The five pairs our team can’t stop talking about
KEEN’s Jasper ($165) is a fast-and-light waterproof sneaker wrapped in clean, brushed suede.
Published
August 26, 2026
Published
August 26, 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 waterproof trail sneakers to an unexpected golf collab, these are the kicks our team can’t stop talking about.
G.H.Bass teams up with Metalwood Studios to revive the Sportocasin, an archival silhouette with some serious links history. This shoe was originally worn by Bobby Jones. But the update comes in pebbled black leather with the low, streamlined shape of a derby and just enough old-school sporting DNA to keep things interesting. The result feels less like something you’d wear for 18 holes and more like an unusually cool alternative to your standard black loafer.
G.H.Bass x Metalwood Studios Sportocasin derby lace-up,
The 991 has always been one of New Balance’s more refined runners, and the v2 makes the formula even better with a sleeker profile and updated cushioning underfoot. This Made in UK edition combines premium suede and breathable mesh with full-length FuelCell cushioning, so they’re every bit as comfortable as they look. There’s still plenty of early-aughts runner energy here, but the craftsmanship and understated walnut palette keep them well clear of gym-shoe territory.
Made in UK 991V2 sneaker,
L.L.Bean’s century-old Maine Hunting shoe gets a limited run in Mossy Oak’s Bottomland Camo, marking the camo brand’s 40th anniversary. The 10-inch height gives you plenty of protection from rain, mud and whatever else fall throws your way, while the deliberately old-school construction (still made in Maine) is exactly what makes them look so good.
Maine Hunting shoe,
Sanders has been making shoes in England since the 19th century, and this Lo-Top Gibson shows why the old guys still know what they’re doing. Handcrafted from a supple polo snuff suede, it takes the familiar British derby and strips it down into something softer and easier for everyday wear. The low profile feels casual enough for denim, but there’s still enough polish to work with proper trousers. Basically, they’re what you put on when sneakers feel too casual and loafers feel a little too obvious.
Lo-Top Gibson Derby,
KEEN’s Jasper has always had that quirky approach-shoe appeal, but the Zionic version makes it considerably more useful beyond the climbing gym. You get the low-slung, outdoorsy silhouette and extended lacing, now paired with trail-ready cushioning, serious traction and the brand’s KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane protection. It’s technical enough for an actual weekend outside but weirdly handsome with fatigues or wide-leg chinos back in town. Which is really the sweet spot for outdoor sneakers these days.
KEEN Jasper Zionic WP trail sneaker,
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