The five pairs our team can’t stop talking about
New Balance’s subtle nod to Steve Jobs is downright badass.
Published
October 8, 2026
Published
October 8, 2026
Photography
Courtesy
Note
Items featured in this story are independently selected by the editorial team. Purchasing via our links may earn Valet. a portion of the sale, which helps fund our editorial mission.
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 legendary New Balances to some textured derby boot hybrids, these are the kicks our team can’t stop talking about.
Grey New Balances don’t get much more definitive than this. Originally introduced in 2006, the 992 has returned to the Made in USA lineup in its quintessential grey suede-and-mesh combination. Underfoot, ABZORB cushioning at the heel and forefoot keeps them comfortable enough for an entire day on your feet, while the layered, slightly chunky silhouette still looks remarkably current. They may not be the flashiest sneakers in the closet, but that’s precisely why you’ll wear them constantly.
Made in USA 992 Core sneaker,
A camp moc is ready for city life. Palomo 1953 takes that old-school, outdoorsy moccasin shape and gives it just enough refinement to work well beyond the cabin. The handsewn-inspired construction and substantial leather keep the rugged character intact, but the low profile makes these an easy alternative to loafers or boat shoes. Wear them with thick socks and cords through fall, then bring them back out with chinos once spring arrives. They’re unfussy, slightly nostalgic and will look even better with a few months of wear on them.
Palomo 1953 Baxter Camp Moc,
Docs’ popular loafer gets reworked for the fall. The Mayfare takes Dr. Martens’ unmistakable attitude and applies it to a sharper, lower-profile penny loafer. You still get the brand’s high-shine polished smooth leather, moc toe and Goodyear-welted construction, but the chunky proportions have been dialed way back for something cleaner and considerably easier to dress up.
Mayfare loafer,
Your race-day shoes just got faster. adidas continues to push its Adizero line with the Adios Pro 5, a marathon-focused racer built around a featherweight Lightlock 2.0 upper, responsive Lightstrike Pro cushioning and the brand’s carbon-infused Energyrods. The tech is serious, but the razor-sharp silhouette and high-energy colorway make these unusually good-looking for something engineered around shaving seconds off a PR. Save them for race day if you’re disciplined. We wouldn’t blame you for training in them, either.
ADIZERO ADIOS Pro 5 shoe,
Del Toro’s Tuscan moc boot takes the familiar rugged shape of a traditional moc-toe derby and cleans it up with a distinctly Italian sensibility. The antelope suede gives the boot plenty of texture, while the derby lacing and streamlined proportions make it incredibly versatile. They’re substantial enough to anchor wide jeans or cords, but refined enough to wear with proper trousers.
Antelope textured Tuscan moc boot,
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