Are These The Top Best Sneakers in 2024 So Far?

The year 2024 has not been short of excitement for sneakerheads. There has been much to talk about, especially regarding sneaker releases, trends, and styles. These have kept the mouths of sneakerheads and the media buzzing as the year progresses. Most notably, the sneaker releases have dropped shockers on the entire sneaker community due to the release of new models and cult classics—some of which, according to some of the older heads, we were never meant to own.

Indeed, 2024 is shaping up to be another amazing year for sneakers, and it would be fascinating to explore which sneakers are defining this year. Like every other publication with a similar theme, it’s ideal to narrow these sneakers down to a list of the best. However, I thought of the need to amplify the different personalities people embrace when it comes to sneakers. That's why we'll be taking a journey through the personal picks of some notable individuals in the African sneaker scene, showcasing the top sneakers and projects of 2024 so far.

The aim is to celebrate our diversity as individuals and to encourage the uniqueness that each of us can bring to sneaker culture, acknowledging that the culture itself is ever-evolving. Here are the top picks from some key figures in the African sneaker space. It's worth noting that these individuals contribute to sneaker culture in Africa in various ways, but they all share a common passion as sneakerheads.

Smallz is a co-host on the Mysloezfly show. You can find him on IG as smalllz10

Blksnkfa is a photographer. You can find him on IG as rhudieshoots.

Oluwagbemiga is a content creator. You can find him on IG as Oluwagbemigaaa.

Raph is a co-host on the Mysolezfly show. You can find him on IG as rn_welly

Tife is the founder of Sneaklin, a sneakers-cleaning facility in Africa. You can find him on IG as tifepariola.

28Baadblood is the founder of SneakerFest, a sneaker festival sensation in Africa. You can find him on IG as 28Baadblood.

OBSERVATION:

The curated list shows the individuality of these sneakerheads through their selections and preferences for which sneakers should make the list. However, there were some common choices, as certain sneakers appeared on more than one list. This solidifies the fact that some sneakers perform well enough to capture widespread attention, making them widely appreciated as standout projects. On the other hand, there are distinct differences between the lists, highlighting the uniqueness of these individuals by introducing pairs that make their lists differ from others.

Furthermore, the popularity of dad shoe styles can’t be overlooked, as many of them are featured in the lists, thereby solidifying their current successful trend. The variety of brands producing these styles in recent years has also contributed to their prominence.

Additionally, cult classics and retros always find their way into these types of lists, either through collaborations or the re-release of pairs that haven’t been seen in a long time. It raises the question: How long will people continue to ride the waves of retros instead of moving towards protros?

CONCLUSION:

Based on the curated list, it’s clear that some sneakers have outperformed others in ways that have caught the attention of these respected individuals. It would be interesting to examine the sneakers that have appeared most frequently on the lists so far. This recurrence serves as common ground and a basis for identifying the top five best sneakers of 2024.

Here is a breakdown of the top five best sneakers:

The Adidas AE1 tops the list with four appearances across the six curated lists. Three Nike sneakers made the list: the Air Jordan 4 “Bred Reimagined,” the Air Jordan 3 x J Balvin “Rio,” and the Jordan x Travis Scott Jumpman Jack, each with three appearances. Additionally, the New Balance x Action Bronson 1906 R “Medusa Azul” secured New Balance’s spot with three appearances. This showcases a great representation of the top three sneaker brands in 2024.

Seeing the Adidas AE1 at the top is especially noteworthy, as it signifies a resurgence for basketball sneakers breaking into the lifestyle category while also performing well on the court. In a previous piece, I detailed how sneakers can significantly impact the sport of basketball and the sneaker culture by creating a defining identity for this era through basketball sneakers.

In conclusion, it is important to individually appreciate each selection for what it represents and to understand why these choices stand out among the many others.