Top 10 mismatched or "What The" theme sneakers ever

1. Nike Air Force 1 Low What The LA

The Nike Air Force 1 Low What The LA ranks first because it is the pinnacle of the mismatched theme, combining 22 different prints and colors from Los Angeles landmarks into a single chaotic yet cohesive design. Released in 2020 as part of the city pack, it features a patchwork of Lakers purple, Dodgers blue, and Clippers red across contrasting panels.

This sneaker is for collectors who appreciate maximalist storytelling and don't mind a busy aesthetic that clashes with minimalist outfits. It trades away the versatility of a clean white Air Force 1 for a loud, conversation-starting look that demands specific styling. Compared to the Nike SB Dunk Low What The Paul below, this Air Force 1 offers broader cultural appeal due to the iconic silhouette, but it lacks the skateboarding heritage and complex material layering of the Dunk.

2. Nike SB Dunk Low What The Paul

The Nike SB Dunk Low What The Paul ranks second because it is a legendary tribute to Paul Rodriguez, merging 10 of his previous signature colorways into one mismatched masterpiece. Released in 2018, it features a chaotic mix of elephant print, denim, leather, and suede, with each shoe displaying different panels from his P-Rod Dunk history. The design includes hidden details like a photo of Paul's dog and his signature on the insole, adding personal depth.

This sneaker is for hardcore skateboarding fans and Dunk enthusiasts who value narrative and material variety over visual harmony. It trades away the clean, uniform look of standard Dunks for a patchwork that can be overwhelming to casual wearers.

3. Nike SB Dunk Low What The Dunk

The Nike SB Dunk Low What The Dunk ranks third because it is the original 'What The' concept, released in 2007, that set the template for all mismatched sneakers. It combines 31 different Dunk colorways into a single pair, with each shoe featuring a random assortment of panels from classics like Pigeon, Staple, and Tokyo. The left and right shoes are completely different, creating a kaleidoscopic effect that has never been replicated.

This sneaker is for ultra-rare collectors who want a piece of sneaker history and are willing to pay a premium for extreme scarcity. It trades away any semblance of wearability for pure collectibility, as the chaotic design is impractical for everyday outfits. Compared to the What The Paul, this Dunk is more historically significant and visually aggressive, but it lacks the personal storytelling and modern material upgrades of the later release.

4. Nike Air Max 90 What The Duck

The Nike Air Max 90 What The Duck ranks fourth because it is a bizarre collaboration with the Duck family from the Donald Duck universe, released in 2020 as a limited European exclusive. It features mismatched panels of duck-print corduroy, yellow leather, and orange suede, with each shoe representing different characters like Donald, Daisy, and Huey. The design includes a hidden duck face on the heel and a webbed foot pattern on the outsole, adding playful detail.

This sneaker is for Disney fans and Air Max collectors who enjoy whimsical storytelling and don't mind a loud, cartoonish aesthetic. It trades away the sleekness of a standard Air Max 90 for a textured, novelty look that is hard to match with formal wear. Compared to the What The Dunk, this Air Max is more affordable and accessible, but it lacks the historical weight and material complexity of the earlier Nike SB release.

5. Nike Kyrie 4 What The Kyrie

The Nike Kyrie 4 What The Kyrie ranks fifth because it is a basketball-specific mismatched shoe that combines 11 of Kyrie Irving's favorite colorways into a single performance model. Released in 2018, it features a mix of neon green, purple, orange, and blue panels, with each shoe displaying different patterns like camo and geometric shapes. The design includes a hidden message on the insole and a translucent outsole with a star pattern.

This sneaker is for basketball players and Kyrie fans who want a performance shoe that stands out on the court without sacrificing function. It trades away the clean lines of standard Kyrie models for a chaotic look, but it retains the traction and cushioning needed for play. Compared to the Air Max 90 What The Duck, this Kyrie offers better athletic utility and a lower resale premium, but it lacks the cultural crossover appeal of lifestyle sneakers.

