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2019 was, hands down, one of the hottest years for the sneaker industry. The launchpad for hundreds of high heat collaborations as well as a wide range of brand new silhouettes, it played a massive role in getting everyone and their dog into the game.
With all that said, NPD analyst Matt Powell has unveiled the top ten best selling sneakers of last year, and the results may be shocking for some. So from least to most popular, here they are!
Air Jordan 11
The legendary Air Jordan 11 ranked at number ten of the best selling sneakers last year. The brainchild of Tinker Hatfield, it was originally released in 1996 and is recognisable by its patent leather upper. The revival of the Air Jordan 11 "Bred" probably played a huge part in its popularity.
Nike Air Max 97
No one can get enough of the Nike Air Max 97. One of the most iconic Swoosh shoes ever made, it made its debut all the way back in 1997, and over two decades later, it's still as popular now as it was back in the day, thanks to colourways such as the Nike Air Max 97 "Corduroy" Pack.
Converse Chuck Taylor
Even after a century, the Converse Chuck Taylor remains as one of the best selling shoes ever made. A silhouette that spans across multiple cultures and trends, you're bound to find a pair that suits you. You can't mention the Con without talking about the GOLF le FLEUR x Converse Chuck 70 made in collaboration with Tyler, the Creator.
Vans Ward
Sure to be one of the most underrated silhouettes from the Anaheim-based skate brand's ever-growing portfolio, the Vans Ward is as versatile as it gets. Bearing a striking resemblance to the Vans Old Skool with a few very minor differences, this low cut number is a must cop.
Yeezy Boost 350 V2
Of course the Yeezy Boost 350 V2 was going to show up sooner or later. Without a shadow of a doubt, 2019 was the biggest year for the Kanye West silhouette, with high heat colourways such as the Yeezy Boost 350 V2 "Black" and the Yeezy Boost 350 V2 "True Form" dropping, this ranking number six on this list was inevitable, we're just shocked it wasn't a lot higher up.
Air Jordan 4
Last year saw more love for Jordan Brand as the Air Jordan 4 makes it to the top five. A shoe that debuted back in 1989, 2019 marked the silhouettes thirtieth anniversary, and with this, we saw the re-release of the Air Jordan 4 "Bred" as well as a wide range of must-have colours such as the Air Jordan 4 "Mushroom".
adidas NMD R1
Well, this was unexpected. According to Matt Powell, the adidas NMD R1 is the fourth best selling sneaker of 2019, making us wonder if the Nomad hype really is dead. Thanks to collabs like the Star Wars x adidas NMD R1 "Darth Vader" and the Sneakersnstuff x adidas NMD R1 "Datamosh 2.0", this travel-friendly silo is as popular as ever.
Nike Tanjun
Yet another extremely underrated shoe has made it to this list in the form of the Nike Tanjun. Placing a massive emphasis on simplicity and minimalism, this shoe is particular popular for professions where you're always on your feet. Looking a lot like the Nike Air Presto, make sure you cop these if you need something pretty versatile and cost effective.
Nike Air Force 1
A shoe that we thought would've taken the number one spot, the Nike Air Force 1 is the second best selling sneaker of 2019. A classic trainer that created tonnes of high heat collaborations at the end of last year, such as the CLOT x Nike Air Force 1 "Game Royal" and the PEACEMINUSONE x Nike Air Force 1, this just proves that the AF1 isn't going anywhere any time soon.
Nike Air Max 270
And at first place is the Nike Air Max 270. A sneaker that made its debut during Air Max Day 2018, it's still as popular as ever, and there's really no questioning it. With a breathable Flyknit upper and an ultra comfortable Air midsole, we're not all surprised by its number one spot. It just goes to show that you don't need a ton of high heat collabs to do well.
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