As a fully-committed trainer obsessive, I treat spotting the next big sneaker shift almost like a sport. It's the one fashion titbit I want to be in on, whether it's following trend researchers on social media for their take or analysing the runways, and nowhere feeds this obsession quite like London. Here, a single silhouette can go from insider favourite to citywide fixation faster than you can refresh your saved folder. Take the Adidas Sambas for example; one minute you couldn't walk five steps in Hackney without seeing a pair, the next Rishi Sunak wears them in an interview and sales plummet, with London's fashion crowd quickly moving on to alternative styles like the Adidas Tokyo.
Because in London, trainer trends aren't just trends; they're tiny cultural moments. You see them forming on pavements, in coffee queues, outside fashion shows, and on the feet of people who somehow always know what's coming before the rest of us catch up. And right now, those early signs are pointing in a new direction.
So if you're wondering what's next for 2026, trust me, I've been paying attention.
5 London Trainer Trends Set to Dominate 2026:
1. Satin
Style Notes: One emerging shift for 2026 is the rise of the satin trainer; a softer, more polished alternative to the technical pairs that have dominated recent seasons. London's style set is already embracing the glossy finish thanks to the Miu Miu Plumes. An extension of the balletcore trend, they are being worn with everything from relaxed denim to tailoring. With their subtle shine and luxe feel, they offer a romantic twist on sportswear that still feels modern and wearable.
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The attention to detail is * chef's kiss *
Perfect for spring.
Wales Bonner never disappoints.
The Tokyo gets an upgrade.
The perfect shade of chocolate brown.
2. Gel
Style Notes: The gel trainer trend has been building for a while, and it's impossible to talk about it without talking about ASICS. The brand has incorporated the term 'gel' into many of its model names, making it synonymous with that glue-like aesthetic. But the trend goes beyond ASICS alone. Across performance trainers, gel soles, whether translucent or opague with a high-shine finish, are being highlighted as a design feature, creating sculptural silhouettes that give this style of trainer a futuristic, almost alien-feel that the London fashion scene is embracing.
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Who said trainers can't be cute? Just add a bow.
An alternative to the all-black trainer.
A classic.
A favourite amongst the gorpcore crowd.
A high-shine alternative.
3. Suede (2.0)
Style Notes: Suede trainers are having a major moment again, tapping into 2026's growing appetite for texture and tactility in everyday footwear. Suede brings a warm, slightly retro quality to any outfit, softening the look in a way that mesh and leather just can't. Londoners are using them to add depth to tonal outfits in neutral shades, or to ground smarter pieces like indigo denim and tailoring.
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The double-lace trend is spreading like wildfire!
Add a trench coat for a tonal look.
Just add denim.
Suede doesn't have to be brown.
A rich shade of burgundy.
4. Split-Toe
Style Notes: One of the more distinctive trainer trends emerging for 2026 is the rise of split-toe silhouettes, with the Nike Air Rift leading the charge. The Rift has long been a cult favourite thanks to its tabi-inspired design and sock-like fit, but its recent resurgence shows how open Londeners are to quirky, statement-making shapes. The look feels agile, almost biomechanical, tapping into the broader appetite for footwear that appears technical and slightly unconventional. They can be given a Mary Jane appearance when paired with white socks and jeans, and add an edge to long tailored trousers.
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First there was the Tibi, now the Air Rift.
For a pop of red.
Make sure you remember your split-toe socks.
Pair with an a-line maxi skirt and suddenly these don't look so scary.
Traditional Japanese gardening gear meets sportswear.
5. Textured White
Style Notes: White trainers have earnt their place as a timeless wardrobe staple, but in 2026 they're taking on a more textural, fashion-forward identity. Rather than the ultra-clean, streamlined silhouettes that have dominated for the last few seasons, the focus is shifting towards detail. Think multiple panels, visible stitching, and chunky multi-layered soles that add depth and dimension while still bringing the freshness expected from a pair of white trainers. Keep bottoms minimal and loose, like a pair of wide-leg joggers or barrel-leg trousers.
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Chunky but sleek.
A collaboration we didn't know we needed.
Lots of texture.
These have a Simone Rocha vibe!
Designer-inspired.