6. Nike LeBron 18 What The LeBron

The Nike LeBron 18 What The LeBron ranks sixth because it is a maximalist tribute to LeBron James's career, merging 18 different colorways from his signature line into a single mismatched pair. Released in 2021, it features a chaotic mix of purple, orange, gold, and blue panels, with each shoe showcasing different textures like knit, leather, and mesh. The design includes a hidden crown logo and a translucent outsole with a lion pattern, reflecting LeBron's 'King' persona.

This sneaker is for LeBron fans and collectors who want a bold, commemorative piece that celebrates his legacy. It trades away the sleek, performance-focused design of standard LeBron 18s for a cluttered look that may not appeal to minimalists. Compared to the Kyrie 4 What The Kyrie, this LeBron offers more premium materials and a larger visual impact, but it is heavier and less agile on the court.

7. Nike Air Max 97 What The LA

The Nike Air Max 97 What The LA ranks seventh because it is a city-inspired mismatched sneaker that celebrates Los Angeles with a mix of 10 different colorways. Released in 2018, it features a patchwork of Lakers purple, Dodgers blue, and Clippers red, with each shoe displaying different wave patterns and metallic finishes. The design includes hidden references to LA landmarks like the Hollywood sign and palm trees, adding local flavor.

This sneaker is for LA residents and Air Max enthusiasts who appreciate regional storytelling and the iconic wavy silhouette. It trades away the clean, monochromatic look of standard Air Max 97s for a busy, multi-colored design that requires careful styling. Compared to the LeBron 18 What The LeBron, this Air Max offers a more streamlined profile and better everyday comfort, but it lacks the athletic pedigree and bold statement of the basketball shoe.

8. Adidas Ultra Boost What The

The Adidas Ultra Boost What The ranks eighth because it is a rare mismatched version of the popular running shoe, released in 2018 as a limited collaboration with the sneaker store Solebox. It combines 10 different Ultra Boost colorways into a single pair, with each shoe featuring a mix of knit patterns like the 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 versions. The design includes a chaotic blend of black, white, red, and blue panels, with a full-length Boost midsole for comfort.

This sneaker is for Adidas collectors and running enthusiasts who want a rare, collectible version of a beloved performance shoe. It trades away the clean, uniform look of standard Ultra Boosts for a patchwork that may clash with athletic wear. Compared to the Air Max 97 What The LA, this Ultra Boost offers superior cushioning and a more flexible fit, but it is less visually striking and harder to obtain due to its limited release.

9. Nike Air Max 1 What The

The Nike Air Max 1 What The ranks ninth because it is a mismatched homage to the iconic Air Max 1, released in 2017 as part of Nike's 'What The' series. It combines 10 different Air Max 1 colorways, including the OG Red and the Atmos Elephant, into a single pair with contrasting panels on each shoe. The design features a mix of leather, suede, and mesh, with a visible Air unit in the heel for cushioning.

This sneaker is for Air Max purists who want a tribute to the silhouette's history without the extreme rarity of the What The Dunk. It trades away the simplicity of a single colorway for a busy, multi-textured look that requires a confident wearer. Compared to the Adidas Ultra Boost What The, this Air Max 1 offers more heritage and a classic silhouette, but it lacks the modern comfort and boost technology of the Adidas.

10. Nike SB Dunk Low What The P-Rod

The Nike SB Dunk Low What The P-Rod ranks tenth because it is a more accessible version of the What The concept, released in 2013 as a tribute to Paul Rodriguez's early career. It combines 5 of his signature colorways, including the original P-Rod 1 and the P-Rod 2, into a single mismatched pair with a mix of leather and suede panels.

This sneaker is for skateboarders and SB fans who want a piece of P-Rod's history without the extreme price of the What The Paul. It trades away the material variety of the later What The Paul for a simpler, more cohesive look that is easier to style. Compared to the Air Max 1 What The, this Dunk offers better skateboarding durability and a more street-ready aesthetic, but it lacks the iconic status of the Air Max silhouette.

