iker features a BOA lacing system for easy on and off access, as well as a Vibram Megagrip outsole for superior traction on any terrain.
Welcome to the First Full Week of 2025: Sneaker Releases and News Roundup
Welcome to the first full week of 2025, sneakerheads! With the chaos of New Year’s behind us, it’s time to get back into the swing of things. And for footwear brands, that means ramping up for some major releases. This week, we’ve got some exciting drops from New Balance, Merrell, Nike, PUMA, Converse, and Jordan Brand. But before we dive into the best options, let’s take a look at the top sneaker news from last week.
Air Jordan 1’s 40th Anniversary: A Sneakerhead’s Guide
Last week, we put together an unofficial guide to the Air Jordan 1’s 40th anniversary. We highlighted 20 upcoming releases featuring the iconic silhouette, including collaborations, classics, and newcomers.
Nike Kobe Line: New Releases and Previews
The Nike Kobe line made headlines last week with the announcement of five “Team Bank” colorways of the Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro dropping this year. We also got an official preview of the “University Red” version of the Kobe 5 Protro “Year of the Mamba,” set to release this week. And that’s not all – Jordan Brand had some major moments as well.
Jordan Brand News: Zion Williamson’s Jordan Zion 4 and More
Jordan Brand had a lot of buzz last week, with the unveiling of Zion Williamson’s Jordan Zion 4. We also got a sneak peek at this year’s Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” and saw some exciting Air Jordan samples, including a Slam Dunk-themed pair of Air Jordan 23s, two OVO x Air Jordan 9s, and another fragment design x Air Jordan 3.
New Balance Surprises with Salehe Bembury Collaboration and 1906L Sneaker Loafers
In other industry news, a surprise collaboration between Salehe Bembury and New Balance on the 1500 MADE in UK colorway appeared out of nowhere, with a likely release later this month. New Balance also dropped two new colorways of its 1906L sneaker loafer – “Silver Metallic” and a black and silver rendition.
Adidas Basketball’s Year of the Snake Collection and LOEWE and On’s Cloudtilt 2 Colorways
Adidas Basketball gave us a preview of their Year of the Snake collection, while LOEWE and On rounded out the week with three new colorways of the Cloudtilt 2.
This Week’s Must-Have Sneakers: JJJJound x New Balance 2002R GORE-TEX “Black” and Merrell SpeedArc Surge BOA
Now that you’re caught up on all the latest sneaker news, let’s dive into this week’s must-have releases. First up, we have another chance to cop the highly coveted JJJJound x New Balance 2002R GORE-TEX “Black” collaboration. And for those looking for a new hiking shoe, Merrell is dropping the SpeedArc Surge BOA with a BOA lacing system and Vibram Megagrip outsole for ultimate comfort and traction.
Don’t miss out on these releases – head to HBX to shop styles that are available now. Happy shopping, sneakerheads!
