneaker to date, integrating sensory-feedback foam pods designed to enhance foot awareness during movement. Developed through Nike’s innovation labs, this January 2026 release targets consumers seeking comfort-driven design with futuristic aesthetics. The minimalist slip-on structure and muted color palette position the Mind 001 as a flagship model in Nike’s next-generation comfort category
Adidas Fear Of God Athletics 2.5
Jerry Lorenzo’s partnership with adidas continues with the Athletics 2.5, refining the balance between elite performance and luxury minimalism. Launching in January 2026, the silhouette introduces upgraded Lightstrike cushioning and a reinforced textile upper designed for multi-sport versatility. The neutral color story and premium construction make the Athletics 2.5 equally relevant in training environments and contemporary fashion spaces.
Adidas CLOT BAPE Superstar
Three cultural giants unite as adidas, CLOT, and BAPE collaborate on a limited Superstar release. Dropping January 2026, the shoe blends heritage shell-toe design with bold camouflage overlays and Eastern-inspired detailing. Positioned as a collector’s item, this release targets sneaker enthusiasts who value storytelling and cross-cultural design, reaffirming adidas’ leadership in high-impact collaboration strategies.
Converse Shai 001
Converse debuts Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s first signature model with the Shai 001, blending sleek aesthetics with functional on-court technology. Launching January 2026, the shoe features a low-profile midsole for enhanced court feel and a sculpted heel counter for stability. Designed for modern guards, the Shai 001 strengthens Converse Basketball’s growing presence in elite performance footwear.
New Balance 1906L
New Balance refreshes its technical heritage with the 1906L, a lifestyle reinterpretation of its iconic running archive. Releasing January 2026, the model introduces refined mesh layering, updated cushioning, and premium suede accents. The 1906L appeals to consumers who value archival authenticity paired with contemporary comfort, reinforcing New Balance’s leadership in heritage-driven design storytelling.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp X
Designed for elite distance runners, the FuelCell SuperComp X arrives in January 2026 with a carbon-fiber plate and ultra-responsive midsole geometry. The model emphasizes energy return and race-day efficiency, positioning it as New Balance’s flagship marathon shoe for the new season. Lightweight materials and aerodynamic shaping ensure performance credibility while reinforcing the brand’s expanding role in professional road running.
ASICS GEL NYC 2.0
ASICS modernizes its urban-running aesthetic with the GEL-NYC 2.0, launching January 2026. The updated silhouette blends streetwear appeal with heritage GEL cushioning technology, delivering all-day comfort for city lifestyles. Designed to bridge sport and casual wear, the GEL-NYC 2.0 targets a younger audience seeking authentic athletic roots paired with contemporary design language.
ASICS Issey Miyake Hyper Taping
ASICS partners again with Issey Miyake Design Studio for the Hyper Taping sneaker, debuting January 2026. Featuring bold wrap-around structural lines and engineered mesh, the model blurs the boundary between footwear and wearable art. This release highlights ASICS’ growing presence in high-fashion collaborations while maintaining biomechanical performance at its core.
Puma LaMelo MB Zero Four
Puma expands LaMelo Ball’s signature line with the MB.04, introducing enhanced traction geometry and a refined Nitro Foam midsole. Launching January 2026, the shoe emphasizes explosive responsiveness and bold visual storytelling, staying true to LaMelo’s expressive on-court identity. The MB.04 continues Puma Basketball’s momentum in the global performance market.
Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite Two
Built for competitive racing, the Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 debuts in January 2026 with a redesigned dual-density midsole for improved propulsion efficiency. Carbon-infused support structures help optimize stride mechanics, while the ultra-light upper targets elite marathon runners. The model strengthens Puma’s serious push into professional road-running footwear.
HOKA Kaha Three GTX Boot
The Kaha 3 GTX boot brings HOKA’s signature cushioning into rugged outdoor territory. Launching January 2026, the model features a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane, Vibram Megagrip outsole, and enhanced ankle support. Designed for long-distance hikers and adventure travelers, the Kaha 3 blends trail durability with unmatched comfort for extended wear.
