The Retro Recap: ‘The Week In Sneaks’ - July 13 -19
Setting the Scene
Another week in the books, and the sneaker game continues to keep us on our toes. From limited drops to surprise Ws and fall-ready pickups, this past week delivered a nice mix of nostalgia, exclusivity, and sleeper gems. Whether you were chasing the bold Kobe VI ‘Total Orange’ or stacking classics for the upcoming season, there was something for everybody. Let’s break it all down in Episode 2 of The Retro Recap.
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Notable Sneaker Releases This Week
Air Max 95 ‘Black Border’
Dropped on 7/14 at 10:30 AM CST via Slam-Jam, this was a beautiful summer-ready colorway—but nearly impossible to grab. With few retailers carrying the release, accessibility was an issue, but the sleek execution and details made this one a standout for those who managed to secure a pair.
Nike Air DT 92 Proto ‘Black’
This one might’ve flown under the radar, but I think it’s the better colorway of the DT 92 releases so far. Unfortunately, it was locked behind exclusive access for Atlanta-area residents. The clean black upper paired with that aggressive Swoosh branding gives off major attitude.
Wmns Air Jordan 3 ‘Starfish’
Quietly solid. While it didn’t make as much noise as other Jordan drops this week, the orange hits give it just enough personality for summer rotations.
Kobe VI Protro ‘Total Orange’
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Now this was a surprise. A bold, high-energy colorway that turns heads—perfect for hoopers or anyone who likes to stand out. Based on what I saw online, this wasn’t as limited as we all expected. Lots of Ws to go around on release day, which is always good to see for fans of the line.
Air Jordan 8 ‘Aqua’
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A returning legend. This pair really brings out the 90s energy with those pop colors. It’s a bit bulkier than I typically wear during summer, but come fall or winter with a pair of pants? Yeah, it’ll get some solid rotation. Might circle back and grab these later.
My Featured Pickup This Week:
Nike Air Max TL 2.5 ‘Varsity Maize’
Retail Price: $180
Paid: $167
Initial Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
This Y2K retro runner is a hidden gem. A mix of mesh, synthetic leather, and metallic overlays gives it serious early-2000s appeal. But don’t let the throwback design fool you, this pair is super comfortable thanks to the full-length Air unit. What’s better? They’re still pretty accessible and often come in under retail. Watch/Read The Full Review
Other Pickups This Week
Nike Air Force 1 ‘Flax’
Where: Footlocker.com
Thoughts: Yeah, we’re in the middle of summer, but this pair is a must-have once the leaves start falling. A timeless fall staple.
Nike Air Initiator
Where: Nike.com
Thoughts: Affordable, classic, and criminally underrated. A go-to option for simple fits during the cooler months.
Nike Air Trainer 3 ‘USA’
Where: Goat.com
Thoughts: I had to double back and grab these. My old Trainer 1s were cooked, and this colorway brings that patriotic flair. Still feels like a smart pickup even five years after its original release.
New Balance 998 ‘Grey Day’
Where: New Balance Factory Store
Price: $60.61 after tax
Thoughts: A crazy steal. Grey is always a fall/winter go-to and the 998 silhouette rarely disappoints. Clean, comfy, and essential.
Sneaker News Spotlight
He Got Game Air Jordan 13 Returning In 2026
This one’s got that old-school drip—you may remember the AJ13 “He Got Game” from Denzel Washington’s iconic role in Spike Lee’s ‘98 film. After rumors that it was scrapped, Jordan Brand officially confirmed that the original white/black/true red colorway is dropping next summer—around April to May 2026—with a retail price set around $210
Nigel Sylvester is back at it again. After the success of his “Bike Air” Jordan 4 collab earlier this year, it looks like we’re getting a follow-up in Summer 2026—and this one might be even better. The upcoming pair is rumored to feature a clean sail upper, paired with deep cinnabar hits across the midsole, mudguard, and that signature mini Swoosh by the toe.
It’s said to draw inspiration from the classic “Fire Red” colorway, but with that aged, lifestyle twist Nigel does so well. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Sylvester collab without some storytelling—expect details like “Jordan Biking Co.” and nods to his BMX roots throughout the design. If you missed out on the first pair, this is your chance to grab something special that blends Jordan heritage with modern style and movement culture. Definitely one to keep on your radar.
Community Spotlight
Every week, I like to show love to people in the community who keep the energy going. This time, we’re highlighting two loyal supporters:
@mhnish (Instagram)
Mark consistently likes, comments, and watches the content—true day-one energy.
@iamjohnatha_ramos (Instagram)
Jonathan always engages and supports the movement. Salute to both of you!
Want to be featured in a future episode? Keep showing love and tagging us!
What’s Dropping Next Week?
We’ve got some heat lined up for the week ahead. Here’s what’s on the radar:
Here’s a look at what’s dropping next week and what’s caught my eye:
A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 5 ‘Black Collective’
Release Date: July 25
Thoughts: Easily one of the best collabs of the year. The merch is fire too—shoutout to the use of cotton from Black farmers. That detail alone makes this drop special.
Air Jordan 4 ‘Rare Air’
Release Date: July 26
Thoughts: A clean execution that should fly off shelves. Raffles are open at most major retailers, so get on it if you’re interested.
Arts-Rec x Nike SB ‘For Recreational Use’ Pack
Release Date: July 22
Thoughts: Super creative collab that uses colors, textures, and patterns in a smart way. I’m especially interested in how the SB Trainer 1 compares to the standard version.
Nike Air Force 1 ‘NY vs NY’
Release Date: July 22
Thoughts: This pair is straight heat. The iridescent swoosh and metallic lace dubrae are subtle flexes. Based on past NY vs NY drops, don’t sleep—these will go fast on SNKRS.
Wrapping Things Up On The Week
All in all, a solid week with a nice balance of storytelling, sneaker evolution, and low-key winners. Personally, I’m still thinking about that Marsh Green 992—just the kind of subtle flex I like. And big props to A Ma Maniére for continuing to lead with both style and substance.
Question of the Week:
Which release from this week (or next) are you most excited about? Hit the comments and let me know!
Drop a comment or hit us up on IG—we want to hear from you.
Until next time, stay humble and proceed.
