Best Footwear Trends at Shanghai Fashion Week SS26
Showcasing a dichotomy between high-tech performance and delicate elegance in footwear.
Summary
- Shanghai Fashion Week showcased a dichotomy between high-tech performance and delicate elegance in footwear
- Key trends included the rugged, embellished Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS Gel-Quantum 360 VIII and other Salomon technical sneakers
- The season also saw a huge rise in the ballet aesthetic, led by the adidas x Bad Bunny Ballerina and classic loafers
Shanghai Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2026 proved that the region’s footwear trends are defined by two extremes: high-tech performance and delicate elegance. The overarching theme saw a deliberate balance where understated silhouettes were compensated by bold color, and statement shapes were rendered in refined neutrals.
The most notable presence on the streets was the technical sneaker. Headlining this trend was the Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS Gel-Quantum 360 VIII. This collaboration was a perfect microcosm of the season, fusing a rugged performance silhouette with Bahnsen’s signature feminine couture through subtle embellishments and textures. Other technical favorites included various styles from Salomon, cementing the “gorpcore” aesthetic’s hold on urban style.
The unexpected counterpoint was the rise of the ballet trend. The simple, elegant aesthetic appeared via the Nike Air Max Muse Ballet and the highly sought-after adidas x Bad Bunny Ballerina flat, indicating a major shift toward delicate, low-profile footwear. In the luxury arena, wearers chose statement pieces that reflected personal wealth over seasonal trends, such as oversized Balenciaga runners and rain boots, alongside classic Chanel sneakers. For formal looks, clean loafers grounded outfits, maintaining a sense of classic, dressed-up cool amidst the city’s experimental energy.
