Japanese cult brand ASICS is full of ideas to create innovative silhouettes or present unexpected but meaningful collabs. While a collaborative Pop-Up Store is currently taking place in Paris (France), the streetwear giant unveils a GEL-SONOMA 15-50 created in partnership with TOYODA GOSEI, an automotive supplier based in Japan.
This surprising 100% Japanese collaboration highlights the (necessary) approach of recycling.
The exclusive GEL-SONOMA 15-50 includes in its construction prototypes of airbags from the automotive supplier destined for the trash. It consists of a cream-colored upper with red seams, whose usual mesh has been replaced by the strong, durable and light fabric of TOYODA GOSEI airbags. To match the design, traditional ASICS branding details such as the Tigers Stripes on the side, the ‘a’ logo on the tongue and the model name ’15-50′ under the ankle are also dressed in red. At the heel, silver-grey inserts add an extra futuristic touch to the pair. A two-tone white/red co-branded insole, an off-white midsole to match the upper and a contrasting black spiked outsole elegantly finalize the innovative look.
It’s worth noting that leftover airbag fabric and steering wheel leather are difficult to recycle, and Toyoda Gosei has turned these materials into bags, pen cases and other products that it sells under the eco-friendly Re-S brand.
Asics has also been looking for ways to incorporate recycled materials into its sneakers and sportswear. The partnership is just getting started…
The Toyoda Gosei x ASICS GEL-Sonoma 15-50 will be released on January 27, 2023 at select asics retailers in select countries and online at asics.com.