Salomon XT-Quest Pro Two
Salomon expands its trail heritage with the XT-Quest Pro 2, launching January 2026. Designed for rugged terrain, the shoe features an advanced Contagrip outsole, reinforced toe protection, and responsive EnergyCell cushioning. Built for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers, the XT-Quest Pro 2 strengthens Salomon’s leadership in performance trail and hiking footwear worldwide.
Salomon RX Slide Three
The Salomon RX Slide 3 targets post-activity recovery with lightweight cushioning and breathable construction. Releasing January 2026, the slide features an EVA midsole engineered to reduce foot fatigue after long runs or hikes. Designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, the RX Slide 3 bridges performance recovery needs with casual everyday comfort.
Birkenstock Boston Shearling Renew
Birkenstock refreshes its iconic Boston clog with the Shearling Renew edition, launching January 2026. Featuring recycled felt uppers and plush shearling lining, the model targets winter comfort and indoor-outdoor versatility. The contoured cork footbed ensures long-lasting support, reinforcing Birkenstock’s reputation for ergonomic design while aligning with the brand’s sustainability-driven product development strategy.
Brooks Ghost Sixteen Max
Brooks expands its best-selling Ghost franchise with the Ghost 16 Max, delivering enhanced cushioning and a wider platform for long-distance comfort. Launching January 2026, the shoe introduces DNA Loft v4 foam for smoother transitions and reduced impact stress. Designed for neutral runners, the Ghost 16 Max strengthens Brooks’ leadership in everyday performance running footwear.
Clarks Wallabee Evo Craft
Clarks modernizes its legendary Wallabee silhouette with the Evo Craft edition, launching January 2026. Featuring premium suede uppers and a lightweight EVA-enhanced crepe sole, the shoe blends heritage styling with contemporary comfort upgrades. Designed for urban professionals and casual wearers, the Wallabee Evo Craft reinforces Clarks’ ability to refresh classic footwear for modern lifestyles.
Crocs Echo Storm Clog
Crocs introduces the Echo Storm Clog as a bold expansion of its lifestyle clog range. Launching January 2026, the model features an exaggerated sculpted sole, lightweight Croslite construction, and improved ventilation zones. Designed for trend-driven consumers, the Echo Storm continues Crocs’ evolution from comfort brand to fashion-forward footwear innovator.
ECCO Biom C Trail Advance
ECCO expands its BIOM line with the C Trail Advance, designed for natural movement and off-road stability. Launching January 2026, the shoe features anatomical last construction, responsive cushioning, and durable rubber traction. Built for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the BIOM C Trail Advance strengthens ECCO’s presence in premium comfort-driven outdoor footwear.
ECCO Soft Seven Urban Knit
The ECCO Soft 7 Urban Knit introduces breathable comfort to everyday footwear. Releasing January 2026, the model features a flexible knit upper combined with a lightweight PU sole for all-day wear. Designed for commuters and casual users, the Soft 7 Urban Knit reinforces ECCO’s focus on ergonomic design and understated Scandinavian aesthetics.
FILA Grant Hill Three Retro
FILA revives basketball heritage with the Grant Hill 3 Retro, launching January 2026. Featuring bold 1990s-inspired paneling and upgraded cushioning, the shoe targets nostalgia-driven sneaker fans. This reissue strengthens FILA’s continued strategy of leveraging iconic athlete partnerships to reconnect with basketball culture across new generations of consumers.
FILA Disruptor Evo Two
The FILA Disruptor Evo 2 updates the brand’s chunky sneaker icon with refined proportions and lighter materials. Releasing January 2026, the model features a streamlined midsole and breathable mesh upper. Designed for fashion-forward consumers, the Disruptor Evo 2 maintains bold aesthetic appeal while improving everyday comfort.
Jordan Brand Air Jordan Nine Flint
Jordan Brand brings back a fan-favorite with the Air Jordan 9 “Flint,” launching January 2026. Featuring premium nubuck panels and signature holographic detailing, the shoe celebrates classic Jordan heritage. Designed for collectors and lifestyle wearers alike, this reissue reinforces the enduring cultural impact of the Air Jordan franchise in global sneaker markets.
Jordan Brand Air Jordan Four Flight
The Air Jordan 4 “Flight” arrives in January 2026 with refreshed color blocking and premium materials. Celebrating one of the most iconic silhouettes in sneaker history, the release targets collectors and modern sneaker enthusiasts. With its timeless design and cultural relevance, the Air Jordan 4 continues to anchor Jordan Brand’s retro performance-lifestyle strategy.
