5 New Sneakers for the Transitional Season

Sneakers have a storied history. Easily dressed up or down, the shoes offer unmatched versatility. First associated with high-class leisure — they’re called tennis shoes for a reason! — these kicks were often paired with casual ensembles: think track pants and tees. By the ’90s, however, oversized jerseys, flannel, and denim were in vogue and sneakers had graduated to streetwear status. Today, they’re offered in virtually every material: leather, mesh, canvas. Ahead of the autumn transition, we’ve taken stock of this year’s hottest releases. Scroll on to see our favourite sneakers for men.

Prada Montecarlo Sneaker

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First introduced in 2005, the Prada Montecarlo Sneaker returns to the fray with three charming colourways. Crafted to reflect the classic silhouette of a driving shoe, the updated Montecarlo men’s sneakers are plush and pliable, emerging in expressive shades of deep brown and navy. Meanwhile, elegant top stitching emphasizes a sleek silhouette. Thanks to their deconstructed soles, these suede leather sneakers adapt with every step. ($1,520)

Louis Vuitton Buttersoft Sneakers

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The Buttersoft Sneaker by Louis Vuitton is well on its way to becoming a staple sneaker. In fact, perhaps we should say “sneakers,” plural — the new release comes in a staggering twenty four iterations, which run the gamut from rich brown Monogram patterns to airy, sunset-inspired pastels. Initially conceived for LV’s Fall-Winter 2025 collection — a joint effort between Pharrell Williams and Nigo — the shoes officially launched on July 10, complete with a campaign starring British actor Callum Turner.

Composed of ultra-soft leather (hence the name), the LV Buttersoft Sneaker sports a subtle portrait of Pharrell Williams — dubbed the “Phriendship” silhouette — on its tongue. And, as a tribute to co-designer Nigo, there’s even a hidden lobster embossed on the back. Threading the needle, the shoes balance leather’s quiet, refined qualities with the cheeky graphics and inventive patterns we’ve come to expect from Pharrell. ($1,870)

Puma Lamelo Ball LaFrancé RNR

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Designed in collaboration with aptly-named basketball star LaMelo Ball, the LaFrancé RNR men’s sneaker nods to retro-futurism with an astro-inspired aesthetic. Reinforced rubber and textile synthesize the sportswear prowess of Puma with the daring, street-ready style of Ball’s lifestyle label, LaFrancé. A rounded toe, flat heel, and breathable upper — the latter made with 20% recycled material — offers top-notch performance with an ultra-plush feel. ($150)

Prada Collapse Re-Nylon & Suede Elasticized Sneakers

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That’s right — Prada has one more pair. Launched for Spring-Summer 2025, the Prada Collapse Sneakers are light as a feather (and about as soft, too). Fashioned from a sustainable blend of recycled nylon and soft suede leather, the Collapse sneakers enhanced with elastic materials; the sides stretch and snap, creating a custom fit. These kicks are as close as menswear gets to comfort of a ballet flat. Cast in a simple, two-tone colourway, the Collapse sneaker offer a streamlined take on footwear. ($1,350)

New Balance 530

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Another updated classic? The New Balance 530 Sneakers. Once hailed as the ultimate dad shoe maker (derogatory), New Balance has launched a successful rebrand. The signature chunky sneakers have turned into a symbol of style, stocking the shelves (and site) of Roots Canada. Retro-inspired colour palettes — like the eye-catching “Timberwolf/Linen,” a blend of creamy papyrus, graphite, and salmon hues — maximize versatility. The vintage design is just as comfortably worn with running gear as it is with jeans or slacks. Plus, the ABZORB midsole holds up under pressure, ensuring longevity down the road. ($130)