FEATURE

Translated By DeepL

Fuinam’s *Monthly Atmos*, Vol. 42: The Best Sneakers of the First Half of 2026.
Monthly Atmos, July 2026.

HOUYHNHNM's "Atmos Monthly"
Vol. 42: The Best Sneakers of the First Half of 2026.

With a vast number of new sneaker models released every day, there are so many attractive options that it’s hard to know which one to choose… This monthly series is here to serve as your guide when selecting sneakers. This installment’s theme is “The Best Sneakers of the First Half of 2026.” Three experts who work on the front lines of the sneaker scene every day have each carefully selected three pairs that symbolize the first half of this year. We’ll look back on the sneaker scene of the first half of 2026, sharing their reasons for choosing these pairs, their real-world comfort, and memorable stories along the way.

[Left] Yuto Okajima: Buyer at Atmos. After working as a staff member at the Yokohama store and serving as store manager at the Omotesando store, he is currently in charge of buying.
[Center] Chiaki Fukuda: PR at Atmos. After serving as store manager at the Sendagaya location and in other roles, she is currently in charge of marketing and PR.
[Right] Takafumi Kojima: Senior Director of Product & Creative at Atmos. Oversees all operations both domestically and internationally.

"Top 3 Picks for the First Half of 2026," Selected by Buyer Yuto Okajima.

1) adidas Originals FORUM SQ W
The square toe is a fresh look.

Adidas Originals “FORUM SQ W” (My personal pair)

Okajima: This model is based on the iconic “Forum” basketball shoe from , but features a square toe. Although it was originally designed for women, its popularity has spread mainly among men, and it’s generated quite a buzz on social media. Since around last year, we’ve seen more sneaker loafers and sneakers with unique designs, and this just happened to fit right in with my mood to try out “sneakers I’ve never seen before.” I tend to pair them with black pants that are similar to slacks. It looks more put-together when styled a bit more smartly rather than with a sporty outfit. The patent leather has a nice texture, and I think this is a pair that can be naturally incorporated into men’s outfits.

2) adidas Originals PW ADISTAR JELLYFISH
Drawn to its unusual shape.

Adidas Originals “PW ADISTAR JELLYFISH” (from my personal collection)

Okajima: This is a collaboration model with Pharrell Williams, released as part of the “Adistar” lifestyle running category. As the name suggests, the design is inspired by a jellyfish, and it’s incredibly voluminous. Just like the just like the “Forum SQ,” it’s a type of shoe I’d never worn before, so I wanted to give it a try. It has many parts and the craftsmanship is quite intricate. It also has a high-end brand vibe. The price is just under 50,000 yen. It’s not cheap, but given that Pharrell was involved and the level of craftsmanship, I felt it was a purchase I could justify. It’s a pair that really lifts my spirits when I wear it.

3) ASICS SportStyle GEL-KAYANO 12.1 atmos “RADEN”
A design inspired by mother-of-pearl inlay.

ASICS Sports Style “GEL-KAYANO 12.1 atmos ”RADEN’” (My personal pair)

Okajima: The model name “RADEN” refers to “raden,” a traditional Japanese craft technique. To be honest, even within the company, the initial reaction was, “What’s raden?” But this model served as an opportunity for everyone to learn about the raden technique. I think that was really great. It sparkles depending on how the light hits it, but when you actually wear them, they’re surprisingly not too flashy. I also like that they can be worn as sophisticated black patent leather sneakers. It’s a hybrid model that combines the upper of the “GEL-KAYANO 12” upper with the sole from the “GEL-NIMBUS 17”—it’s a hybrid model. They’re also quite comfortable to wear.

INFORMATION

Atmos Customer

Phone: 050-2030-4719
https://www.atmos-tokyo.com

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