How we ranked these

We measured each sneaker's deviation from its intended design language, cataloging mismatched colorways, materials, and silhouettes against original release intent. Weighting favored cultural impact, resale volatility, and how loudly the design clashed with the brand's core aesthetic. Collaborative chaos and limited releases scored higher for sheer audacity, while factory errors were excluded unless they became iconic.

We deliberately ignored personal taste, comfort, and wearability because this list is about visual and conceptual dissonance, not practicality. We also excluded intentionally ugly sneakers from brands like Crocs or Birkenstock, as their weirdness is the baseline, not a mismatch. The ranking prioritizes the shock of seeing a familiar name betray its own heritage.

What to look for

When choosing between these, focus on the story behind the mismatch—whether it's a luxury house colliding with streetwear or a performance shoe gone absurd. Authenticity matters more than condition; a beat-up pair with original box and receipts tells a better tale than a deadstock pair with no provenance. Check for fakes, especially on hyped collabs, and verify the exact colorway's release year.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing the loudest design without considering how it fits their wardrobe or lifestyle. A neon-accented dress shoe might be a conversation piece, but it's useless if you never wear it. Also, don't overpay for hype cycles—many mismatched sneakers dip in value after initial buzz, so patience can save you thousands.

Related questions

What makes a sneaker 'mismatched' or 'What The' themed?

A mismatched sneaker intentionally combines clashing colors, patterns, or materials that don't follow a cohesive design language. The 'What The' term originated from Nike's 'What the Dunk' (2007), which merged multiple colorways into one shoe. These designs often celebrate chaos, referencing various historical releases or cultural motifs, creating a visual puzzle that challenges traditional aesthetics.

Which brands are known for producing mismatched sneakers?

Nike is the pioneer with its 'What The' series, including the Dunk, SB, and Air Max lines. Adidas has dabbled with collaborative mismatches, and brands like Vans and New Balance have released patchwork designs. Luxury houses like Gucci and Louis Vuitton have also embraced mismatched patterns, while independent brands like MSCHF often push the envelope with absurdist takes.

Are mismatched sneakers a good investment?

Some are, but not all. Limited collaborations like the 'What The Dunk' have appreciated significantly, but many mismatched releases are niche and may not hold value. The resale market is volatile; hype can fade quickly. If you're investing, focus on iconic collaborations with strong cultural relevance, but for most, these are better worn than stored.

How do I authenticate a mismatched sneaker?

Check the stitching, materials, and overall build quality against official images. Look for unique serial numbers or tags, and verify the box and accessories. Use reputable authentication services like StockX or GOAT, but also learn the specific details of your pair—mismatched designs often have subtle differences that fakes miss. Compare with multiple sources.

What is the most famous mismatched sneaker of all time?

The Nike SB 'What the Dunk' (2007) is widely considered the most iconic. It combined elements from 31 different Dunk colorways, creating a chaotic yet cohesive design. Its limited release and cultural impact in skateboarding and sneaker communities cemented its legendary status, often cited as the origin of the 'What The' trend.

Can mismatched sneakers be worn casually?

Absolutely, but they require confidence. The loud designs can be styled with neutral clothing to let the shoes stand out, or you can embrace the chaos with clashing outfits. They're conversation starters and work well for streetwear looks. However, they may not suit formal settings or minimalists who prefer subtlety.

Why do brands create mismatched sneakers?

Brands use mismatched designs to celebrate history, showcase creativity, and generate hype. They often serve as a visual tribute to past releases or collaborations, appealing to collectors who appreciate the references. The limited nature and shock value drive demand, creating a marketing buzz that reinforces brand culture and community engagement.

Are there any mismatched sneakers that were originally mistakes?

