50 Game-Changing Performance Sneakers to Watch for in 2014

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With the start of the new year comes new footwear possibilities. While 2013 didn’t disappoint when it comes to marquee performance footwear releases, 2014 is expected to be even better for athletes looking to lace up in best of the best in hopes of improving their game—whether it’s on the track, court or field.

Before the year is over, there will be more new shoes on the market than you can keep track of. As it goes every year, with each passing month brands will undoubtedly roll out bigger and better footwear technology as they look to continue to shake up the performance footwear industry.

In anticipation of the long—but exciting—year ahead, we’ve compiled a list of 50 notable sneakers (that we know of so far) which every athlete should keep a keen eye out for in 2014. Keep in mind that this list probably only represent about a third of the performance footwear crop for the year. With that being said, these are 50 Game-Changing Performance Sneakers to Watch for in 2014.

RELATED: Performance Sneakers We’re Looking Forward to in April 2014
RELATED: 10 Performance Sneakers We’re Looking Forward To In January 2014
RELATED: The 10 Best Women’s Running Shoes for Beginners

2.

Brooks-PureFlow-3_1

Brooks PureFlow 3

Category: Running
Release date: January 1, 2014

There's lots to look forward to with the latest iteration of the Brooks PureFlow. For the first time the shoe’s platform has also been upgraded in addition to the upper. The PureFlow 3 is expected to have a narrower midfoot last for improved support, as well as more space in the toe box to cater to wide-footed runners.

3.

New-Balance-Fresh-Foam-9001

New Balance Fresh Foam 980

Category: Running
Release date: February 15, 2014

New Balance is slated to introduce a brand new midsole technology in 2014, starting with the flagship Fresh Foam 980 model. Different from NB's REVlite midsole (both in terms of structure and density), the Fresh Foam midsole is more plush, but it still offers excellent cushioning and energy rebound. The state-of-the-art midsole is constructed using 3-D printing technology and is all about a natural running experience.

4.

Pearl-Izumi-Road-N-0_2

Pearl Izumi EM Road N 0

Category: Running
Release date: January 1, 2014

Part of Pearl Izumi’s E:Motion collection, the EM Road N 0 is a lighter version of the EM Road N 1 neutral runner. It weighs in at around 6 ounces, and features a low-profile design for enhanced ground contact. If you've never run in Pearl Izumi before, the EM Road N 0 is a good reason to start.

5.

Reebok-Zquick-1

Reebok ZQUICK

Category: Running
Release date: February 1, 2014

Inspired by Z-rated sports car tires, and approved by pro athletes, the Reebok ZQUICK is an ultralight and versatile shoe that is expected to put Reebok back on the map in the running footwear category. Look for big things out of the ZQUICK collection as a whole. Brooks-Cascadia-9

Brooks Cascadia 9

Category: Running (trail)
Release date: February 2, 2014

The Brooks Cascadia continues to gain popularity amongst trail running enthusiasts. The latest version, the Cascadia 9, features a more streamlined design, which includes fewer overlays on the upper to go with the same rugged outsole featured on previous models. Also, the above colorway is fire. Nike-Lunar-Ballistec_9

Nike Lunar Ballistec

Category: Tennis
Release date: January 2, 2014

The Nike Lunar Ballistec certainly bears resemblance to Kevin Durant's signature basketball shoe when it comes to design, but make no mistake about it—it's a tennis shoe through and through. As its name suggests, the shoe features a Lunarlon midsole that drastically reduces the weight compared to traditional tennis shoes (which tend to be on the heavier side), all the while providing lightweight, responsive cushioning to allow players to move around the court with speed and agility. Look for Rafael Nadal to rock the Lunar Ballistec during the upcoming Australian Open. Nike-Lunar-Clayton-Golf-Shoe-2

Nike Lunar Clayton

Category: Golf
Release date: January 1, 2014

In 2014, no more will you have to choose between style and performance on the golf course. You'll get both with the Nike Lunar Clayton—a shoe that combines a classy leather shoe inspired upper with a lightweight and comfortable Lunarlon midsole for all-around versatility.

