2020 Top Sneaker Picks by Sneaker Freaker Staff: A Year in Footwear

The year 2020 will be remembered for many things, most of which are not likely to invoke feelings of nostalgia or warmth. But amidst the chaos, uncertainty, and global challenges that defined this remarkable year, one aspect remained surprisingly consistent – the world of sneakers. Sneakerheads around the globe were treated to a plethora of releases that ranged from iconic classics to avant-garde collaborations, each with its unique story to tell.

Sneaker Freaker, a leading authority in the sneaker culture, has always been at the forefront of showcasing the most coveted footwear drops. Their staff, a group of passionate sneaker enthusiasts, had their fingers on the pulse of the sneaker scene throughout 2020. In this article, we delve deep into the top sneaker picks of the year by Sneaker Freaker staff, capturing the essence of each release and what made them stand out in a year filled with unpredictability.

Gabe – Noah x Adidas Gazelle ‘Cheetah’

In a year where everything seemed to be turning wild and unpredictable, it’s fitting that one of the standout sneaker picks reflects this untamed spirit. Gabe’s choice, the Noah x Adidas Gazelle ‘Cheetah’, embodies the essence of 2020. The sneaker brought forth a subtle yet compelling design that managed to fly under the radar amidst the hype of other releases.

The animal print trend had a strong presence throughout 2020, with ‚Safari‘ Dunks and others gracing the scene. However, the Noah x Adidas Gazelle ‚Cheetah‘ was a sleeper hit, available quietly on Adidas’s website for those who were astute enough to spot it. Many missed out on these sneakers, much like the world missed out on normalcy in 2020. The collaboration’s understated allure paralleled the quiet moments of respite and introspection that many of us experienced during the year.

Gabe’s choice resonates with those who appreciated the subtlety and elegance that often gets overshadowed in the sneaker world. It serves as a reminder that even in chaotic times, there’s beauty in simplicity.

Ged – Star Wars x Adidas Rivalry Hi ‘Chewbacca’

2020 was a year when we needed heroes more than ever, and what better hero to celebrate than Chewbacca from Star Wars? Ged’s choice, the Star Wars x Adidas Rivalry Hi ‘Chewbacca’, paid homage to the ultimate wingman in the galaxy. The release of sneakers inspired by Star Wars characters was a recurring theme throughout the year, featuring iconic figures like Princess Leia, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Yoda, and Darth Vader. However, it was Chewbacca who stole the spotlight in October.

Novelty sneakers may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re going to embrace them, why not go all out? Adidas did just that with this furry rendition of the Rivalry Hi. The sneaker was a sensory delight, with Wookiee fur bursting out from behind most panels, Chewbacca’s visage on the tongue tag, and custom ‚Star Wars,‘ ‚Chewbacca,‘ and Millennium Falcon dubraes. The pièce de résistance was the ammunition belt stretching across the lacing unit, a nod to Chewbacca’s adventurous spirit and the ever-present danger in the galaxy.

Wearing these sneakers is like stepping into the shoes of a 2.3-meter-tall fuzzball when he enters a dive bar on Tatooine for a quiet drink. It’s a reminder that in times of uncertainty, a bit of whimsy and a loyal companion can make all the difference.

Seb – New Balance 992 ‘Navy’

The New Balance 992 had a stellar year in 2020, with multiple collaborations and a slew of spicy general release (GR) colorways. For Seb, the New Balance 992 ‘Navy’ was the crown jewel of this year’s releases. After facing disappointments earlier in the year, these sneakers offered redemption and a ray of hope.

What made the New Balance 992 ‚Navy‘ special was its combination of quality and aesthetics. Made in the USA, the sneakers boasted beautiful suede and navy underlays. The ‚Navy‘ colorway exuded a sense of calm and sophistication, making them a staple in Seb’s rotation.

The choice of the New Balance 992 ‚Navy‘ signifies resilience and an appreciation for timeless classics. In a year of ups and downs, sometimes it’s the understated elegance that shines the brightest.

Boon – Air Jordan 5 G ‚Wing It‘

Air Jordan releases are always highly anticipated, but the Air Jordan 5 G ‚Wing It‘ stood out for Boon in 2020. Golf-inspired sneakers have often left enthusiasts wondering why golfers get all the good colorways. This release was an exception.

The Air Jordan 5 G ‚Wing It‘ showcased a clean and refreshing color palette. Dressed in quality white leather with signature mesh inserts on the sides, the design featured ‚Grape Ice‘ and ‚Cool Blues,‘ a nod to the Winged Foot Golf Club, the host of that year’s US Open tournament. The sneakers also paid homage to Nike, the Greek Goddess of Victory, adding another layer of symbolism.

Boon’s choice highlights the joy of unexpected victories and the appreciation for clean, well-executed designs. While he might not have taken these sneakers to the golf course just yet, the prospect of using the magnetic Jumpman ball-marker lace toggle is indeed tempting.

Cesca – Nike Air Max 90 ‘Infrared’

The Nike Air Max 90 ‚Infrared‘ had been on sneaker enthusiasts‘ radar throughout 2020. With months of early rumors and leaked images, anticipation was at an all-time high. When the release details finally arrived, the shoe was revealed as the Air Max III ‚Radiant Red,‘ harkening back to its OG roots. The fact that it arrived in the original box, free of crushed toe boxes, with throwback advertising paraphernalia and a swing tag, made the release even more exciting.

Cesca’s choice emphasizes the enduring appeal of classic sneakers and the satisfaction that comes from a well-executed retro release. The Air Max 90 ‚Infrared‘ represents the reward of patience and a tribute to one of the most important releases in sneaker history.

Anthony – BAPE Sta Low ‘Colour Block Shark’

2020 was the Year of the Rat, symbolizing prosperity and surplus. Anthony’s resolution for the year was to maximize his sneaker collection with bold and unconventional choices. As a fitting farewell to this extraordinary year, he chose the BAPE Sta Low ‚Colour Block Shark,‘ a shoe that embodies unapologetic extravagance.

These sneakers are a riot of design elements, from the edgy BAPE shark motif on the side to the quirky ‚WGM (World Gone Mad)‘ on the heel. Nothing screams meme-worthy quite like the BAPE Sta Low ‚Colour Block Shark.‘ They serve as a symbol of 2020, an insane year that called for equally outrageous sneakers.

Anthony’s pick celebrates the audacious and the eccentric, reminding us that sometimes, it’s okay to embrace the bizarre and let our sneakers do the talking.

Minh – Ghostbusters x Reebok Ghost Smasher

Festive periods often bring a change in the rhythm of sne