Controversy aside, Kanye West’s Yeezy sneakers enjoy a lot of fame and attention from sneakerheads all around the globe. There have been a number of fantastic Yeezy releases since 2009, with models being coveted for their weird “alien-like” or “futuristic” designs and unique colourways. With designs ranging from classic to avant-garde and features like Adidas’ Boost technology for maximum comfort, Yeezys have become a symbol of popular culture and fashion.
When it comes to Yeezy sneakers, there are certain factors that we look at when evaluating the best models of all time. Factors such as design, comfort, cultural significance, and innovation come into play. This list showcases the absolute best Yeezy sneakers ever released, chosen based on factors such as hype, innovation, popularity, and overall performance. Let’s take a look at which Yeezys come out on top!
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10. adidas Yeezy 350 V2 (2021)
The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 is a must-have sneaker for any fan of the brand.
This streetwear staple, which features an upper composed of re-engineered Primeknit, has subtle detailing and unique features that set this model apart from other Yeezys, has captured the attention of both sneakerheads and the mainstream alike due to its eye-catching, fashionable design and sold-out status (it sells out very fast!).
Originally released in 2016 with the classic “Beluga” colourway, it also boasts rib-like moulds for extra cushioning underneath its Boost midsole. There have been countless other variations that have appeared over the years – from “SPLY 350” variants to ultra-limited reflective editions. Some of these iterations are much sought after, including favourites like the “Core Black/Red”, “Static Black Reflective”, “Beluga Yeezy”, and “Zebra Yeezy.
9. adidas Yeezy Boost 700
The adidas Yeezy Boost 700, a tech-forward sneaker designed by Kanye West and adidas, was first revealed in 2017 at the Yeezy Season 5 fashion show.
On August 12th of that year, it was released in limited quantities exclusively on the Yeezy Supply online store at a relatively steep price of $300.
As Kanye’s initial foray into chunkier “dad shoe” silhouettes, its arrival spurred a wave of confusion regarding its acquired taste look with multiple layers and bulky aesthetic. But as time passed and it was restocked one year later, on September 15th, 2018, the Yeezy Boost 700 saw an unexpected surge in popularity among sneakerheads all over the world.
8. Adidas Yeezy 700 V3
The Adidas Yeezy 700 V3 was originally previewed when Kanye posted a photo of it on Twitter in 2018 and was then featured in Forbes magazine and on a video where Kanye gifted a pair to DJ Khaled. Unlike previous models in the series, it does not feature any BOOST cushioning.
The shoe eventually saw its official release in December, making it highly sought-after since then and remaining so into 2021 and 2022, with more colourful styles being unveiled along the way.
7. Adidas Yeezy Foam Runner
The Adidas Yeezy Foam Runner first debuted in 2019, worn by Ye’s daughter, North West. Featuring an alienesque design with no laces or moving parts, the chunky midsole is reminiscent of the Yeezy 700.
In addition to its stylish look, it also features sustainable materials like algae and EVA foam. Its official release happened on June 26th, 2020, through a surprise drop exclusively on Yeezy Supply at a retail price of $75 USD, which quickly sold out. Subsequent colourways have since been previewed by Kanye’s fashion show and celebrity seeding.
Personally, these are a favourite. I wear them around the house and going out. They’re just incredibly comfortable for all day wear. And while they might look like something from a sci-fi film, I’ve never had anyone laugh at me in public. Because, honestly, they are still stylish, no matter how weird they may look. As far as comfort goes, they’re some of the most airy sneakers I have.
6. adidas Yeezy Boost 350
The Adidas Yeezy 350 Boost is a low-top sneaker that has taken the world by storm. This fashionable shoe first debuted in 2015 at YEEZY Season, and since then has seen a number of new colourways released over the years. Its retail price is set at $200 for the original and $220 for the updated V2 model. Since 2016, the Yeezy Boost 350 V2 has grown in popularity, with several shoes already confirmed for 2020.
5. Adidas Yeezy 380
The adidas Yeezy 380 has a familiar Primeknit upper with a more sock-like fit around the ankle as well as an abstract print. It also features a semi-translucent midsole shell compared to its predecessor, the Yeezy 350 v2, and has a traditional herringbone traction pattern on the outsole that reveals Boost cushioning.
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4. Adidas Yeezy Boost 700 “Wave Runner”
Although its chunky design was at first met with controversy within the sneaker community, the “Wave Runner”, revealed to the public during Kanye West’s Yeezy Season 5 fashion show in February 2017, quickly gained traction and restocked one year after its initial launch. Since then, it has received several restocks and maintains high resell values among various collectors.
3. Adidas Yeezy QNTM
Adidas Yeezy QNTM is a combination of performance and lifestyle shoe design. It made its debut during All-Star Weekend in Chicago, where it was given away to those who traded their kicks in. With either plastic overlays or without, the silhouette of the shoes mirrors traditional basketball shoes but with an elevated look.
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2. Adidas Yeezy 450
The adidas Yeezy 450 was first teased by Mr West in July 2018 and officially released on March 4th, 2021, as a YEEZY SUPPLY exclusive.
Featuring a sock-like Primeknit upper and distinctive single-piece tooling extending up to the collar via its teeth-reminiscent cage, the shoe’s bottom half is modified by Steven Smith, The Godfather of Dad Shoes. Its sole unit may contain algae makeup similar to that of the divisive Yeezy Foam Runner; cushioning is likely made of EVA foam rather than BOOST.
The “Cloud White” colourway was the first to be released, but more creative colourways followed.
Again, these might look incredibly weird, but they are great on foot. I wear these out all the time. They are comfortable for all-day wear. I often find myself sliding into the Yeezy 450 when I’m looking for something incredibly comfortable. It’s there for a relaxed look.
1. Adidas Yeezy 500
The Yeezy 500, released in 2018 at a retail price of $200 USD, is still one of the most sought-after shoes in the Adidas product line. Rather than with Primeknit like other Yeezy models, it features an upper composed of luxurious suede materials, mesh and cushioning adiPrene foam. Since its release, the shoe has come out in various palettes ranging from neutral colours to more vibrant tones.
While I own two pairs of these, I try to wear them on special occasions only. After all, once these are gone, they might be gone forever. We might never be able to buy Yeezy 500s again. That’s why I cherish my pair. They are comfortable and practical, making them one of the best Yeezys of all time.
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Honourable Mention: adidas Yeezy Slide
adidas Yeezy Slides feature a slip-on design and simple construction for an ultra-minimalistic look. Released in December 2019, these shoes have been released in a few tonal colourways such as “Desert Sand”, “Bone”, “Resin”, “Soot”, and “Core”.
Prices for adult sizes are set at $55 USD; meanwhile, kid and toddler sizes will arrive at $45 USD and $35 USD, respectively. Unlike other lounge-ready shoes from adidas or Pharrell Williams’ Chancletas Hu, the Yeezy Slides do not include any BOOST cushioning technology. That said, they remain the most well-known Yeezys of all time. And they are a personal favourite. I wear these just about every day. I own them in multiple colours, too. If you’re looking for a better slide, you probably won’t find one. Everyone has tried their best to mimic or copy Kanye’s design for this. But, in my opinion, the Yeezy Slides always come out on top.
If you can, grab a pair of Yeezys when they drop in March, 2024. You might not get another chance.
Tell us, what do you think are the best Yeezy sneakers of all time?