6.

sneaker-report_Brooks-Transcend-8

Brooks Transcend

Category: Running
Release date: February 1, 2014

Looking to smooth out your daily runs? Look no further than the Brooks Transcend. The shoe combines a bevy of Brooks performance tech that hone in on the uniqueness of a runner, giving them support when needed and acting as a safety net to keep the body balanced. Need we say more? Sp14_Jordan_Melo_432024_Blue_A3_large

Jordan Melo M10

Category: Basketball
Release date: January 4, 2014

Jordan Brand celebrates the 10th anniversary of Carmelo Anthony's signature shoe line by introducing the Melo M10. With his latest shoe, Melo joins Ray Allen and Derek Jeter as just the third pro athlete to have a decade worth of sneakers from Jumpman. The Melo M10 is equally as impressive. Asics-Gel-DS-Trainer19

Asics Gel DS Trainer 19

Category: Running
Release date: January 1, 2014

Asics' long-standing Gel DS Trainer line is back and better than ever in 2014. While the DS Trainer 19 retains the same platform that has made the shoe such a hit amongst elite runners, the upper on the shoe has been upgraded for improved comfort and support. Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6

Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6

Category: Running
Release date: January 1, 2014

A reduced weight and more streamlined design are just the beginning with the Gel Hyper Speed 6. For the first time, the shoe will be available in a gender-specific sizes rather than unisex for a more custom fit. Mizuno-Wave-Paradox-Running-Shoe

Mizuno Wave Paradox

Category: Running
Release date: January 1, 2014

At 10.6 ounces, the Wave Paradox is expected to be one of the lightest maximum support running shoes in Mizuno's 2014 lineup. The shoe features a new U4ic midsole for lightweight cushioning, and also comes loaded with a Fan Wave plate that helps reduce overpronation. A+ for looks as well. Nike-Kobe-9-Official-7

Nike Kobe 9 Elite

Category: Basketball
Release date: February 8, 2014

Having ditched the trademark Kobe low cut silhouette, Mamba's latest signature shoe, the Kobe 9, features a revolutionary high-top design should give ballers a lot more in the way of ankle support in 2014—something we all can benefit from, especially No. 24. Saucony-Peregrine-41

Saucony Peregrine 4.0

Category: Running (trail)
Release date: January 1, 2014

With updates both inside and out, the Peregrine 4.0 is expected to turn heads even more so than its predecessor, the 3.0—a shoe that has consistently been ranked as one of the best trail runners on the market. Along with a redesigned upper for enhanced looks and support, the 4.0 comes loaded with an updated rock plate made from nylon fibers for low weight and max protection against debris.

7.

New-Balance-1080v4

New Balance 1080v4

Category: Running
Release date: January 1, 2014

The New Balance 1080v4 is heavy on the cushioning yet light on the weight. Add an updated, clean design to the mix and you've got a real winner. Under-Armour-Nitro-Low-Speed-Cleats_1

Under Armour Nitro Low

Category: Football
Release date: April 1, 2014

As of now, the new Nitro Low speed cleats are being worn by Under Armour athletes throughout the NFL playoffs. Soon, however, the cleats will be available to players of all levels who are looking to add a little bit of speed to their game.

8.

Asics Gel Electro33

Asics Gel-Electro33

Category: Running
Release date: February 1, 2014

In 2014, Asics is set to roll out the Gel-Electro33 designed for a fully “natural” ride. Like the Gel-Excel33 before it, the Electro33 features Asics’ proprietary FluidAxis midsole, which promotes a completely fluid stride from heel-to-toe. Asics Gel Fuji Racer 3

Asics Gel-Fuji Racer 3

Category: Running (trail)
Release date: January 1, 2014

Whether it’s the Gel-Fuji Racer or the Gel-Fuji Trainer, Asics has had profound success with its trail running offerings in recent years. The Gel-Fuji Racer 3 continues that success with key upgrades in areas like the upper and outsole for even better performance on the trail. Asics Gel Solution Speed 2

