The five pairs our team can’t stop talking about
Before ACG was ACG, the Long Distance Vector summited peaks. This new version ($130) has been reworked to be trail ready.
Published
July 8, 2026
Published
July 8, 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 barely-there sandals to classic Japanese craftsmanship and some minimalist leather sneakers, these are the kicks our team can’t stop talking about.
There are sandals, and then there are barely-there sandals. The Genesis strips footwear down to the essentials with an ultra-thin sole and an adjustable climbing rope-inspired lacing system that lets your feet move naturally while still protecting them from rough pavement and rocky trails. They weigh next to nothing, roll up small enough to toss in a weekender and are surprisingly versatile—equally suited for beach vacations, camping trips or simply getting around town when the temperature climbs into the 90s. For anyone curious about barefoot footwear, this is one of the easiest ways to give it a try.
Xero Genesis rope sandal,
Japanese shoemaker Moonstar has been quietly making some of the best sneakers in the world for more than 150 years. And the Low Trainer is a perfect introduction to the brand. Handmade in Kurume using its signature vulcanization process, each pair is finished with clean lines, subtle branding and an old-school gym-shoe profile that looks as sharp with shorts as it does suits. The canvas upper and grippy rubber sole make them ideal everyday sneakers, while the craftsmanship gives them the kind of longevity that’s increasingly hard to find. If you’re looking for an smarter alternative to the usual Converse or Vans, this is it.
Moonstar Low trainer sneaker,
French footwear label Jacques Solovière has built its reputation on effortless elegance, and the Olivier Derby is a masterclass in restrained luxury. Crafted from buttery latte-colored suede with a lightweight (and ultra comfortable) crepe sole, it has the relaxed attitude of a desert boot and the refinement of a classic derby. The result is an incredibly versatile lace-up that feels right with everything from crisp linen trousers to faded denim. It’s the sort of shoe that quietly elevates an outfit without ever demanding attention. And that’s precisely the point.
Jacques Solovière Oliver derby,
Minimal sneakers have become a crowded category, but LUCA manages to stand out by focusing on all the right details. Handmade in Portugal from premium leather, the Low Pro features soft suede accents, a comfortable cup sole and a streamlined silhouette that works with nearly everything in your closet. They’re a polished version of the legendary German Army trainer but with a more modern low-profile sole. They’re the kind of sneaker you’ll end up reaching for far more often than you expected. Quiet luxury without trying too hard.
Low Pro Sneaker,
Nike’s iconic ACG line has always excelled at blending outdoor utility with street-ready style, and the new LDV continues that tradition. Borrowing its silhouette from vintage running shoes, this version updates the formula with trail-inspired materials, rugged traction and a striking mix of varsity red, grey and black. It’s sporty without looking overly technical and rugged without feeling bulky. Whether you’re heading for a weekend hike or just want something with a little more personality than your standard retro runner, the LDV delivers.
ACG LDV sneaker,
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