In the third iteration of Nice Picks, the team here at Nice Kicks has yet again delivered our choices for this week’s top sneaker releases. From in-line sneakers to collaborations, this week’s top releases include a retro of a former NBA MVP winner, a Super Bowl sneaker, and a collaboration between two well known brands. Without any further ado, take a look at our selection and get ready to mark your calendars.
6. adidas Ultra Boost 21
Colorway: Vivid Red/Vivid Red-Core Black
Style #: FZ1922
Release Date: February 4, 2021
Price: $180
The adidas Ultra Boost has become the standard for footwear comfort, providing that cloud-like sensation with every step taken. Splashed with “Vivid Red,” the pair stands out among the crowd as a high-level performance and street-style sneaker. Man, if this was 2014… (hint: what sneaker released in 2014 and is one of the most revered sneakers ever?)
5. adidas D Rose 1
Colorway: Scarlet/Cloud White/Core Black
Style #: G57744
Release Date: February 1, 2021
Price: $130
Derrick Rose was and is still a Chicago icon. The former Bulls player took over the league by storm, using his explosive playing style and lethal scoring ability to become the youngest player to ever win a MVP award. Paying homage to his career in Chicago, the NBA icon’s first sneaker with adidas is returning. This piece of sneaker history should definitely be on the calendar of all hoop lovers.
4. Air Jordan 12 Low SE “Super Bowl LV”
Colorway: Black/Metallic Gold-Varsity Red
Style #: DC1059-001
Release Date: February 6, 2021
Price: $190
The “Super Bowl LV” showdown between Tom Brady’s Bucs and Patrick Mahomes’ Chiefs is the essence of old-school vs new school, as the all-time great takes on the rising star. Commemorating the matchup, the Air Jordan 12 Low appears in a classic Black and Red color blocking with sophisticated dashes of Gold. I’ll take this pair over last year’s Air Jordan 10 “Super Bowl LIV.”
3. New Balance 550 “Shadow”
Colorway: TBA
Style #: BB550SR1
Release Date: February 1, 2020
Price: $110
New Balance has ascended to the top of then sneaker chain, in large part due to their innovative retro silhouettes. Along with then 992, the 550 made waves with the help of popular fashion brand Aime Leon Dore. In another perfectly constructed color blocking, the infamous “Shadow” pallet has taken hold of the multi-material upper. I’m certainly a fan of the brand’s recent efforts, and this pair is no exception.
2. Air Jordan 5 Retro “Anthracite”
Colorway: Anthracite/Wolf Grey-Clear-Black
Style #: DB0731-001
Release Date: February 6, 2021
Price: $190
A personal favorite, the Air Jordan 5’s fighter jet shape has always appealed to me. Not only does this “Anthracite” colorway add to the sneaker’s silhouette, but also is reminiscent of the Off-White x Air Jordan 5 “Black.” For those that missed out on the highly-coveted pair, this is an excellent alternative.
1. AMBUSH x Nike Dunk High “Cosmic Fuchsia”
Colorway: Cosmic Fuchsia/Lethal Pink
Style #: CU7544-600
Release Date: February 4, 2021
Price: $180
After their first drop late last year, Japanese label AMBUSH and Nike have returned with their second Nike Dunk High. Dressed in two tones of Pink, the signature Nike model includes an elongated Swoosh along with the “AMBUSH” branding on the heel. Easily comparable to the “Black/White” model, this monochromatic pair is sure to catch the attention of everyone walking by. The combination of colors, shape, collaborative effort, and details make this sneaker my favorite release of the week.
