The five pairs our team can’t stop talking about
Originally launched in 2014, the Gel-Cumulus 16 runner ($200) is known for its smooth cushioning and breathability.
Published
August 19, 2026
Published
August 19, 2026
Photography
Courtesy
Note
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When’s the last time you bought yourself some shoes? Let this be your sign that it’s time. There are so many great styles dropping these days, we thought we would pull a few of our current favorites to showcase. From a pair of ruggedly handsome chukkas to some Spanish low-profile sneakers and a Brazilian/Japanese collab, these are the kicks our team can’t stop talking about.
LUCA takes the easygoing shape of a desert boot, adds a subtle moc toe and plants the whole thing on a chunky lug sole that can actually deal with all sorts of conditions. The smooth suede keeps them from feeling overly rugged, while the gum sole gives the silhouette some welcome heft. Wear them with faded jeans, cords or fuller chinos once temperatures drop. Handmade in Portugal, they’re substantial without feeling clunky—the kind of boots that make a simple fall outfit look considerably more thought-out.
Moc Toe Chukka Lug Sole Boot,
Do you know Carnan? Founded in 2018, it’s been blowing up into one of the biggest names in Brazilian streetwear. And they’ve reunited with ASICS for a second spin on the Gel-Cumulus 16, dressing the retro runner in a deep, muted purple over the black base and outsole carried over from their first collaboration. Green accents add an unexpected hit of color, while a brown insole nods back to the partnership’s roots. There’s a lot of symbolism packed in there, sure, but you don’t need the backstory to appreciate the result. It’s moody, distinctive and considerably easier to wear than another pair of silver runners. But they might be hard to track down, dropping globally today via select retailers.
Carnan x Asics Gel-Cumulus 16 runner sneaker,
Docs, minus the laces. The San Mule takes the brand’s famously tough footwear and turns it into something you can literally step into and go. A streamlined leather upper, center seam and chunky air-cushioned sole give it some unmistakable ’90s energy, but the backless shape keeps things relaxed. Wear them with wide trousers, fatigues or shorts, of course. It’s part clog, part loafer and just weird enough to make an otherwise straightforward outfit look a whole lot more interesting.
Dr. Martens San mule,
Is this the newest skinny shoe? Spanish label Pompeii’s Mido has the long, low profile that’s quickly replacing chunkier sneakers, with vintage detailing and a distinctly European feel. It’s sleek without looking delicate and just unusual enough to stand apart from the Sambas currently occupying every other pair of feet. If you’ve been looking for an everyday sneaker that feels familiar but not completely played out, this might be it.
Mido Trainer,
Sperry takes its legnedary warm-weather icon and gives it a beefy lug sole, transforming a prep staple into something you can keep wearing well after shorts season. You still get the familiar moc stitching and 360-degree lacing, but the rugged outsole adds traction and considerably more presence. And that dark red leather? Even better once it starts picking up some wear. Try them with cords, relaxed denim or chinos and suddenly the boat shoe doesn’t feel quite so seasonal.
Authentic Original boat shoe,
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