ASICS SportStyle is once again looking to its archive for inspiration, this time revisiting the early-2000s running DNA of the GEL-FRANTIC™ series to create the new GEL-KINETIC™ FR.
Rather than simply recreating an archival favourite, the GEL-KINETIC™ FR pulls together design details from multiple generations of the GEL-FRANTIC™ franchise and reshapes them for a contemporary audience. At the centre of the design is a streamlined feather-lasting silhouette, which wraps closer to the foot to create a cleaner, more fluid profile. A reworked synthetic quarter panel also gives the upper a more directional look, while retaining the layered construction and technical character associated with ASICS’ running archive.
The “FR” in the name is a direct nod to the GEL-FRANTIC™, but this isn’t simply a retro remake. ASICS has used elements from across the franchise to create something that feels familiar to longtime ASICS fans while still fitting naturally into the brand’s current SportStyle offering.
Underfoot, the GEL-KINETIC™ FR takes inspiration from the GEL-KINETIC™ 2.0, bringing a more considered cushioning setup to the silhouette. Scutoid GEL™ technology is positioned beneath the heel, while the forefoot features an integrated inner construction enabled by the feather-lasting design. A thicker sock-lining construction adds cushioning through the forefoot and is designed to contribute to a smoother transition through each step.
The cushioning story is also informed by research from the ASICS Institute of Sport Science into walking motion and load patterns, giving the GEL-KINETIC™ FR a technical foundation beneath its everyday styling. The bottom unit also references the original GEL-FRANTIC™ tooling, further connecting the new silhouette to its archival roots.
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For ASICS SportStyle, the GEL-KINETIC™ FR is another example of how its archive can be used as more than a source of nostalgia. By taking familiar performance details and reworking them through a contemporary silhouette, the brand continues to find new ways to reinterpret its running history for everyday wear.
The GEL-KINETIC™ FR is set to arrive online and at select retailers, with the official release date and pricing yet to be announced.
Studio Nicholson and ASICS SportStyle are back with their latest collaboration, bringing a more refined approach to the GEL-KINETIC™ SP sneaker. Following their debut partnership in SS24, the two brands have returned with a silhouette that blends Studio Nicholson’s restrained design language with ASICS’ technical approach to comfort and performance.
The result is a sneaker that sits somewhere between a modern formal shoe and a performance runner, stripping away unnecessary details while retaining the technology that has become synonymous with ASICS.
The GEL-KINETIC™ SP features a rich nubuck leather upper, arriving in both dark brown and black. One of the most distinctive elements is the newly developed symmetrical zip-up gusset closure, which creates a clean exterior while cleverly concealing the branding from both Studio Nicholson and ASICS. The bespoke zip is finished with a crafted nubuck leather knot tie, adding a subtle handcrafted element to the otherwise minimal design.
That focus on simplicity continues throughout the construction. Stitching has been kept to a minimum, allowing the natural shape of the foot and the texture of the materials to define the silhouette. Perforated detailing across the structured toe box adds breathability, while smooth leather side panels create a considered contrast against the nubuck upper.
There are also smaller details that reward a closer look, including understated whip-stitching across the X-heel and softly rolled, painted edges.
Underneath, ASICS brings its performance expertise to the collaboration. FF BLAST™ foam provides cushioning and energy return, while Scutoid GEL™ technology adds further cushioning. A BIOMORPHIC-inspired design also contributes to the shoe’s flexibility and natural fit.
The Studio Nicholson x ASICS GEL-KINETIC™ SP is an Asia-Pacific exclusive, launching first in South Korea on 12 June 2026 through a pop-up at BEAKER Seongsu before arriving across China and Japan from mid-July.
For Studio Nicholson, the collaboration feels like a natural extension of its design philosophy: take something familiar, remove the unnecessary and make every remaining detail count.
The Studio Nicholson GEL-KINETIC™ SP is now available at select retailers and from ASICS.com.au, with a retail price of $400.
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The collaboration gives the stability focused tennis shoe a sportier look, with a number of details inspired by LTTT’s visual identity and its 2014 season. An elongated clear and gradient ASICS Stripe adds a sense of speed, while the medial side removes the traditional Tiger Stripe, reflecting the simplicity of playing table tennis.
