5 Underrated Sneakers You Shouldn’t Sleep On

We’re totally aware that Nike and Jordan shoes get top billing when it comes to new sneaker releases. While launches from these namesake brands are certainly on all the must-have lists for sneakerheads and sneakeristas (for good reason!), we sometimes take for granted all the underrated sneakers out there, too — the hidden gems of the sneakersphere.

With so many amazing brands, new releases, and collectible colorways hitting our shelves and stock, this post is a shout out for those sneakers that don’t always get the press they deserve. Here are five of our underrated footwear favorites to add to your collection right now: 

1. New Balance 574 

If you’re a fan of the New Balance brand — and you should be — don’t overlook the New Balance 574s. Perfect for everyday wear, the sneakers promise premium comfort, thanks to EVA and ENCAP midsole technology and support, and a classic dad-shoe silhouette. Plus, the suede and textile upper exudes a timeless retro appeal. 

2. adidas Continental 

Maybe you’re a fan of Vans Wards or adidas Superstars, but want to add some variety to your lineup of kicks. If you’re looking for something similar to these styles, bridge the gap in your sneaker collection with the adidas Continental. This shoe’s robust silhouette gives off an athleisure vibe, offered in several different materials including leather, canvas and suede atop vulcanized rubber outsoles. 

3. PUMA Cali 

Should you have a pair of PUMA Suedes in your closet? Yes. Do you also need the Calis to prove your PUMA devotion? Also yes. Embrace the glow-up culture by snagging a pair of PUMA Calis with their signature stacked-platform design, three-piece rubber tooling at the midsole, perforated toe box and PUMA Formstrip. 

4. Reebok Classic Leather 

While the brand has been busy launching its Zig Kinetica and the Allen Iverson fan-favorite Question, Reebok’s Classic Leather kicks deserve their chance in the spotlight, too. These timeless shoes have a premium, super-soft garment leather upper that takes the style of a running shoe and elevates it for streetwear. If you are looking for an old-school silhouette reminiscent of Nike running shoes from the ’80s or ’90s, pick up a pair of the tonal white or black Classic Leather editions, or choose a more colorful version — your call. 

5. New Balance OMN1S 

While you’re waiting for the next Jordan or LeBron sneaker to drop, why not look for a basketball shoe that, in our opinion, is super underrated but will bring some serious heat to your sneaker game? While LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard may be less well known than some of the other celebrity sneaker endorsers, his shoe game is strong. New Balance x Kawhi Leonard OMN1S sneakers get colorways that rival LeBron’s, Steph Curry’s and James Harden’s shoes. And since they’re made by New Balance, you can count on awesome technology contained within. The 3D Ultra Heel combines with a FitWeave upper for a locked-in fit bolstered by a midfoot strap, and a full-length FuelCell midsole gives plenty of bounce and responsiveness. 

While you’re on the hunt for the next anticipated Jordan release or a new Nike Air Max colorway, don’t sleep on these underrated sneakers. Stay connected with Hibbett | City Gear’s sneaker launch calendar to find your next new favorite!