The Most Talked-about Sneaker Drops Of 2026 So Far

Indian sneaker labels have spent years trying to prove they can compete in a space dominated by global giants, but drops like Almost Gods’ Tether show the conversation has finally started shifting. The New Delhi label’s latest release arrives at a time when fashion-led sneakers are seeing renewed interest, especially designs that balance technical construction with a stronger cultural identity. That same momentum can be seen across this year’s biggest launches, from the Virgil Abloh Archive x Air Jordan 1 High OG ‘Alaska’ to MM6 Maison Margiela x Salomon’s CROSS DUST. Below, we list the most talked about sneakers drops of 2026 till now. Read on.

For SS26, MM6 Maison Margiela and Salomon introduce the MM6 Maison Margiela x Salomon CROSS DUST, a new silhouette that combines Salomon’s trail-running functionality with MM6’s stripped-back design language. Inspired by Maison Margiela’s signature dust bags, the sneaker features a technical gaiter that conceals the bungee lacing system beneath for a cleaner and more minimal look. Launch colorways include tonal white-beige and all-black options, giving the otherwise technical silhouette a more understated and versatile finish.

New Delhi's Almost Gods just launched their debut sneaker, and it’s one of the most hyped drops in the indian market right now. Inspired by classic GAT silhouettes, the design features wrap-around lacing, layered panelling, and brushed suede that changes character with each wear. The focus on structure and texture, and long-term wear in these shoes is nothing short of delicious, and it only gets better with each wear.

One of the most considered India-specific sneaker collaborations of the year, Superkicks and Puma built the Jamun colourway around the seasonal fruit: two purple-toned designs that reference local culture without making it too frivolous or on-your-nose. The Palermo silhouette is the right canvas for it, being a low-profile terrace shoe that wears the colour just as intended.

For the Xoloni Orange, Gully Labs partnered with CMF by Nothing and ran a national design challenge; the winning design came from designer Dhreetimaan Sarmah. The shoe is built from orange suede and soft leather, with signature screw accessories integrated into the toe to give it an industrial edge, and CMF by Nothing branding on the tongue label. Only 200 individually numbered pairs exist, reinforcing its status as a collector's piece. The restock window is open right now, so grab it before it's gone once and for all.

For SS26, EA7 returns with a footwear-led collection built squarely around technical construction and daily utility. The Ace Runner New features a breathable textile upper reinforced with overlays for structural support, a cushioned midsole for underfoot comfort, and a rubber outsole built for traction and stability. The collection works across training, running, and daily needs, making it perfect choice if you’re looking for an understated pair of go-to sneakers.

Originally launched in 2005 as one of the earliest footwear expressions from Pharrell Williams and NIGO, the Board Flip laid early groundwork for the luxury streetwear crossovers that dominate the runway today. This reissue brings back the archival "Watermelon" colourway and adds an all-new "Pink Lemonade" edition. Both feature an injection EVA midsole with painted grooves, a durable rubber outsole with a protective toe wrap, and alternate lace options for customisation.

Originaly named Euro, The Air Jordan 1 Retro High Virgil Abloh Archive 'Alaska' is probably the most eagerly awaited return of 2026 till now. Dressed entirely in white, the sneaker comes decorated with all sorts of deconstructed details, layered materials, and the industrial accents that defined Abloh's original Off-White collaboration from 2017.