The Best Sneakers of 2022 So Far...

Can you believe it? We're half-way through 2022 already! They say time flies when you're having fun, and that's certainly true in the sneaker industry. Despite supply chain issues and constant delays, we still think that this year has started off incredibly strong. We've seen more collaborations that ever before, feigned shock at older silhouettes returning to the limelight once again, and whilst there's been plenty of Ls, we've had a lot of Ws to celebrate too. With so many good releases under our belt, and so many more yet to come, we asked The Sole Supplier team what their favourite release of 2022 so far is. Bear in mind this doesn't even scratch the surface! We'd love to know what your favourite pick-up is this year. But in the meantime, here's ours...

Teddy Santis rediscovering the New Balance 550 silhouette in 2020 was nothing short of game-changing for the Boston-based brand. The basketball-turned-lifestyle sneaker has made waves for the brand that was typically known to produce dad sneakers, and dad sneakers only. Now taking the fashion, Instagram and sneaker worlds by storm, it was only right that we kicked off the list with Jess' favourite colourway so far: the New Balance 550 "UNC".

We're currently two for two from the New Balance brand, proving that it's not just Nike that know how to get sneakerheads all worked up. Emily's favourite pair this year so far, and this was a tough question, is her New Balance 2002R "Nightwatch Green". Since the Protection Pack, the 20-year-old silhouette has seen an influx in popularity, and the colours just keep on coming. If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right?

You knew it was coming... Ellie has had quite a few pick-ups this year (so much so that even she has a reputation in the office - yes! In a room full of sneakerheads!), but one of her favourites is the super-clean sacai x Nike VaporWaffle "White Sail". Chitose Abe's collaborations with the Swoosh Brand never miss, but this one was an absolute bullseye. Sorry, the "Off Noir" pair just don't come as close for us!

An early contender for the best sneaker of 2022, perhaps? You just can't go wrong with a black and white pair of sneakers. The Air Jordan 4 "Military Black" is Miles' favourite pair of the year so far, and it's easy to see why. Premium build, great colour-blocking, and an all-round good shoe that's ideal with any 'fit.

A retro of a Japan-exclusive from 1998, New Jersey born-and-bred artist Imran Potato said that the Knu-Skool VR3 LX was the best silhouette of all time. Combining humour and fashion, the Vans pair sees an overstuffed tongue update the design, whilst premium cotton laces and a customised waffle outsole complete the look. It's easy to see why this is Taylor's favourite release of the year so far.

It's strange to be six sneakers in, and to only have just got to an Air Jordan 1, but what can we say? 2022 has been full of surprises. For Craig, the Air Jordan 1 High '85 "Georgetown" is the best sneaker of the year so far. After nearly a 40-year wait, sneakerheads were finally able to get their hands on the recreation of the "Georgetown Hoyas" sample first seen back in 1985. It's an extremely clean pair, to say the least.

The Salomon XT-6 is slowly (not so slowly) making its way into the lifestyle-sneaker sphere. Exclusively produced for Dover Street Market, this "Silver Black" iteration looks clean both for everyday wear and adventures. Whilst there's plenty of Salomon branding, the pair are not obviously a collaboration.

Whilst JJJJound's absolutely killing it with the New Balance releases this year, Dhyl chose the BAPE STAs over the 990v3 in "Khaki". A fresh white upper interspersed with BAPE's signature branding in a pleasing light grey; it had to be a cop!

What's your favourite release of the year so far? Let us know over on Twitter, and don't forget to set your release reminders for any upcoming drops to ensure you secure the W. We'd hate for you to miss out on your favourites!

For further reading, check out the articles below: