It’s almost time for James Gunn’s Superman adventures to begin, and I, for one, could not be more thrilled. Sure, I’m still bummed about the loss of Henry Cavill as the man in red, yellow, and blue, but I’d rather have some version of the hero on the big screen than none at all. Plus, I’ll admit that this new interpretation looks like it could be a pleasant return to everything we love about the hero. Not to mention, it may bring a few new official Superman sneaker collaborations with it. But for now, we’re getting fans psyched for the movie’s premiere in the best way we know how: a list of the most beautiful Superman sneakers from years past.
Doernbecher x Air Jordan 4 Retro “Superman”
This Jordan 4 “Doernbecher” sneaker is one of the few Nike/Jordan Brand releases that you’ll see rocking Supes iconic “S” logo on the tongue–if not the only one. The design of the shoe was created by a young Isaiah Scott as part of the Swoosh Label’s Doernbecher Freestyle programme, which allows young patients at the Children’s Hospital to tell their stories through sneaker design. This particular pair has an amazing backstory and a unique Superman-inspired look that has made it one of the most coveted AJ4 colourways to date.
DC Comics x PUMA Suede “Superman”
In 2023, PUMA joined forces with DC to drop a special edition Suede sneaker to celebrate the Diamond Anniversary of the Man of Steel’s debut in comics. The design is kitted out in blue suede with red eyestays, a yellow collar, and a Superman appliqué on the tongue for a classic take on the character’s superhero suit. But our favourite touches may just be the removable Formstrip and Daily Planet-inspired hang tag that reference his Clark Kent alter ego.
DC Comics x PUMA Suede “Superman Black Suit”
While Henry Cavill’s time as Superman may be over, we’ll always have these black PUMA Suede sneakers to remember him by. The kicks are inspired by his alternate black suit from Zack Snyder’s Justice League and have a black suede upper and matching Formstrip inspired by the textured material used in the costume’s design. The pair also has Jen Bartel’s artwork decorating the shoe insert, which is another nice touch.
DC COMICS x BAPE BAPESTA “Superman”
In 2007, DC Comics and Bathing Ape released a pack of ultra-shiny Bapestas inspired by fan-favourite DC heroes. Superman’s design came with blue patent leather uppers accented with red and yellow hues to complement the hero’s classic look. Plus, the shoes came in blister pack action figure-style packaging, which added to the overall playful feel of this release.
Shoe Palace x Reebok Shaq Attaq
It’s always exciting to see real-life basketball ‘heroes’ cover their signature sneakers in superhero-inspired hues. It’s even more exciting when said shoes are officially released. In 2018, Shaquille O’Neal and Reebok collaborated with Shoe Palace to drop a Superman iteration of the former baller’s famous Shaq Attaq shoes. Although the style is mostly white, there are touches of blue and red throughout, and the tongue pump features Supes’ trademark logo front and centre.
DC Comics x Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Denim High “Superman”
You’d be surprised at just how many Converse designs actually feature the Man of Steel. That said, our favourite of the lot has to be the limited-edition navy Chuck Taylors that the brand cooked up in 2012. Sure, the design is simple, but the S-Shield and comic book strip graphics on the inner lining are really all that is needed for them to stand out.
Jordan Tatum 3 “Superman”
The NBA tunnel walk has become somewhat of a runway for players to show off their unique style, and Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum took full advantage of his time to shine during Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs this year (2025). The baller had custom Superman Tatum 3 sneakers, designed by sneaker artist Mache Customs, specifically for the occasion. While these are unlikely ever to be available to sneakerheads, we can still dream.
Superman x Nike SB Dunk Low
Thomas Bulman and his team at Bull Airs created the perfect pair of custom kicks for the Big Red S. The sneakers sport a matte blue base, shiny red patent leather overlays, and their own small red cape attached to the heel. Although these were a one-of-a-kind commission from 2023, they are definitely a great benchmark for future Superman designs.
Superman x Nike Dunk Low
Sneaker artist Dariyn Enriquez added his own touch to the Superman theme, painting the Nike Dunk Low’s base in various shades of blue to complement the hero’s more traditional colour scheme. Also included in the design is a splash of flesh at the tongue to represent the hero himself and not just his attire. Thankfully, these kicks are available for commission.
“Superman” Air Jordan 1
We had to end off our list with these incredible Jordan 1 sneakers designed by our own Sneaker Fortress team. The design offers the standard blue, red, and yellow colour palette, but throws in 3D Kryptonite-esque Swooshes for added flair.
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