The toe caps feature playful debossed patterns alongside LTTT and 40++++ branding, while gradient filled details add another layer to the design. LTTT’s iconic Kanji is embroidered down the tongue, with a raised 40++++ detail stretching across both sneakers as a nod to the brand’s Los Angeles store.
Two colourways are available, including a bright green and yellow version featuring clear TPU panels, metallic silver details and an icy blue gradient heel cage. The second arrives in white wide knit mesh, contrasted by red detailing, a black FF BLAST™ PLUS midsole and gum inspired outsole.
The shoes also come with two different lace options, including a bungee system with an ASICS toggle and a no tie option, allowing for easy customisation.
Inside, premium sockliners provide comfort, while the insoles feature original artwork and imagery from the LTTT universe.
Shot in Los Angeles, the accompanying campaign follows a group of friends travelling from the Little Tokyo Table Tennis flagship to OCTTA and LATTA, capturing the excitement, competition, friendship and community that comes with a day of ping pong.
There is something different about OZMNL. Founded by Arvin Manuel, the Australian streetwear label, which takes its name from OZ and Manila, draws from the experience of growing up between Filipino and Australian culture. Since launching in 2021, OZMNL has used clothing as a way to explore heritage, identity and the journey of finding your place between two worlds.
That story is reflected in the brand’s approach to design. Filipino references sit alongside contemporary streetwear, creating pieces that feel connected to where OZMNL comes from without being defined by it. From the symbolism of its sun and stars emblem to collections inspired by Filipino life and history, there is always a deeper story behind the garments.
The brand’s “Home of Immigrants” philosophy sits at the centre of that story. Rather than simply looking back at its roots, OZMNL is interested in what happens when different cultures come together and influence the way we dress, create and express ourselves.
That philosophy will come to life on 22 August, when OZMNL hosts a pop up in Chippendale, Sydney. The event will offer an opportunity to experience the brand in person, explore the latest collection and meet the people behind OZMNL.
As the label continues to grow, its focus remains on creating clothing with meaning while representing a generation that understands what it is like to belong to more than one place.
In this interview, we speak with OZMNL about the origins of the brand, the influence of Filipino culture, the ideas behind its collections, building an independent label in Australia and what the future holds.
For anyone discovering OZMNL for the first time, how would you describe the brand and what it stands for?
OZMNL (OZ MANILA) is an Australian-based, Filipino owned Contemporary Streetwear label founded in 2021. The Goal is to Express Filipino Culture & Tell our story thru Streetwear.
Take us back to the beginning. What sparked the idea to start OZMNL?
Honestly, I never planned on having a brand. I was just selling clothes to survive here in Australia, until I found a reason to take it seriously.
The community, immigrants, and Filipinos around the world gave me a reason to buildOZMNL. A goal to build a home for everyone, not just a safe place, but a family and community where every time they wear OZMNL, they feel at home and know that they are not alone.
There’s a really strong Filipino influence throughout OZMNL. What are some of your favourite Filipino references, stories or cultural elements that you’ve brought into the brand?
Filipino stories, history, and sharing everything about us.
I grew up in a family that lived from hand to mouth, or in Tagalog, “ISANG KAHIG, ISANG TUKA.” Growing up and choosing a life as a dancer, it was often difficult for me to afford clothes and other necessities. So, whatever I had, I would style it, rock it, and wear it with full confidence.
The street, or “KALYE,” became a huge inspiration for me to create something and push beyond my boundaries. I took my experiences from the streets and turned them into something people could remember and wear everywhere, from elegant events to the streets.
OZMNL has developed a distinct look that blends Filipino culture with contemporary streetwear. How would you describe the OZMNL aesthetic, and what inspires you when creating a new collection?
I think whatever is worth telling a story about is worth spending time on. I want to create something that connects people to that story.
As a dancer, I love telling stories. I’m simply inspired by the things I’ve experienced, the things I’ve seen, and even the things I’ve worn before. Sometimes, I’m trying to break the walls and push myself to create something different when making products.If it works, it’s a blessing. If it doesn’t, it’s still a lesson learned.
