TREND FORECAST: Best sneakers for Spring 2022

Comfortable, cool, easy. With the start of the Spring and Summer season comes an array of new trends – especially in the sneaker world! Brands are dropping new colorways and silhouettes on a near-monthly basis these days, it’s almost like visiting a candy store. But how to choose the best sneakers for Spring 2022, and how do you style them? The best way to find out is by asking someone who knows everything about sneakers!

I asked for help from the sneaker professionals on Instagram, and they took the time to round up the best sneakers for you. We also had a chat about what it’s like being a woman in the sneaker industry. Let’s hear what Amalie Foss (@amalie_foss) and Kamille Thomsen (@kamillelele) reveal about their love for sneakers! I don’t know about you, but my wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without a few solid pairs of fresh kicks!

Looking for sneakers for Spring 2022? Read further!

What made you fall in love with sneakers initially?

Amalie: “I think I was drawn to the sneaker environment and culture mostly. I feel like sportswear brands have their own kind of unique storytelling and playful universe. They really understand how to create buzz around a product and include various tastemakers, brands, artists, etc. So I experienced feeling super drawn to a product due to the culture surrounding it. And it was a feeling and interest I didn’t get from other fashion categories. It just felt special being a part of it.”

Kamille: “As a kid I really liked skateboarding and street style but never had the confidence to go all in. But sneakers were a subtle way to change the whole appearance and feel of an outfit. And they made me feel just a little cooler than I actually was. You can wear a pretty basic outfit, but if you add a pair of sneaks you can turn it into something really cool.”

First sneaker you remember buying?

A: “The first pair I remember buying was a pair of Nike Dunk Hi Tops when I was like 13 years old. I felt so cool haha. So I love that the Dunk has been back for the past few years. But the pair that really sparked my interest in the culture and led me to collect was the Nike Huarache Triple White in 2014. I found them on eBay and just absolutely loved them.“

K: “Hmm, if we ignore the crazy amounts of Vans and Converse I had when I was younger, the first pair I remember buying, and a pair I was really searching for and saving up for, was a pair of Adidas Superstars I bought in New York in 2015. They were the pair that got me more into street style – before that, I mostly had Converse and Nike running shoes.”

Favorite sneaker right now?

A: “I recently purchased the Ganni x New Balance 2002R and I’ve really been loving them. They feel amazing to wear and are perfect for summer.”

K: “I really love the New Balance 550 White Green. I don’t own a pair, but damn I would love to.”

Favorite pair(s) of all time? If you had to choose!

A: “Oh no. I hate this question haha. Hmm… I’ve been wearing multiple versions of the Yeezy 700’s forever (it feels like). I think that they’ve really managed to stay relevant over a long period of time. Kind of like a new classic? So probably the Yeezy 700 V1, V2, and V3.”

K: “Sh*t, I don’t know! If I had to choose from my own collection it would be the Nike Dunk Syracuse High. The one pair I really really really want and have gushed over for a long time is the Yeezy Boost 700 V1 Wave Runner. I’m not usually a Yeezy fan, but these are *chefs kiss*.“

Most underrated sneaker in your opinion?

A: “The Nike Zoom Fly SP probably. I reach out to them every summer. They never truly exploded, which is obviously kind of nice for a collector, but I never understood why they didn’t get more buzz.” 

K: “In Denmark, they are quite popular but not really a hyped sneaker, but the New Balance 530 is one of my go-to’s. I have two pairs and I am definitely gonna get more. There is a ton of cute colorways and they are super comfortable. They have been my “work shoes” for a long time and I’m not switching them out in the near future.”

A pair of sneakers you will always keep in your rotation?

A: “I don’t think I’ll ever not have a pair of Nike AF1 in my rotation. I don’t wear them as often anymore, but it’s just such a classic. They just need to be there.”

K: “Nike Air Max 97 Silver Bullet – a classic!”

In a Complex article from 2013, Sue Boyle, owner of streetwear and sneaker shop Rime in NYC said: “Girls want the actual product, not the ‘shrink it and pink it’ version” referring to how women are often neglected when it comes to releasing sneakers with inclusive sizing. This article is almost 10 years old – do you feel like this issue is still as prevalent in the culture?

A: “I think the sneaker industry has come such a long way since that article! There have been a lot more cool female figures, debates, and releases. So I think that it’s getting better but there is still a long way to go. I’m lucky, I’m a size 39 so I’m usually included in the men’s sizing range. If I were a 36, it would be a whole other story, and I’d probably be more affected by it.” 

K: “Sadly, yes. Not on the same scale, but it still happens. Often the size range is obviously only with men in mind and I have several experiences with searching for sneakers, for instance, Nike Initiators, where the only available ones in my size were pink or purple, which was not the vibe I was going for. BUT it’s getting better, the issue is being widely worded and women are becoming a huge part of the sneaker culture and community!”

What has your personal experience been as a woman in the sneaker community?

A: “Since I’ve been collecting for a long time, I experienced a lot of non-inclusion in the beginning (circa 2014-2015). I remember shopping with my boyfriend in the States and the staff would show him the men’s area, which had every model and colorway the heart desired. And then they’d show me the women’s section and it was so disappointing. It made it so much harder to collect and it felt so unfair. I honestly haven’t had that problem for a really long time, but I’m also not chasing it as much anymore. I’ve gotten older I think haha.”

K: “It has actually been quite positive. Most people I’ve come in contact with, especially through Instagram, have been supportive and super nice. And in addition to that, I feel like in Denmark women have a huge impact on the fashion and sneaker scene. We are not only included but also a main player in the community.”

Full-proof Spring ‘fit from head to toe?

A: “Probably a pair of Dunks, oversized jeans, a tank top, and an open, oversized shirt. And of course, don’t forget the bling!”

K: “A cute dress and sneakers are always a winner, but for me, a go-to is: bike shorts, an oversized t-shirt, sneakers (preferably dad-shoes or Dunks), and high tennis socks! And then throw on a nice pair of shades and every ring you own!”

What’s your top 3 favorite sneakers for the Spring and Summer season?

A: “Nike Dunks, New Balance 2002R, and Nike Zoom Fly SP (and also the Nike x Sacai Waffle!)”

K: “New Balance 550, Adidas Forum Low, and ASICS Gel Kayano 14. Honestly, every colorway goes for these ones #srynotsry.”

If you’re hooked and want to know more about Amalie, Kamille, and their vast sneaker collections, you can follow them on Instagram right here: @amalie_foss and @kamillelele. More women in the sneaker community? We love to see it!

Whether for work or weekends, playtime, or gym time, these days sneakers are always a fully acceptable choice of footwear. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!