Asics Gel-Solution Speed 2

Category: Tennis
Release date: January 1, 2014

A new year calls for a new tennis shoe. Enter, the Asics Gel-Solution Speed 2. An updated to the original Solution Speed, the second version of the shoe features a slightly more beefed up build, while keeping its streamlined look intact. If speed is what your looking for on the hard court, this is your shoe. Asics Gel Volleycross

Asics Gel-Volleycross Revolution Mid

Category: Volleyball
Release date: January 1, 2014

You didn't think we'd leave out the volleyball fans in 2014, did you? This year, Asics has introduced one of the most aesthetically appealing volleyball shoes to perhaps ever hit the market in the Gel-Volleycross Revolution Mid. Take a look at the image above—doesn't it make you want to go find a pick-up volleyball game? Mizuno Wave Kazan

Mizuno Wave Kazan

Category: Running (trail)
Release date: TBD

Mizuno is looking to do big things in the trail running category in 2014. The brand is expected to roll out two brand new off-road shoes this year, including the Wave Kazan. Anchored by Mizuno's proprietary Wave technology, the Kazan is designed for runners in search of the extra protection New-Balance-Minimus-00v2

New Balance Minimus Zero v2 Trail

Category: Running
Release date: March 1, 2014

Looking to do some serious off-roading in 2014? New Balance has you covered—literally—with its Minimus Zero v2 Trail. Light on the feet yet heavy on the protection, the Zero v2 Trail is versatile enough to take you from mild terrain to the more rugged trail without a hitch.

9.

New-Balance-Minimus-Trail

New Balance Minimus 007

Category: Running (trail)
Release date: March 1, 2014

With a lightweight build and aggressive outsole design, the New Balance Minimus 00v2 is the ideal shoe for athletes who participate in mud runs and grueling obstacle races.

10.

Nike-Flyknit-Lunar-Spring-2014

Nike Flyknit One V2

Category: Running
Release date: TBD

Knitwear fans will be pleased to know that Nike has a second version of its Flyknit One running shoe on tap for 2014. While little is currently known about the shoe, the Flyknit One V2 is expected to generate quite the buzz when it drops later this spring. Puma Evopower Camo

Puma evoPOWER Camo

Category: Soccer
Release date: January 3, 2014

Having signed a superstar like Mario Balotelli to its roster, Puma is going full speed ahead in the soccer footwear division this year. First up on the list is the new evoPOWER cleat (featured in a special camo-inspired colorway above). Would you rock these on the pitch? We sure would. Saucony-Kinvara-5_2

Saucony Kinvara 5

Category: Running
Release date: May 1, 2014

As it’s done every year for the past four years, in 2014, Saucony will introduce the next generation of its flagship neutral running shoe. This time, however, the shoe will boast a complete redesign for the first time since its introduction back in 2010. Saucony-Ride-7_1

Saucony Ride 7

Category: Running
Release date: June 1, 2014

With upgrades like a removed midfoot shank for improved ground contact, redesigned SRC crash pad in the heel for a more cushioned landing zone and a reduced weight for better overall feel, the Saucony Ride 7 looks to be the complete package when it comes to neutral support shoes. Vivo-Trail-Freak

Vivobarefoot Trail Freak

Category: Running (trail)
Release date: Spring 2014

I'm a sucker for a nice pair of trail shoes. So when Vivobarefoot gave me a little preview of what's to come from the brand in 2014, you bet it caught my attention. I mean just look at the Trail Freak—isn't it a thing of beauty? AAG-adidas-adizero-5-Star-3-0-copy

adidas adiZero 5-Star 3.0

Category: Football
Release date: January 1, 2014

Having made its debut during the college football bowl season, the adidas adiZero 5-Star 3.0 will be available for mass retail throughout 2014. Still the lightest cleat in the game at 6.7 ounces, the adiSero 5-Star 3.0 features a resilient Sprintskin upper with an internal Sprintweb framework for optimum stability and support.

