The Most Anticipated Sneaker Drops of 2026
From the Air Jordan 3 Reimagined to the New Balance 1906 collab with Salehe Bembury, here are the releases we're watching most closely this year.
Every year has its defining releases — the pairs that define what sneaker culture is talking about. 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year, with major retros, long-awaited collabs, and a few wild cards from brands that have been quietly building momentum.
Here's our watchlist.
Air Jordan 3 Retro Reimagined
Jordan Brand's "Reimagined" series takes iconic silhouettes and reconstructs them with updated materials and refined colorways that respect the original DNA. The AJ3 Reimagined has been rumored for mid-2026, with a premium leather upper and updated cushioning.
Expected: Q3 2026
Retail: ~$200
Who it's for: Jordan purists who want the best version of a classic
New Balance 1906 x Salehe Bembury
Salehe Bembury has become one of the most in-demand collaborators in footwear. His NB 1906 collab last year sold out in minutes. Rumor is a follow-up is dropping in 2026 with a nature-inspired colorway and premium suede upper.
Expected: Q2 2026
Retail: ~$160
Who it's for: New Balance fans, collab collectors
Nike Air Max 1 "Anniversary" Pack
The Air Max 1 celebrates its 39th anniversary in 2026. Nike has hinted at a premium pack with OG materials, a wider toe box, and a colorway that references the original Tinker Hatfield sketches.
Expected: September 2026
Retail: ~$150
Who it's for: Running-inspired silhouette fans, OG AM1 wearers
Adidas Samba "Super" Pack
The Samba's meteoric rise over the last two years shows no signs of slowing. Adidas is reportedly releasing a "Super" pack with extended sizing, new materials (including a full nubuck option), and a wider distribution to meet demand.
Expected: Rolling releases through 2026
Retail: ~$100
Who it's for: Everyone — the Samba has crossed every demographic
ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 Collabs
The Kayano 14 has become the silhouette of the moment for retro running. ASICS has several collabs in the pipeline — brands like Kith and atmos have been teased. Expect drops in Q1 and Q3.
Expected: Q1 and Q3 2026
Retail: $120–$180 (collab-dependent)
Who it's for: Retro running collectors, anyone who missed the first wave
How to Cop
The best strategy for any hyped drop:
- Nike SNKRS / Confirmed app — enter every draw, even if your odds feel low
- Set alerts on SnkrBeast — we'll notify you when retail price listings go live
- StockX / GOAT pre-release — both allow you to buy before a drop at market price
- Follow the brand's Instagram — release time announcements often come 24 hours before
Stay tuned to our Release News section for dates as they're confirmed.
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