The Shoe Every Asian Star Is Wearing Right Now
The Dior Roadie is emerging as the defining shoe of 2026, as seen on some of Asia’s most visible stars
Asia’s stars step in
A new shoe is dominating the wardrobes of some of Asia’s most visible stars. In recent weeks, Apo Nattawin, Hyunjin, James Jirayu, Mile Phakphum, Kim Mingyu, and Phutatchai have all been seen wearing the same design: the Dior Roadie.
The shoe, introduced during the Spring/Summer 2026 show, sits somewhere between a Derby, a driving shoe, and a sneaker. Its appeal appears to lie in that ambiguity, offering a version of luxury that feels more adaptable to how people actually dress now.
The Dior Roadie marks Jonathan Anderson’s first standalone footwear design for Dior and signals a shift in how the house approaches product design. Rather than revisiting an archival silhouette or relying on visible branding, Jonathan has focused on construction.
Designed for movement
The shoe’s two-part sole is engineered to mirror the natural movement of the foot. Its tubular outsole is seamless, a technical decision that reduces rigidity and allows for a smoother range of motion.
While many sneaker releases in 2026 have incorporated zodiac references and bold visual cues, the Roadie avoids these entirely. Instead, it builds its identity through material and detail.
Suede panels, chunky laces with subtle Dior branding, and a padded collar introduce texture and structure without overwhelming the design. Even the Cannage motif, one of Dior’s most recognizable signatures, is engraved into the rubber sole rather than placed prominently on the upper.
Versatility on the rise
The shoe’s growing presence among Asian celebrities makes sense, as it works across different wardrobes, pairing as easily with relaxed workwear trousers as with more tailored looks.
For Dior, the Roadie represents a measured but significant evolution. It expands the brand’s footwear offering without relying on nostalgia and introduces a silhouette that prioritizes movement and wearability.
As it continues to circulate across cities and industries, the shoe is shaping up to be one of the defining footwear items of the year, because it fits so seamlessly into the way people are already dressing.
Photos courtesy Dior
