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Nearly half way through the year, the sneaker industry has continued to release a bivvy of sneakers to purchase. However, we’ve only seen several contenders for Sneaker of the Year. Bringing in two new contenders, a collaboration between Union LA and Jordan Brand is set to release, bringing two new sneakers into the 2021 limelight. Additionally, pairs from Nike and New Balance continue to make an impact, as displayed below.
Every week on Nice Picks, the team here at Nice Kicks selects five of their favorite releases this week. We’ve sifted through the noise to find the best releases for your hard earned money. Be sure to read further below.
5. Nike Dunk Low “Dusty Olive”
Colorway: Dusty Olive / Pro Gold
Style #: DH5360-300
Release Date: June 17, 2021
Price: $110
The Nike Dunk Low “Dusty Olive” is the latest colorway to hit the extensive catalog of Dunks, arriving with a series of bright colors. Buttery suedes construct the sneaker’s upper, replacing the typical leather materials often seen on its Brother pairs. A clean, simple colorway perfect for summer, these are slated to drop on June 17 for $110.
4. Nike LeBron 8 V2 Low “Miami Nights”
Colorway: White/Solar Red-Glass Blue-White
Style #: DJ4436-100
Release Date: June 21, 2021
Price: $180
The Nike LeBron 8 V2 Low “Miami Nights” is a classic among the future Hall of Famer’s lengthy sneaker catalog. In fact, the LeBron 8 stands out as perhaps his most hyped, beloved, and innovative silhouette, adding Air Max technology and several unique colorways to the construction and design. A classic for any LeBron fan, be sure to have your calendar marked for June 21.
3. Bodega x New Balance 990v3 “Anniversary”
Colorway: Kangaroo / Caribou
Style #: M990BD3
Release Date: June 16, 2021
Price: $220
Bodega and New Balance have had a special relationship, one bonafide enough to create sneaker of the year worthy projects. In their latest works, the duo has tagged the New Balance 990v3 as their latest project, celebrating the 15th “Anniversary” of Bodega’s Boston location. Don’t be one to miss this dynamic collaborative effort, so mark your calendars for June 16.
2. Union LA x Air Jordan 4 “Desert Moss”
Colorway: Desert Moss / Turquoise Blue / Dark Iris
Style #: DJ5718-300
Release Date: June 20, 2021
Price: $225 / £190 / $225
Union LA and Jordan Brand are back with a set of Air Jordan 4s, one arriving in “Desert Moss.” Taking the same design cues used in the original two pairs, Union founder Chris Gibbs has kept the tied tongue, clear webbing, and Nike Air branding on the heel. A part of the “Tent and Trail” capsule, the outdoor inspiration is clear across the upper’s unique color pallet. Look for this pair to be one of the most anticipated sneakers to drop this year.
1. Union LA x Air Jordan 4 “Taupe Haze”
Colorway: Taupe Haze / Blue Fury / Khaki / Roma Green
Style #: DJ5718-242
Release Date: June 20, 2021
Price: $225 / £190 / $225
Another Union LA x Air Jordan 4? It’s a no brainer that both had to be on the list, with this “Taupe Haze” iteration taking the cake as this week’s best release. Earth tone colors, hits of pastel colors, and the “Sail” midsole complete a flawless design. Likely to be called one of the best Air Jordan 4s of the year, look to cop these directly on Union’s website come June 20.
