These Sneaker Styles Are Putting ASICS On the Right Track

The sneaker scene is facing a bit of a shift right now, and if you haven’t started bringing some new brands into your rotation, then what are you waiting for? Over the past few months, we’ve seen the likes of New Balance and Salomon really up their game, and with performance brands coming for their share of the spotlight, we reckon that ASICS could be next in line to see a resurgence.

Founded in 1949, ASICS is steeped in running pedigree, making it a perfect contender to capitalise on the current retro runner trend. Seasoned sneakerheads will remember just how sought after its GEL-LYTE series was during the 2010s - Ronnie Fieg, Atmos and Patta all put their spin on the GEL LYTE III over the years, but now it’s time to focus on a couple of new models. The GEL-KAYANO 14 and GEL-1090 both captured the attention of collaborators JJJJound and NakedCPH last year, and the GEL-NIMBUS 9 is also perfectly positioned to fit into the aesthetic, so here’s a quick guide to each silhouette.

The GEL-KAYANO silhouette is a style that’s steeped in history, having seen many iterations since its original release in 1993. Designed as a running sneaker, the shoe had to go through a number to changes to make sure it kept up with the rest of the pack, and the 14th iteration of the model dropped in 2008. As the technology progressed further, the pair was discontinued until frequent collaborator and consultant Kiko Konstadinov pulled it out from the archives in 2020 to form part of the brand’s Sportstyle offering.

The model was the sneaker of choice for a JJJJound collaboration towards the end of 2022, and with a couple of collabs planned for the start of this year, we wouldn’t be surprised to see it featured again. The retro-style sneaker still looks timeless, and its design opens it up to near-endless colourblocking options, meaning there’s a pair to suit every rotation.

The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS was originally designed for long-distance running, but even if a marathon isn’t on your agenda, you can be sure they’ll see you through the day comfortably. Perhaps even more techy-looking than the GEL-KAYANO, the GEL-NIMBUS takes the retro dad shoe-style aesthetic to a new level.

Originally released in 2007, the modern-day version of the sneaker stays true to its key details, placing an emphasis on its heavily accented design. The sole unit has been updated however, and now a more segmented midsole provides more stability underfoot. It’s a shoe that looks good in any colour, but the cream and silver palette of this particular pair makes it an excellent alternative for those not wanting to pay resale prices for the JJJJound GEL-KAYANOs.

Originally designed as a women’s silhouette (but now sitting comfortably in unisex territory) the ASICS GEL-1090 quickly became a TikTok fave last year, and for good reason. Originally inspired by motorcycles and designed to convey speed, the style slots perfectly into the current retro runner trend and makes for a great alternative to the New Balance 530

Providing a super comfortable underfoot feel, the GEL-1090 stays true to its 2003 running heritage with a breathable mesh base, although its been given a facelift with a choice of either suede or leather overlays in line with the Sportstyle range. Having featured under ASICS’ collab with Copenhagen-based boutique Naked last year, this is definitely a style to have on your radar for 2023.

Which style will you be looking to pick up over the next 12 months? Hit the links to shop the styles and get ahead of the trend, and don't forget to head over to ASICS to check out the rest of the range.