What’s been one of your favourite pieces or collections to work on so far, and is there a particular piece that you think really captures what OZMNL is all about?
My favourite piece from the Home of Immigrants collection is the different colourways of the Sampaguita Hoodie. It pushed me to explore new patterns and textures beyond what we had used in previous collections, while still maintaining the quality of the pieces across different fabric colours. I also wanted to pay tribute to the first colours of our hoodies, which were Olive Green and Brown.
The brand has built a great community around it. What has it been like seeing people connect with OZMNL, especially Filipinos who see elements of their own culture represented in the clothing?
I am grateful and thankful that people appreciate a Filipino-owned brand that was born in a different country. I can say it’s an immigrant brand. It pushed me to create more.
You’ve got a pop up happening on August 22. What can everyone expect on the day, and is there anything you can tease that people should keep an eye out for?
All the details are posted on all OZMNL platforms. The energy of immigrants and the feeling that you are home are the most important things about this pop-up. All new products will be released on the day. I can’t promise restocks because we rarely do that. I am excited to see everyone.
Finally, what’s next for OZMNL? Are there any new collections, collaborations or big plans on the horizon that you can give us a sneak peek at?
Japan is the next stop. 🇯🇵
A massive thank you to OZMNL for opening up about the journey behind the brand and giving us a closer look at the ideas, experiences and community that have helped shape what OZMNL is today.
The OZMNL, HOME OF IMMIGRANTS Winter ’26 Pop Up Store will take place on 22 August from 11:00am to 5:00pm at 39 Wellington Street, Chippendale, Sydney. The event marks OZMNL first pop up store and will introduce its newHOME OF IMMIGRANTS collection, bringing the brand and its community together for the day.
For more information and to explore OZMNL’s latest releases, visit ozmnl.com.
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Champion is making a major statement for FW26, and it’s doing it with one of the biggest names in global pop culture. The iconic sportswear brand has officially announced V of BTS as the face of its new True Champion campaign, bringing together music, fashion, sport and self-expression on a global stage.
Designed to celebrate people who are shaping culture through their creativity and individuality, the True Champion campaign marks a new chapter for the brand. Rather than focusing solely on athletes, Champion is shining a spotlight on artists, creators and innovators who inspire others simply by being themselves.
Few people fit that description better than V. Known for his distinctive style, artistic vision and worldwide influence, the BTS member has become a cultural force far beyond music. His impact can be seen across fashion, art and entertainment, making him a natural fit for a campaign built around authenticity and self-expression.
V isn’t the only familiar face involved either. The FW26 campaign also features a diverse lineup including Romeo Beckham, SOFI TUKKER, Kyle Kuzma, Danna Paola, Megan Keller, Bella Sims, and Jaalen Best, bringing together voices from across sport, music and culture.
For fans in Australia and New Zealand, the campaign is getting a local twist. Throughout August, Champion is rolling out a large-scale street poster takeover across Melbourne and Sydney, with each location doubling as an entry point into the V x Champion Australia competition. Fans can scan QR codes featured on the posters for a chance to win prizes from a pool worth more than $5,000, including a BTS experience for two.
Champion has always had deep roots in sport and street culture, but the True Champion campaign shows the brand continuing to evolve alongside the communities that wear it. By partnering with one of the most influential artists in the world, Champion is tapping into a generation that lives at the intersection of fashion, music and culture.
The True Champion campaign is available now across Australia and New Zealand, with V leading the charge as the latest face of the iconic “C” logo. For BTS fans and streetwear enthusiasts alike, this is one campaign that’s hard to miss.
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When it comes to the ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 20, Australia has always had a special relationship with the silhouette. Over the years, original colourways have become highly sought after, with collectors willing to pay serious money to secure a pair. Now, Melbourne’s own UP THERE is putting its spin on the fan-favourite runner, delivering a collaboration that’s impossible to ignore.
Dubbed one of the brightest GEL-KAYANO™ 20 releases we’ve seen, the sneaker features a bold gradient that fades from vibrant Safety Yellow into crisp white. It’s a technically impressive design that flows seamlessly from the upper into the dual-layered midsole, creating a striking visual effect that immediately grabs attention.
