It’s 2024, and Kanye West (now known simply as Ye) has declared the Yeezy Boost 350 corny in a rant he posted on social media. This month, Adidas released a Steel Grey Yeezy Boost 350 v2 sneaker – which, according to Ye, isn’t an official Yeezy colourway. “Anybody who loves Ye would not buy these fake Yeezys,” he wrote. “I never made these colourways. I’m not getting paid off of them, and adidas is suing me.” While the Steel Grey release might not be everyone’s favourite, it might be a good time to look back at the best Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 v2 colourways of all time. You know, the officials.
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 History
The Yeezy Boost 350 v2 sneakers have unquestionably achieved a global fervour, captivating not only avid sneaker enthusiasts but also those with a keen eye for fashion. Forged through the collaboration of Adidas and Kanye West (Ye), these emblematic footwear marvels have transcended their origins, ascending to the status of a bona fide cultural phenomenon. Their inimitable aesthetic, unyielding comfort, and scarcity-driven releases have indubitably solidified the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 sneakers as an epitome of desirability and exclusivity in the sneaker world. In this article, we will explore the best Yeezy Boost 350 v2 sneakers, delving into their unique features and highlighting why they continue to captivate sneakerheads worldwide.
Kanye West entered a professional relationship with Adidas in 2013, officially announced on the 3rd of December, which marked a turning point for the brand and the rapper. While the partnership created many successful sneakers, the Yeezy Boost 350 is widely considered one of their most successful silhouettes, with the first-ever colourway for the range, “Turtle Dove”, which saw its debut on the 27th of June 2015.
With the release at New York Fashion Week, the sneakers redefined style forever, and the sock-like sneaker trend was born. The v2 of the sneaker range simply built on the iconic range, taking everything that worked for the Yeezy Boost 350 and adding new features to improve those that didn’t work.
The first Yeezy Boost 350 v2 was the “Beluga” colourway, presented at the Yeezy Season 3 presentation at Madison Square, worn by models at the fashion show/listening party for Ye’s “Life of Pablo” album.
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Yeezy Boost 350 v2 Design
The design of the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 took all the elements that worked for its predecessor and improved them. In addition, the sneaker took on a different design, introducing a new re-engineered PrimeKnit for a more premium feel that really hugs your foot. The upper often includes a streak sporting “SPLY-350”, an element that became an iconic part of the 350 v2 aesthetic. The lacing system was much like the previous version, using round laces instead of the flat ones you might see in other sneakers. The PrimeKnit upper meets the TPU sides and a semi-translucent rubber outsole that works for an impressive look and traction. Adidas and Ye also did away with the painted soles of the Boost 350 v1 to keep the sneakers looking newer for longer. The last added touch to the design is that the Yeezy Boost 350v2 took the Boost technology that adidas used on the entire midsole, making it a little thicker and making it one of the most comfortable sneakers at the time.
1. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Bred”
Almost every sneaker brand seems to have its own interpretation of “Bred”, which may be simplistic. Still, the simplicity adds a level of sophistication.
The all-black colourway dominates the sneaker, from the PrimeKnit upper to the laces and even the signature full-length Boost cushioning for ultimate comfort and the outsole. The “red” part of “Bred” comes in with the laser red “SPLY-350” on the lateral side, as well as the stripe of red on the otherwise black canvas heel tab.
You will find these sneakers at the top of many “Best Yeezy Boost 350v2” lists because they are universally considered one of the most iconic looks in the line. They have iconic branding, and you can’t go wrong with all-black. Yeezy fans love them.
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2. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 CMPCT “Slate Red”
The “Bred” colourway is as iconic as it is. The only thing keeping these awesome “Slate Red” CMPCT sneakers from the top spot is that these are possibly one of the most unique colourways for the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 out there.
The sock-like top part of the upper gives these PrimeKnit sneakers an excellent and comfortable fit, while the patterning on the upper of the Slate Red is one of the most unique. The sneakers, of course, come complete with their large heel collar and signature v2 lacing system, which are both in a slate red without any hint of black, unlike the rest of the sneakers. The rest of the knit upper has hints of black in exciting details, and notably, both the usual mesh stripe on the lateral side panels and the “SPLY-350” branding are missing from this pair.
To top it all off, they have the signature thick midsole with the Boost technology running all throughout it, with a semi-translucent red that fades to hints of blackish-red on the edges. Again, this is a stunning pair of sneakers.
3. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Zyon”
Adidas and Ye love their monochromatic colourways in the Yeezy line, pumping out black-and-whites and all-black sneakers. Still, this one played around with some muted browns instead, notably missing the “SPLY-350” branding. Like the beloved “Static” colourway, the “Zyon” switches up its mesh side stripe with a dark brown and uses mocha tones throughout the sneakers instead of grey.
These sneakers boast a fully translucent Boost midsole with a yellowed semi-translucent outsole to complement the colourway and give the whole sneaker a slightly retro feel while still looking brand new.
4. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Light”
Don’t let the simplistic design of these white-looking sneakers fool you; they are hiding a UV-sensitive secret. At first glance, the sneakers resemble a triple white colourway, with hints of off-white on the canvas heel tab and the semi-translucent outsole pulling the look together. However, that isn’t all there is to these sneakers. When exposed to UV light (whether artificial or just the sun), the white primeknit upper changes to a light pink, while the characteristic mesh stripe changes to a dark yellow. These sneakers are for you if you want simple sneakers with a hidden secret.
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5. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Glow”
Speaking of sneakers with light sensitivity, it wouldn’t be a comprehensive list if we didn’t add the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Glow”. But, again, the name is not a tease; these sneakers do, in fact, glow in the dark. Unlike most brands, which will add a glow-in-the-dark element to the outsole, the entire sneaker is made up of glow-in-the-dark material, from the PrimeKnit upper to the laces to the Bosot-tech outsole, the entire sneaker glows in the dark.
6. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Yecheil”
Combining various colours and more than you will usually see on a pair of Yeezy Boost 350 v2s, these sneakers include blue, red, yellow, and black, all on the PrimeKnit upper of the sneaker. Separated by the characteristic black mesh stripe down the lateral side, these sneakers also hide a light-sensitive secret despite appearing pretty standard, with black complementing the colours. The “Yecheil” colourway is one of many that comes in both regular and reflective options, and considering Ye literally had a pair of his sneakers banned from the NBA courts for being too reflective, we shouldn’t be surprised that he loves sprinkling in the light-sensitive technology wherever he can.
7. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Carbon”
Yet another pair that is well-loved for its simplicity, the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Carbon” is another one similar to the “Zyon”, just darker. The colourway combines grey and black tones with a dark side stripe to create a sophisticated monochromatic look offset by the off-white translucent boost midsole and outsole. With black rope laces to top off the look, these sneakers are effortlessly stylish and the perfect sneaker for any look and activity.
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8. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Onyx”
What do I always say? You can’t go wrong with black. These sophisticated all-black sneakers create a stunning silhouette; combined with the characteristic Boost midsole, this is a stunning and sleek look. Surprisingly, it took them as long as 2022 to release a genuinely onyx-black pair of sneakers, considering their all-black silhouettes are a universal favourite.
9. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Pirate Black”
You might feel like you see double here, but I assure you you aren’t. These aren’t just slightly lighter copies of the “Onyx” colourway; these could be considered predecessors, mainly because they are a v2 redo of the OG colourway released in 2015. Besides, they aren’t strictly all black either; with their red stripe borrowed from the “Bred” colourway and the reflective specifics on the laces, these sneakers combine some of the elements of other beloved black colourways for yet another sophisticated look. Finished off with the black non-translucent Boost-midsole and matching outsole, you can’t go wrong with a black silhouette.
10. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Beluga”
It would be unfaithful to not include the pair of sneakers that was considered the start of this line, so here it is. One of the most memorable sneakers, these kicks are the foundation of an empire that has only grown stronger in the following years. The colourway for these iconic sneakers is Steeple Grey or Beluga Grey, which can be seen dominating the entire sneaker, aside from the iconic Solar Red stripe. Complete with the “SPLY-350” branding, the semi-translucent Boost-tech midsole, and the matching outsole. You don’t start an empire without looking this good.
11. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Zebra”
Borrowing its name, colour scheme and patterning from the native African Zebra, the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Zebra” is probably one of the most renowned colourways besides the “Beluga” and “Bred”. The simplistic colour theme works perfectly with the marbled black and white PrimeKnit upper’s design, which perfectly resembles the stripes of its namesake. Completed by the white lateral side stripe with the iconic “SPLY-350”, matching white rope laces, and a translucent white Boost midsole, you can see why this is a classic pair of sneakers.
12. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Tail Light”
Moving away from our all-black silhouettes into a softer, mostly all-grey pair, we have the Yeezy Boost 350 v 2 “Tail Light”, giving a soft but concrete-like feel. The exciting part of these sneakers is that the mesh that usually characterises these sneakers is replaced with a translucent side stripe that reveals a hint of bright orange leading up to the heel, where the bright orange is on full display with the canvas heel tab. We have a transparent boost sole, completing the look and matching the transparent stripe. While there is nothing all that feminine about these sneakers, they give a soft and delicate feel with their intricate but quickly missed details, setting them apart from many other sneakers.
13. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Cinder”
If you are looking for Cinderella’s dainty slippers, this might not be the pair for you, but if you are looking for the perfect charcoal colourway, it definitely is. The charcoal-coloured PrimeKnit upper is complemented by a darker tonal stripe that matches the canvas heel tab on the back. In contrast, the laces match the sooty black of the upper. The rubber of the boost-tech outsole is a slate-ish grey. In contrast, the outsole is dark gold, adding a bit of intrigue to these otherwise sleek and monochromatic sneakers.
14. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Core Black Copper”
Unlike the other black silhouettes on this list, this pair of Yeezy Boost 350 v2s wear their name proudly, with a prominent copper lateral stripe sporting the iconic “SPLY-350” branding. Other than that brilliant pop of colour, the pitch-black PrimeKnit upper is matched to its rope laces, and the ever-so-slightly lighter Boost-tech midsole is matched with the outsole, giving these sneakers an all-around uniform look.
15. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Dazzling Blue”
If you are getting a little bored of the black colourways, don’t worry; this is the last one. Much like the sneakers before, you can easily see where they got their namesake. Starting with the pitch-black PrimeKnit upper construction that matches the laces, we can see the brilliant and dazzling sapphire-like blue adorning the sneakers for their lateral stripe, showcasing the “SPLY-350” branding.
What sets these sneakers apart from the other black pairs on this list is the semi-translucent midsole that gives a dark-glass-like feel, perfectly complementing the sapphire tinge of blue. This is a classic pair of Yeezy Boost 350 v2 sneakers despite missing the usual heel tab.
16. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Ash Pearl”
Moving away from the darker, albeit more popular, silhouettes, we get this two-tone masterpiece. With a mix of cream and tan on the top half of the PrimeKnit upper, separated by a darker tan mesh stripe, the bottom half of the upper is a black and white knit. With a white gum Boost midsole and a tan semi-translucent outsole, these sneakers provide a cohesive look to neutral colour lovers.
17. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Sand Taupe”
Speaking of neutrals, nobody loves neutral colours like Ye, with many of his classic Yeezy sneakers sporting some form of tan, taupe, or clay. The Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Sand Taupe” is a prime example. Sporting three complementing shades of sandy taupe, graduating from brightest to most muted, the upper and lower parts of the PrimeKnit upper are separated by a translucent mesh strip with the brighter taupe visible in the back of the stripe. The tan laces match the bottom half of the upper, and the semi-translucent tan boost midsole is complemented by the darkest part of the sneakers, the dark tan semi-translucent outsole.
18. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Mono Clay”
Most sneakerheads probably wouldn’t consider these sneakers very neutral in the colourway, thanks to their orange hue. Still, a brighter taupe is an excellent way to describe it. The colourway is confusing to the eye; not really bright, but also not muted. Not really pink, but also not beige, taupe, tan or orange, so thank goodness the team at Adidas and Yeezy managed to come up with clay for the name. These sneakers are incredibly uniform in construction, not really sporting the usual knit pattern that we associate with the Yeezy Boost 350 v2, but still sporting the same adaptive technology. The sneaker is almost entirely translucent, and you can see a stunning “skeleton” construction underneath the breathable mesh. Completed with the standard Boost technology semi-translucent midsole, these sneakers have an almost alien feel that anyone would be lucky to own.
19. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Bone”
Making our way into our subtle and classic category, we have the subtle ivory or “Bone” colourway for the Yeezy Boost 350 v2, with the colour for the namesake dominating the entire sneaker, not just the upper. The usual “SPLY-350” branding is missing from this pair. Still, we get to see the mesh side stripe in its place, which goes all the way back to meet the ivory-coloured canvas heel tab and even gives us a peek into the exciting construction of the sneaker itself. The thick rope laces, sock liner and semi-translucent ribbed midsole work together for this ivory ensemble. It’s incredible that for the “Bone” colourway, we also get a peek at the skeleton of the sneakers.
20. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Cream/Triple White”
Again, you might think you are seeing double, but with the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 “Cream/Triple White”, it’s all in the small details. Instead of an utterly ivory tone, with this one, we get a touch of cream to add to the otherwise entirely white sneaker. We don’t see the translucent mesh with this pair, so if you liked the previous pair but the whole see-through look wasn’t for you, this is your pair. The cream white also comes with the Boost sole, complemented by the semi-translucent outsole, as usual, giving you a stunning pair of sneakers and an intense fear of mud while wearing these.
While the differences may be subtle, the Yeezy Boost 350 v2 sneakers have many variants of colourways so that you can find the perfect pair to suit your style and enjoy. Be warned, though, because while you can get some of these sneakers at retail price, you might have to look at resale markets for others.
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What do you think are the best Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 v2 sneakers of all time?
