Footwear trends shift toward square-toed designs and nostalgic crossovers

The sneaker industry is seeing a shift toward unconventional silhouettes and nostalgic crossovers. Adidas is leading a trend toward square-toed sneakers, introducing squared-off versions of iconic models like the Stan Smith SQ and Superstar SQ. This experimentation includes collaborations such as the Stan Smith SQ via Yohji Yamamoto’s Y-3 line.

Other brands are also adopting boxier shapes. Onitsuka Tiger recently showcased the Mexico 66 Square, a more angular version of its signature slim trainer, during its autumn/winter 2026 show.

In a separate development, Nike has announced a release for the Air Tech Challenge 2 ‘Mag’. This retro-inspired design merges the 1990s tennis silhouette worn by Andre Agassi with the futuristic color palette of the Nike Air Mag from the film ‘Back to the Future Part II’. The release coincides with the upcoming 2026 US Open.