From culturally rooted design to refined material storytelling, these five Year of the Horse releases redefine Lunar New Year footwear
As Lunar New Year approaches, footwear brands once again revisit the Chinese zodiac for inspiration. But for 2026’s Year of the Horse, the narrative feels more refined than performative. Rather than relying on saturated reds and overt gold accents, this year’s standout releases lean into texture, material contrast and cultural nuance.
From pony hair details that subtly reference the zodiac animal to design elements rooted in traditional Chinese dress, the focus has shifted toward storytelling over spectacle. Whether expressed through heritage basketball silhouettes, minimalist lifestyle trainers or rugged workwear staples, these five pairs reflect some of the most compelling interpretations of the Year of the Horse this season.
CLOT x Adidas Qi Flow
Leading this year’s lineup, the CLOT x adidas Qi Flow delivers one of the most culturally expressive interpretations of the season. The slipper-like silhouette arrives in a sleek black upper contrasted by a crisp white collar, creating a sharp yet elegant palette. Traditional pankou knot buttons replace standard laces, directly referencing Hanfu construction, while the slim espadrille sole keeps the profile grounded and refined. The design reads as a contemporary footwear translation of traditional Chinese dress – deliberate, minimal and rooted in heritage.
Air Jordan 1 Low OG “CNY”
A consistent presence in Jordan Brand’s annual Lunar New Year lineup, the Air Jordan 1 Low OG returns this year with a restrained yet layered execution. An understated gray canvas base is complemented by tonal pony hair overlays along the Swoosh and heel, referencing the Horse zodiac through texture. Floral embroidery across the toe box introduces cultural detail. Meanwhile, a hidden scroll beneath the tongue reveals a classical Chinese verse about galloping through Chang’an, adding poetic depth to the silhouette.
New Balance 204L “Year of the Horse”
Building on its breakout momentum since debuting in 2025, the 204L returns in a Year of the Horse edition offered in two monochrome suede colorways: tan and white. A pony hair heel tab references the zodiac animal through texture rather than print, preserving the silhouette’s minimalist identity. Tonal laces maintain the clean, understated aesthetic favored by today’s market, while optional red laces introduce a measured festive accent for those seeking a stronger Lunar New Year statement.
Timberland Premium 6-Inch Boot “Year Of The Horse”
True to its utilitarian DNA, Timberland interprets the Horse through durability and structure. The Premium 6-Inch Boot arrives in light beige waterproof leather, complemented by a contrasting navy padded collar and red laces that nod to Lunar New Year tradition. A commemorative suede tag embossed with a horse motif reinforces the zodiac theme, while metal eyelets and rugged construction preserve its workwear identity. The result feels grounded, resilient and firmly connected to the brand’s heritage.
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 “Year of the Horse”
Riding the continued popularity of retro flat trainers, the Mexico 66 remains one of Onitsuka Tiger’s most fashion-relevant silhouettes. This Year of the Horse edition features a soft cream base that keeps the profile timeless and wearable. Festive updates include red gradient side stripes, a gold horseshoe lace charm and a red pony hair heel tab referencing the zodiac animal. The Lunar New Year elements enhance the heritage design without overwhelming its understated appeal.
Also see: Fashion shoot: Wear your luck
