These 6 Sneaker Trends Are Already Shaping 2024

You know what they say—new year, new shoes (well, that’s what I say, at least). If one of your resolutions is to embrace your inner sneakerhead, I’ve got you covered with the best 2024 sneaker trends to look forward to come January. From the spring/summer 2024 runways to the streets of New York City and beyond, I’ve been observing the hottest must-have styles and silhouettes that will be everywhere next year.

You’ll find plenty of fresh kicks to start 2024 off right, but don’t discount your current favorites. In addition to the new silhouettes joining the market, some epic styles from 2023 are still going strong. Read up on the only cool sneakers you need in your closet and, while I have you, be sure to check out ELLE.com’s other favorite 2024 shoe trends, too.

Scroll on for my breakdown of the six most exciting sneaker trends to watch for in the next 12 months—and, of course, happy shopping.

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Unexpected Textures

The days of boring footwear are over, so let me introduce you to the textured sneaker trend. Shearling, calf hair, knitted textiles, embellishments, and more are taking the streets in the most exciting way. The softness and warmth you love inside your shoes have now ventured outside, and I personally couldn’t be happier. Acne Studios, Junya Watanabe, and Flower Mountain are great places to start embracing 2024’s comfiest trend.

Pops of Pink

In 2024, we wear (more) pink! If you thought the year of Barbie was over, think again—as the fashion industry is still mesmerized by this playful hue. Try it out with your classic staples, like Converse Chucks and Adidas Sambas or Gazelles, or get your hands on a new designer collab to bring a pop of color to your toes. Pink sneakers are a great way to add some brightness to your wardrobe, even in the winter. And yes, pink can be a neutral too!

The Great Outdoors

Whether you know it as “gorp-core,” the “quiet outdoors,” or even a version of athleisure, Hiking-inspired sneakers have gained popularity through their technical details and comfortable designs built for adventure. And now, they’re hotter than ever. Whether you’re braving the great outdoors or slipping them on with your office attire, the outdoors aesthetic and high fashion now go hand in hand. A bonus? You can count on them for extra support and traction, whatever the weather.

Heavy Metals

Does this trend look familiar? Metallics are here to stay, come 2024. At this point, all of your favorite brands have churned out metallic styles, making it easier than ever to add this trend to your sneaker rotation. Silver is undoubtedly the front-runner, but don’t forget to look out for colorful metallics in your search. You can count on this flashy trend to elevate any outfit, and I love the contrast of shiny materials in athletic silhouettes.

Distressed Details

Pristine sneakers? A thing of the past. Roughed-up trainers will be all the rage this year, which is the perfect juxtaposition to quiet luxury and tailored dressing. If they carry the illusion of being dirty, have frayed textile details, or look like they were pre-worn in any sense, then they’re the sneakers for you! The best part? No need to stress over a tiny stain or crease post-purchase.

Ballet and Bougie

2023’s biggest shoe revival—and perhaps one of the biggest fashion trends of the year, balletcore—has become the next new sneaker silhouette. Take your ballet flat collection to the next level with sneaker-like support and maybe even a little extra height. This spring 2024 shoe trend features sneakers disguised as ballet flats so you can be as stealthy with your wardrobe choices as you are stylish. Want to be even trendier? Opt for a pink or metallic pair.