6 Radical Nike Sneakers That Made Their Debut in 2020

It’s hard to deny that Nike are an unstoppable force in today’s sneaker and street-wear scene. You just need to look at the hype which surrounds many of their iconic silhouettes. The likes of the Air Force 1, OG Air Maxs and Jordans prove that Nike’s legacy is stronger than ever. But there’s another reason we’re all completely addicted and that’s down to Nike’s ongoing innovation. It never stops!

In 2020, there’s already been no less than 20 completely new Nike trainers. In this guide, we put the spotlight on 6 of the most radical, those which deliver the best in contemporary style and comfort. Keep scrolling as we’ve also included info on where to cop.

It seems everyone is completely obsessed with Nike’s skateboarding range this year. Admittedly, most of the hype centres around the many SB Dunk collaborations. The likes of that Travis Scott exclusive was enough to almost break the internet. But aside from those painfully limited releases, there’s been completely new Nike SB trainers to make their debut, albeit not quite as sought-after. Just take the Nike SB Nyjah Free 2, a shoe which is low-key one of 2020’s best skateboarding drops.

Arriving at the hands of pro-skater Nyjah Huston, this model is designed with both style and comfort in mind. Nike’s innovative Free midsole sits underfoot, offering flexible support, whilst an ultra-durable uppers makes these even more appealing – especially at the price point of only £84.

Several of the initial colourways were quick to sellout but thankfully, more styles just keep on releasing. Shop the full range at Nike UK.

Today’s cutting-edge footwear may offer a vision of what the future holds for us sneakerheads. Maybe self-lacing technology will finally take off, the Air Huarache could make a huge comeback (doubtful), or, we could all be machine-powered cyborgs that don’t require the need for something as a primitive as footwear! Who knows, but for now, Nike is unveiling futuristic designs that almost seem ahead of their time - the Nike React Vision being a perfect example.

There are, of course, some familiar features on this newcomer. For starters, the shoe and midsole remains similar to the popular React Element 55. You know what this means – unrivalled comfort thanks to that lightweight and ultra-grippy midsole. It’s actually the finer details that makes these so unique. A fabric mesh is used across the upper with subtle use of suede overlays throughout. Since the first pair launched back in February, colourways have ranged from those featuring eye-popping volts and neons to that best-selling triple black colourway.

Aside from that state-of-the-art aesthetic, there’s likely another reason these a so popular. The synthetic panelling across the heel projects outwards, not dissimilar to the double-midsole theme seen on the Sacai x LD Waffle. It’s the ultimate finishing touch to this space-age runner. Shop the full range at Nike UK.

It’s not unusual to see Nike’s newest footwear pay homage to icons in some way, whether that’s in the look of the shoe or the embedded technology that’s hidden from view. The Nike Air Max 2090 opts for the former and doesn’t shy away from its resemblance to the Air Max 90. In fact, the whole marketing slogan was a nod to the old-school classic, “bring the past into the future with the Nike Air Max 2090”.

Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the AM90, fans are treated to a contemporary upgrade that is far more functional than its predecessor. A synthetic upper almost sits like a jacket across the upper. The popularity is hardly is surprising here in the UK what with the threat of constant downpours. It’s the full water-proof construct that makes these especially versatile.

Several colourways have launched since the debut during Air Max Day, everything from all-black to magma orange. Priced at £129, these are certainly one of the more expensive Air Max models but the added tech and comfort is probably justified for most. Shop the full range at Nike UK.

Admittedly, this year’s newest addition to the Air Max 720 line-up, the OBJ Slip doesn’t appear at first glance to feature many, if any differences compared with last year’s model. But look again, the crazy scientists at Nike have tinkered with the design and gone for a much more tech-driven look.

Part of the ongoing collaboration with top wider receiver and fashion icon, Odell Beckham Jr., this design is unforgiving in both its use of eccentric panelling and in the chunky and oversized Air Unit that sits underfoot. But what makes these so special is that innovative lacing system or lack thereof. Instead, the wearer gets an effortless fit thanks to integrated webbing that adjusts with movement.

Some might say these are underrated with several of the new styles still up for grabs. That includes summit white, university blue and team orange. Shop the full range at Nike UK.

It’s been fascinating to watch the evolution of Nike’s Vapormax over the years whether it was a slight change to the type of Flyknit or the more radical spin-offs such as the Vapormax Plus and Vapormax 95. Building upon the original model, it seems Nike are on a constant quest of improvement. The latest release is arguably the most impressive yet, not just in design but because the 2020 Vapormax represents a step towards a more sustainable future.

That’s right, several of the initial colourways are crafted utilising recycled materials. That includes Nike’s Grind tech built into the outsole as well as waste-saving materials woven into the uppers. The Vapormax bubble is noticeably shrunk down on this pair, a decisive change that will appeal to some and not to others!

Having only just released, more exciting colourways are on the way including a hugely anticipated oreo colourway. Shop the full range at Nike UK.

And you thought the chunky sneaker trend was a thing of the past! Think again as this enduring craze doesn’t look to be slowing. In fact, with new launches like the Air Zoom Type, it seems brands are still outcompeting on their efforts to make that midsole even larger.

It’s not just the oversized aesthetic that makes this contemporary sneaker so striking. Zoom technology is actually visible underfoot with colourful pods shown at the forefoot of the shoe. If they weren’t eye-catching enough, a dual layered midsole borrows from Sacai’s hit collaboration whilst premium suede uppers add some refinement across the upper. This pair releases alongside other icons to sit under Nike’s “TYPE” umbrella – a modern twist of favourites as well as completely new silhouettes like this.

The first two colours to arrive were quick to sellout, but there’s good news, as a college grey pair is launching soon! For more updates on Nike’s newest releases, be sure to download The Sole Supplier app!