UP THERE didn’t stop there. The collaboration also incorporates the distinctive mesh from the legendary GEL-KINSEI™ 4, another silhouette that holds cult status amongst Australian ASICS enthusiasts. Combined with reflective detailing throughout the upper, the shoe shines just as hard after dark as it does during the day.
The finer details keep things clean and considered. Signature green hits appear on the lace tips, insole and GUIDANCE LINE, while crystal-clear GEL inserts, an icy outsole and TRUSSTIC shank round out the design. It’s a sneaker that balances performance heritage with modern collector appeal, something both ASICS and UP THERE have become known for.
What makes this release particularly special is how well it captures Australia’s long-standing love affair with technical running footwear. Loud colours, bold design choices and classic performance silhouettes have always resonated locally, and this collaboration feels like a celebration of that culture.
The ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 20 by UP THERE releases August 20, with an in-store launch at 10:00AM AEST followed by an online release at 6:00PM AEST via UP THERE. If recent GEL-KAYANO™ collaborations are anything to go by, don’t expect these to sit around for long.
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Thirty years of Pokémon deserves a big celebration, and the Pokémon TCG is doing exactly that with 30th Celebration. The anniversary expansion is set to bring together new cards, classic Pokémon and plenty of nostalgia for collectors.
The release isn’t happening all at once. Pokémon has planned a staggered rollout across September, October and November, giving collectors several release dates to look forward to.
September 16, 2026
The main 30th Celebration expansion launches on September 16, with the first wave of products arriving in stores. Collectors can pick up the Elite Trainer Box, Poster Collection, 2 Pack Blister, Knock Out Collection, Tech Sticker Collection and the Sylveon ex and Greninja ex Boxes.
One of the biggest highlights is Pikachu. Every booster pack includes five foil cards, including one of 30 different Pikachu illustrations, making it one of the most exciting chase collections in the set.
October 2, 2026
The celebration continues with the Binder Collection, Booster Bundle and Mini Tins.
The Binder Collection includes five booster packs, while the Booster Bundle contains six booster packs. The Mini Tins each include two booster packs and feature ten unique tin designs to collect.
October 30, 2026
The Espeon ex and Umbreon ex Battle Decks arrive later in October.
Each deck contains 60 foil cards built around two of Pokémon’s most popular Eeveelutions, making them a great option for both players and collectors.
November 6, 2026
The final wave includes the Ditto Premium Collection, Mew & Mewtwo Figure Collection and the Ultra Premium Collection: Day & Night.
The Ultra Premium Collection is expected to be one of the most sought after products in the range, featuring 29 booster packs, a special Classic Collection booster pack and a range of exclusive cards and accessories.
With products releasing across three months, Pokémon is giving collectors plenty of opportunities to celebrate the Trading Card Game’s 30th anniversary. Whether you’re chasing all 30 Pikachu cards or adding the premium collections to your shelf, 30th Celebration is shaping up to be one of the biggest Pokémon TCG releases of 2026.
Key release dates:
September 16, 2026 – Main expansion launch
October 2, 2026 – Binder Collection, Booster Bundle and Mini Tins
October 30, 2026 – Espeon ex and Umbreon ex Battle Decks
November 6, 2026 – Ditto Premium Collection, Mew & Mewtwo Figure Collection and Ultra Premium Collection: Day & Night
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Pink took over Harajuku last week as atmos pink celebrated the launch of its latest Nike collection, the PINK PACK. Built around the colour pink, the collection brings together a selection of Nike footwear, with atmos pink adding its own twist through a launch event and customisation experience.
Held on Friday, August7, the night before the official release, the PINK PACK launch took place at the newly relocated atmos pinkflagship Harajuku.
The event brought together sneakers, music, food and customisation, giving the PINK PACK its own dedicated launch experience. One of the main features was the Custom Bar,where customers purchasing from the collection could customise their sneakers with their choice of charms and shoelaces.
I’m always a fan of anything that lets you make a pair your own, and this is probably one of the best parts of the PINK PACK. Rather than everyone walking away with exactly the same looking pair, the Custom Bar gives people the chance to add their own personality.
The event also featured DJ performances, catering and a PINK PACK themed photo booth, adding to the overall experience and giving the launch more of a community feel.