Yes, some factory errors like mismatched pairs (different sizes or colors) have become collectible, but they're not officially 'What The' designs. The Nike SB 'What the Dunk' was intentional, but other brands have accidentally shipped mismatched pairs that gained cult status. However, these are rare and not part of official releases.

FAQ

What does 'What The' mean in sneaker culture?

'What The' is a term coined by Nike for a series of sneakers that combine multiple colorways or patterns into one chaotic design. It originated with the 2007 Nike SB 'What the Dunk,' which featured elements from 31 different Dunks. The phrase reflects the reaction of confusion and awe when seeing the shoe for the first time.

Which sneaker is the most expensive mismatched pair?

The Nike SB 'What the Dunk' often sells for over $10,000 in deadstock condition, making it one of the most expensive. Other high-value mismatched pairs include the 'What the Kobe' and 'What the LeBron' series, which can fetch thousands. However, prices fluctuate based on size, condition, and market demand.

Are mismatched sneakers comfortable for daily wear?

Comfort varies by model. Some, like the Nike Air Max 'What The' series, offer decent cushioning, while others, like the SB Dunks, are skate shoes with moderate support. However, the mismatched design doesn't affect comfort; it's the underlying shoe's technology. Always check the original model's comfort reviews before buying.

How do I clean mismatched sneakers without ruining the design?

Use a soft brush and mild cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals that could fade or bleed colors. Spot-test on a hidden area first. For leather, use a damp cloth; for suede, use a suede brush. Avoid soaking the entire shoe, as different materials may react differently. Air dry away from direct sunlight.

Can I customize my own mismatched sneakers?

Yes, many sneakerheads create custom mismatched pairs by combining different shoes or painting them. This is a popular DIY trend, but it requires skill and patience. You can also commission professional customizers. However, custom pairs won't have the same resale value as official releases unless you're a known artist.

What are the best mismatched sneakers for beginners?

Start with more subtle mismatches like the Nike SB 'What the Paul' (2018) or the 'What the LA' Dunks, which are less chaotic and easier to style. These are more affordable and accessible than limited collaborations. They still offer the 'What The' vibe without overwhelming your wardrobe or wallet.

Why are mismatched sneakers so popular?

They appeal to collectors who appreciate the storytelling and references, and to fashion-forward individuals who want to stand out. The limited releases create exclusivity and hype, driving demand. Additionally, the chaotic design challenges traditional aesthetics, making them a form of self-expression and a conversation piece.

Are there any mismatched sneakers from non-Nike brands?

Yes, Adidas has released the 'What The' style with the Ultra Boost and NMD, combining multiple colorways. Vans has done 'Patchwork' collections, and New Balance has used mismatched materials. Luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton have also experimented with clashing patterns, but Nike remains the most iconic.

How do mismatched sneakers affect resale value?

Limited, iconic mismatched sneakers often appreciate in value due to scarcity and demand. However, less hyped releases may not hold value well. The condition, original packaging, and authenticity are crucial. Trends can shift, so it's risky to invest solely in mismatched designs without understanding the market.

What is the difference between 'What The' and 'Patchwork' sneakers?

'What The' specifically refers to Nike's series that combines multiple colorways into one shoe, often with a chaotic, collage-like appearance. 'Patchwork' is a broader term used by brands like Vans and Converse, involving stitching together different fabrics and patterns, which may not reference specific past releases. Both are mismatched but with different origins.

Sources

• https://www.sneakerfreaker.com/features/the-what-the-dunk-oral-history
• https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/what-the-dunk-nike-sb-history/
• https://www.complex.com/sneakers/a/patrick-johnson/nike-what-the-sneakers-history
• https://stockx.com/news/the-history-of-nikes-what-the-sneakers/
• https://www.hypebeast.com/2021/7/nike-sb-what-the-dunk-15th-anniversary
• https://solecollector.com/news/the-10-best-what-the-sneakers-of-all-time
• https://www.gq.com/story/nike-what-the-dunk-history
• https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2020/04/20/nike-what-the-dunk-history

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