April 2023

The New Shoes
on Our Radar

Norse Projects lace-up runner in white

April 2023

The New Shoes on Our Radar

From eco-friendly canvas kicks to a modern hiking shoe

Is it time to re-evaluate the shoes in your closet? Maybe this list will help get you going in the right direction. There are so many great shoes dropping these days, we thought we would pull a few of our current favorites to showcase. From a beautiful pair of leather loafers and full-zip sneakers to some vintage-looking trainers, these are the shoes our team can’t stop talking about.

Advertisement

Dartflex Loafer

The uncomfortable truth when it comes to loafers is that any worth wearing are usually an investment. This means finding a pair made in Italy for under $250 was unheard of—until Astorflex came into the picture. Their Dartflex is a moc-toe loafer designed to continue conforming to your foot with each wear. The bovine leather is thick yet supple on the interior for comfort, and the outsole is leather to add classic looks and extra durability. From summer weddings and jeans to office looks, these will look good with anything and will age even better.

$225 by Astorflex

Project Clifton Sneaker

I like HOKA shoes, but this pair are by far my favorite. I'm a less is more kind of person—including branded logos—and these are sleek and understated. But beyond looks, the shoe's technology is insane. The quick-lace system is convenient and looks nice, and the aquaguard zip (which seals out water) is flawless—stylish and functional, protecting against all-weather elements. The ripstop mesh also gives the shoe extra durability to wear off-road or whenever it rains. The telltale sole from the label makes for a comfortable and smooth ride throughout the day, and while the shoe is on the chunkier side, I've been rocking some cargo pants and fatigues with these, creating a juxtaposing fit.

$250 by HOKA

Wata II
Low Canvas Sneaker

If you're looking to update your summer canvas kicks with something more elevated and ethically made—Veja's new Wata II sneakers are the answer. The shoes are made in Brazil from 100% certified organic cotton, and the soles are crafted from 40% Amazonian rubber and 10% recycled rubber. A toe cap ensures your feet are stable and comfortable—these are the types of shoes you continue to reach for throughout the warmer months—the only question remains, socks or no socks?

$145 by Veja

Advertisement

EX89 Sneaker

If you want to separate yourself from the crowd wearing Reebok's Club Cs and adidas Sambas, these might be the retro-looking silhouette you need. I think we're going through a sneaker color cleanse right now as we rid ourselves of the overly designed and absurdly colored kicks. Asics gel-extreme sneaker pulls inspiration from their original basketball shoe designed in 1989 with modern-day technology. The classic suede overlay with neutral tones is still classic-looking, but the heel is updated with the brand's FF Blast technology, ensuring all-day comfort. Rock these with some faded denim or an airy pair of linen pants for the warmer weather.

$120 by Asics

Lace-Up Runner

Technical sneakers have crossed over into non-exercising territory, and these mean looking monochromatic kicks are certainly proof of that. Norse Project's lace-up runner is lightweight, weather-resistant, and mesh-lined for comfort and dynamic climate control. There's a stow-away pocket for lacing on the tongue of the shoe, the Ortholite insole provides long-lasting durability, and the Vibram outsole provides maximum stability and extra grip for hiking.

$325 by Norse Projects

Want More Style?

Sign up for The Obtainer newsletter. Three times a week you'll get insider intel on what to buy, trusted recommendations and reviews, along with the best deals worth your time and money.

More from
the Series

Advertisement