The Top 5 Best Sneakers of 2023 (So Far)

This week we’re bringing you some of the best sneakers which have been released this year, as picked by GQ.

Air Jordan 4 Retro SB Sneakers

Before Nike established an official skateboarding division, skateboarders had a fondness for Air Jordans due to their built-in ankle support, excellent board feel, and unmatched ability to anchor oversized jeans. However, in the early 2000s, a Nike employee named Sandy Bodecker urged the talented individuals in Beaverton to create shoes specifically designed for dedicated skaters, and the rest is history in the sneaker world. The Air Jordan 4 SB pays tribute to the late Bodecker, who sadly passed away in 2018, by incorporating skate-inspired modifications into one of Jordan's most iconic basketball models. As with many previous SB releases, this shoe seamlessly blends style and functionality, whether you spend your weekends executing heel flips on a skateboard or confidently striding through town on your own two feet.

Comme Des Garçons X Nike Terminator Sneakers

Comme des Garçons has mastered the art of sneaker collaborations with their unique approach. They take a timeless silhouette, elevate it with a monochromatic color palette, and finish it off with a logo detail on the back, resulting in yet another successful creation. While the Terminators may not be the most extravagant or groundbreaking shoes on this list, they unquestionably offer a highly desirable interpretation of one of Nike's legendary basketball sneakers.

Nike ACG Watercat Shoes

After close to 20 years languishing in Nike’s archives, the return of the ACG Watercat feels right on time. The freaky aughts-era sneaker pulls inspiration from woven leather sandals, but thanks to its quick-drying uppers and wide footbed, it skews more water shoe than huarache. If you’ve got a raucous poolside bash on the calendar, few sneakers will service you better—and annoy the “old heads” more effectively.

Awake NY X Asics Gel NYC Sneakers

Asics has been making waves lately with their impressive lineup of retro releases, including the vibrant Gel-Kayano 14 and Gel-Nimbus 9. However, their latest success comes in the form of a fresh silhouette called the Gel-NYC, a sneaker that has the potential to solidify the brand's presence in the current cultural landscape. To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Japanese label joined forces with the fashion-savvy New Yorkers at Awake, resulting in a limited-edition duo of Gel-NYC sneakers adorned with intensely saturated colors. While the Gel-NYC has since been released in more subdued color schemes, the teal and pink Awake-exclusive version remains one of the standout offerings to hit the market thus far.

Dime X Merrell Moab 2 Sneakers

Even skateboarders occasionally crave a break from the urban landscape, which sheds light on why the folks at Dime were drawn to Merrell's flagship footwear, aptly named the Mother of All Boots for its exceptional practicality. At first glance, the Moab may seem more suited for setting up camp than performing tricks down a set of stairs. However, the comfortable Vibram sole provides just the right amount of cushioning for various outdoor escapades, whether it's avoiding embarrassing face-plants on asphalt or navigating rugged dirt terrains.