Merrell Moab Speed Two GTX
Merrell enhances trail performance with the Moab Speed 2 GTX, launching January 2026. Featuring waterproof GORE-TEX protection, Vibram traction, and lightweight cushioning, the shoe is built for fast-paced hiking and outdoor exploration. Designed for adventure travelers, the Moab Speed 2 GTX reinforces Merrell’s reputation for dependable outdoor footwear innovation.
Merrell Hydro Moc Trek
The Merrell Hydro Moc Trek evolves the brand’s popular slip-on with rugged outdoor styling. Launching January 2026, the model features a water-friendly EVA shell, enhanced outsole grip, and breathable design. Positioned for camping, travel, and casual wear, the Hydro Moc Trek blends utility with everyday comfort.
On Running Cloudsurfer Two
On updates its smooth-ride platform with the Cloudsurfer 2, debuting January 2026. Featuring CloudTec Phase cushioning for seamless transitions, the shoe delivers a softer, more fluid running experience. Designed for daily trainers, the Cloudsurfer 2 reinforces On’s focus on engineering-led comfort while expanding its appeal to mainstream runners.
On Running Cloudnova Travel
The On Cloudnova Travel introduces lightweight versatility for commuters and frequent travelers. Launching January 2026, the shoe features collapsible heel construction, breathable materials, and minimalist cushioning. Designed for mobility and style, the Cloudnova Travel bridges On’s performance heritage with everyday lifestyle footwear needs.
Saucony Endorphin Pro Four
Saucony elevates race-day performance with the Endorphin Pro 4, launching January 2026. Featuring an updated carbon-fiber plate and PWRRUN HG cushioning, the shoe delivers enhanced propulsion efficiency. Designed for competitive runners, the Endorphin Pro 4 strengthens Saucony’s position in elite marathon footwear while continuing its innovation-led approach to performance design.
Saucony Triumph Twenty Three
The Saucony Triumph 23 arrives in January 2026 as a premium cushioned trainer for long-distance comfort. Featuring expanded PWRRUN+ foam and a refined upper fit system, the shoe targets runners seeking plush ride quality for daily mileage. The Triumph 23 reinforces Saucony’s strength in dependable performance footwear for serious athletes.
UGG Neumel Flex Urban
UGG updates its popular Neumel boot with the Flex Urban edition, launching January 2026. Featuring lighter construction and improved sole flexibility, the model maintains signature warmth while enhancing everyday comfort. Designed for urban users, the Neumel Flex Urban modernizes UGG’s winter footwear heritage for contemporary lifestyles.
UGG Tasman Tech Slide
The UGG Tasman Tech Slide introduces hands-free comfort with upgraded cushioning and breathable lining. Launching January 2026, the slide blends indoor comfort with outdoor usability. Positioned for relaxed lifestyles, the Tasman Tech Slide expands UGG’s presence in modern comfort-driven casual footwear categories.
Wolverine 1000 Mile Flex Boot
Wolverine modernizes its iconic 1000 Mile Boot with the Flex edition, debuting January 2026. Featuring softer leather uppers and a lightweight sole unit, the boot preserves heritage craftsmanship while improving daily wear comfort. Designed for professionals and lifestyle users alike, the 1000 Mile Flex Boot blends tradition with contemporary functionality.
Wolverine Durashock Trail Low
The Wolverine Durashock Trail Low arrives in January 2026 as a versatile outdoor-inspired casual shoe. Featuring shock-absorbing midsoles and durable rubber traction, the model targets urban explorers and light-hiking enthusiasts. Designed for comfort-driven performance, the Durashock Trail Low reinforces Wolverine’s commitment to functional, everyday footwear solutions.
Final Thoughts
January 2026 showcases the footwear industry’s strongest start in years, blending performance innovation, cultural storytelling, and category expansion. From elite racing shoes and signature basketball lines to fashion-driven collaborations and outdoor boots, these launches reflect how brands are evolving to meet diverse consumer expectations. With strict brand representation and global balance, this curated list captures the true pulse of the footwear market as it steps into 2026.
