Sports shoe trends change quickly, but in 2026, running-inspired sneakers, retro basketball shoes, and streamlined low-profile styles are particularly popular in the U.S. Performance running shoes are also seeing strong consumer demand: Circana reported that U.S. running-shoe sales increased 13% in both dollar and unit terms during the first half of 2026.
What Sports Shoes Are Trending?
Some of the sports shoes and athletic-inspired sneakers getting significant attention in 2026 include the Nike Vomero 5, ASICS GEL-1130, New Balance 530, New Balance 9060, Jordan Retro 3, adidas Samba, and several current performance running shoes. The exact popularity of a shoe can vary depending on whether you mean athletic performance, everyday fashion, or sneaker collecting.
1. Running Shoes
Running shoes are one of the strongest trends right now. They are increasingly being worn not only for running but also for walking, travel, errands, and everyday outfits.
Popular current examples include the Nike Pegasus 42, ASICS Novablast 6, Nike Vomero Plus, Hoka Clifton 11, and New Balance SuperComp Rebel v1. Current 2026 running-shoe reviews highlight these models for different purposes, from everyday running to cushioning and speed.
The broader trend is significant because consumers increasingly want athletic shoes that can perform during exercise while still looking appropriate with casual clothing.
2. Nike Vomero 5
The Nike Vomero 5 has become a prominent example of the performance-running-meets-lifestyle trend.
Its technical-looking construction and running-shoe-inspired design fit the current preference for athletic footwear that can be worn throughout the day. USA TODAY identified the Vomero 5 as one of the leading sneaker styles for fall 2026.
It is particularly appealing if you want a shoe that looks sporty without necessarily wearing a traditional running shoe.
3. ASICS GEL-1130
The ASICS GEL-1130 is another popular retro-running style.
It draws from ASICS’ running heritage while fitting the current “tech runner” aesthetic. Its combination of a recognizable athletic appearance and everyday versatility has helped make it a popular lifestyle sneaker.
The model has also performed strongly in sneaker resale activity. Data covering January through September 2026 placed the GEL-1130 among the year’s top-selling sneakers on GOAT and StockX.
4. New Balance 530 and 9060
New Balance has benefited from the continued popularity of retro and performance-inspired running shoes.
The New Balance 530 represents the simpler retro-running trend, while the New Balance 9060 takes a more futuristic and substantial approach. Both have been identified among notable fall 2026 sneaker trends.
The 530 can work particularly well for people who prefer a relatively straightforward retro athletic look. The 9060 is more distinctive, with a larger, sculpted appearance.
5. Retro Basketball Shoes
Basketball-inspired sneakers remain an important part of sneaker culture.
The Jordan Retro 3, for example, continues to be a major lifestyle sneaker beyond the basketball court. Current U.S. sneaker trend coverage identifies retro basketball silhouettes as one of the major forces shaping fall 2026 footwear.
These shoes appeal to people who want a connection to basketball history while also wearing the shoes as everyday fashion.
6. adidas Samba
The adidas Samba continues to be relevant despite originating as an indoor soccer shoe rather than a modern running shoe.
Its slim profile makes it particularly suitable for the current shift toward lower-profile sneakers. USA TODAY included the Samba among the key sneaker styles expected to remain prominent during fall 2026.
This trend demonstrates that a sports shoe does not have to be designed for today’s performance athlete to influence modern sneaker fashion.
7. Performance Running Shoes
If you mean sports shoes that are actually trending among people who exercise, performance running shoes deserve particular attention.
Current popular models include shoes such as the ASICS Novablast 6, Nike Pegasus 42, Saucony Hurricane 25, Nike Vomero Plus, and New Balance SuperComp Rebel v1. Each serves a somewhat different purpose, so popularity does not mean every model is appropriate for every runner.
Adidas’ current best-seller listings also include models such as the Adizero Adios Pro 5, Hyperboost Edge, and Adizero EVO SL.
8. Basketball Shoes Are Trending Too
Basketball footwear continues to attract attention through both professional athletes and new signature releases.
One notable 2026 development is the launch of Nike Caitlin 1, Caitlin Clark’s first Nike signature basketball shoe. The shoe launched in October 2026 and reflects the continuing interest in new signature basketball footwear.
Skechers has also received considerable attention in basketball. OG Anunoby wore Skechers basketball footwear during the 2026 NBA Finals, helping generate additional attention around the brand’s basketball models.
What Is Driving Sports Shoe Trends?
Several factors are influencing what people are wearing.
Comfort
Consumers increasingly want shoes that can handle long periods of walking and everyday activity. This is one reason performance running designs have moved beyond the running track and into casual fashion.
Retro Style
Older athletic designs continue to return because they combine recognizable sports heritage with modern styling.
Athlete Influence
Professional athletes can quickly increase attention around a shoe, particularly when a signature model or unusual brand receives exposure during a major sporting event.
Versatility
People increasingly want one pair of shoes that can work for exercise, travel, casual outfits, and everyday activities. This helps explain the popularity of running-inspired lifestyle sneakers.
Are Chunky Sports Shoes Still Trending?
Chunky sneakers have not disappeared, but the trend is becoming more balanced.
Some oversized running-inspired shoes remain popular, including models such as the New Balance 9060. At the same time, 2026 fashion coverage points toward a renewed interest in streamlined, low-profile sneakers.
Therefore, the current trend is not simply “chunky shoes.” Consumers have more choices between substantial technical-looking runners and slimmer retro athletic designs.
How Should You Choose a Trending Sports Shoe?
Don’t choose a shoe solely because it is popular.
If you intend to run, choose a model appropriate for your running needs. If you want an everyday sneaker, appearance, comfort, and versatility may matter more. If you play basketball, look for footwear designed specifically for court movement.
A trending lifestyle sneaker is not necessarily the best choice for athletic performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sports shoes are most popular right now?
Running shoes, retro basketball sneakers, and retro-running styles are among the strongest trends in 2026. Specific popular examples include the Nike Vomero 5, ASICS GEL-1130, New Balance 530, New Balance 9060, and Jordan Retro 3.
Are running shoes still trending?
Yes. Running shoes are one of the strongest areas of the U.S. athletic-footwear market. Circana reported 13% growth in both dollar and unit sales for running shoes during the first half of 2026.
Are retro sports shoes still fashionable?
Yes. Retro basketball and running-inspired sneakers remain major parts of sneaker culture in 2026.
Is Nike Vomero 5 still trending?
Yes. The Nike Vomero 5 continues to be highlighted in 2026 sneaker trend coverage, particularly as an example of the growing popularity of running-inspired lifestyle shoes.
Are ASICS sports shoes trending?
Yes. ASICS has benefited from the popularity of retro-running and technical-looking sneakers, with the GEL-1130 being one notable example.
Are basketball shoes trending in 2026?
Yes. Retro basketball sneakers remain influential, while new signature basketball shoes are also attracting attention.
Conclusion
The biggest sports-shoe trends in 2026 are centered on running-inspired footwear, retro basketball designs, retro runners, and versatile athletic sneakers. Shoes such as the Nike Vomero 5, ASICS GEL-1130, New Balance 530, New Balance 9060, Jordan Retro 3, and adidas Samba are examples of styles receiving significant attention in the U.S. market.
For actual exercise, however, performance should come before fashion. The best trending shoe is not necessarily the best shoe for your particular sport, foot shape, or workout.