The timing of the event was also pretty fitting for the new Harajuku location. atmos pink’s flagship store relocated and reopened on July 4 under the “PINK HUB” concept, creating a new space focused on the crossover between sneaker culture, fashion and community. The store also introduced its first Socks Bar, giving customers another way to style their sneakers.
The PINK PACK officially released on Saturday, August 8, following the launch event, with the collection available through atmos pink stores and the atmos online shop. The Custom Bar is also continuing beyond the launch event, with customers purchasing PINK PACK footwear at atmos pink stores able to access the customisation service.
And it looks like this won’t be the last we hear about the PINK PACK. atmos pink has also announced plans for further community events around the collection, with more details to be revealed through its website and social media.
For me, this is what makes the PINK PACK more interesting than just another Nike colourway. The pink theme gives the collection an obvious identity, but the customisation element adds something extra and gives people a reason to interact with the release. Nike drops happen all the time, but when a release becomes an experience around the sneaker rather than just the sneaker itself, it feels a little different.
The atmos pink PINK PACK is now available through atmos pink stores and the atmos online shop.
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Converse is reinventing its iconic Chuck Taylor with the new Run Star Crush. The bold new silhouette brings a fashion-forward edge to one of the world’s most recognisable sneakers.
Built for self-expression, the Converse Run Star Crush combines the brand’s classic Chuck Taylor DNA with an exaggerated platform sole and sculptural proportions. As a result, the sneaker delivers a playful, confident look that demands attention.
The design keeps the iconic Chuck Taylor upper while adding a chunky platform construction. This fresh approach gives the timeless silhouette a contemporary attitude without losing its Converse heritage.
Launching 8 August, the Run Star Crush campaign features global music and style icon Karina of aespa. Her fearless approach to fashion perfectly captures the spirit of the new Converse silhouette.
The collection also offers plenty of texture. Converse introduces the Run Star Crush in crinkled leather, pony hair and canvas options. Each version adds its own personality while maintaining the sneaker’s bold platform profile.
The Converse Run Star Crush will be available in-store, online at Converse Australia and through select retailers.
The adidas Superstar has been reimagined countless times over the years, but this latest collaboration tells a story unlike any other. Limited Edt and adidas Originals have unveiled the Superstar Consortium ‘Made in India’, an exclusive release that celebrates India’s rich culture, craftsmanship, and growing influence on the global sneaker scene.
Created as part of adidas Originals‘ highly sought-after Consortium programme, the release is one of the first to shine a spotlight on Indian design through one of the brand’s most prestigious collaboration platforms. Even better, it’s limited to just 350 individually numbered pairs worldwide, making this one of the rarest Superstar releases in recent memory.
The storytelling is where this pair really stands out. Inspired by the idea that celebration is part of everyday life in India, the Superstar features a detailed peacock motif across the upper, insole, and translucent outsole, paying tribute to the country’s national bird. Traditional vine patterns reference Indian textiles and centuries-old architecture, while gold lace locks, jewellery-inspired aglets, and gold foil branding add a premium finish. Pops of red and blue complete the design, representing prosperity, purity, and celebration.
The attention to detail doesn’t stop with the sneaker. Every pair comes housed in a custom matchbox-inspired collector’s box, inspired by the ceremonial lighting of the first flame during auspicious occasions. Inside you’ll also find a custom shoe bag, motif socks, alternate red and blue laces presented in a jewelry pouch, and an individually numbered flame charm that makes each pair feel even more special.
Beyond the product itself, the campaign showcases the Superstar where it belongs, on the streets. From vibrant neighborhoods and local celebrations to traditional dance, street art, food vendors, music, and skate culture, the campaign highlights the energy and creativity that inspired the collaboration. It’s a reminder that sneaker culture is shaped just as much by community as it is by the shoes themselves.
The Limited Edt x adidas Superstar Consortium ‘Made in India’ launches August 8 in India and August 12 in Singapore for ₹11,999 and SGD 179 respectively. The release will be available exclusively through Limited Edt stores and online in a full unisex size run from UK 3–13. If you’re lucky enough to secure one of the 350 pairs, you’ll be adding a genuine piece of sneaker history to your collection
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