Asics-Gel-Excel33-3_1

Asics Gel-Excel33 3

Category: Running
Release date: February 1, 2014

An update to Asics’ 33 collection, the Gel-Excel33 3 is designed as an all-purpose trainer. The shoe features a lightweight build at just under 9 ounces, making it nearly an ounce lighter than the current edition. hero-plus-energy-copy

adidas adiZero One

Category: Golf
Release date: January 23, 2014

Combine a golf shoe with a soccer cleat and what do you get? The all-new adidas adiZero One. This golf shoe is lightweight, comfortable and ready to hit the links.

nike-lunar-sprint-sample-1-570x3801

Nike Lunar Sprint

Category: Running
Release date: TBD

Leaked sample images of the Lunar Sprint lead us to believe Nike has something major in the works for 2014. Featuring popular Nike tech like Flywire and Lunarlon, the Lunar Sprint should come loaded with everything you need to shed some time of your PR this year.

nikevapor9-5

Nike Zoom Vapor 9.5 Tour

Category: Tennis
Release date: January 3, 2014

Nike decided to roll out the next version of Roger Federer's signature shoe just in time for the upcoming Australian Open. The Zoom Vapor 9.5 Tour looks fairly identical to the previous Zoom Vapor model, but it does have upgrades both inside and out to help elevate your game further.

11.

Saucony Type A6

Saucony Type A6

Category: Running
Release date: February 1, 2014

One of the fastest racing flats on the market is set to get even faster in 2014, as Saucony unveils the successor to its popular Type A5 shoe. The Type A6 drops the fierce dotted upper design seen on the current model in lieu of a refined look that’s equally as impressive visually (if not better).

Vivo-Trail-Freak-2

Vivobarefoot Evo Pure

Category: Running
Release date: Spring 2014

In the all-new Evo Pure, Vivo has done away with all the unnecessary bulk to create one of the most lightweight and breathable models in its collection. The shoe features a unique laminated upper construction for “the purest barefoot experience possible.”

12.

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adidas D Rose 4.5

Category: Basketball
Release date: January 30, 2014

While Derrick Rose's career hangs in the balance due to injury, adidas is going full speed ahead with his signature shoe line with the introduction of the D Rose 4.5 in 2014. Being hailed by some as the best D Rose signature yet, the 4.5 features Sprintweb and Sprintskin for enhanced support on the upper, combined with Geofit technology in the EVA molded collar to create a more ergonomic fit.

13.

New Balance 1296

New Balance 1296

Category: Tennis
Release date: TBD

New Balance is going to amp up its tennis footwear collection big time in 2014, and it all starts with the NB 1296. Look for the shoe to make its on-court debut on pro tennis player Milos Raonic at some point this season.

Nike Lunar Empress

Nike Lunar Empress

Category: Golf
Release date: January 1, 2014

The ladies will be getting some special love from Nike Golf this season, as the brand unveils the women-specific Lunar Empress hybrid shoe. Available in a series of fashion-forward colorways, the Lunar Empress is equally as impressive in performance as it is in aesthetics.

14.

Puma Mobium Elite v2

Puma Mobium Elite V2

Category: Running
Release date: January 1, 2014

While the original Mobium Elite got mixed reactions from the running world, the new and improved Mobium Elite V2 should establish itself as a worthy shoe choice for neutral runners. Puma has made some significant updates to both the design and the performance of the shoe.

15.

Nike Vapor Carbon 2004 Elite_8

Nike Vapor Carbon 2014 Elite

Category: Football
Release date: January 27, 2014

Inspired by the 40-yard dash and designed for Super Bowl Sunday, the Nike Vapor Carbon 2014 Elite is one of the hottest football cleats to ever be created. The Carbon 2014 Elite marks just the second time that a gridiron cleat has been manufactured using high-tech 3-D printing technology. It's lightweight, support, and above all, fast.