Three names from different corners of sneaker and street culture have come together for a fresh take on one of ASICS‘ standout silhouettes. ASICS, atmos and Albino & Preto (A&P) have joined forces on a special makeup of the GEL-KAYANO™ 12.1, arriving in two colourways.
The collaboration brings together the performance heritage of ASICS with A&P‘s unique design language, which draws heavily from the culture of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and streetwear. The result is a GEL-KAYANO 12.1 that feels technical, refined and full of character.
The upper combines breathable punched mesh with layered overlays, giving the sneaker a sporty but elevated look. A padded collar and lining add comfort and support, while reflective details bring a subtle hit of functionality.
Things get louder underfoot, with a vivid volt-colour gradient across the midsole that contrasts against the upper. Completing the look are nostalgic two-tone laces inspired by classic athletic footwear, adding another layer of retro sportswear energy.
The biggest inspiration comes from A&P‘s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu roots. Traditional BJJ apparel influences the textures and craftsmanship of the sneaker, while ASICS‘ technical approach keeps the GEL-KAYANO 12.1 firmly connected to performance footwear. It’s a meeting of martial arts culture, streetwear and running design that feels very much at home in today’s sneaker landscape.
Available in White/Safety Yellow and Black/Safety Yellow, the collaboration keeps the colour palette relatively clean while letting the details do the talking. The result is another strong addition to the ever-growing GEL-KAYANO 12.1 story.
For ASICS fans, atmos heads and anyone who appreciates sneakers with a bit more meaning behind the design, this one is definitely worth keeping on the radar.
Let me show you one of my ultimate go-to sneakers for all-day wear, travel and everyday comfort.
Today, we have the HAL Studios Design Thinking x ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 in the “Mahogany” colorway. And honestly, this is exactly the type of sneaker I reach for when I know I’ll be on my feet all day.
For my average-width feet, the GEL-NYC 2.0 fits true to size. However, if you have wide feet, I highly recommend going half a size up for a more comfortable fit.
Even better, this collaboration is still available at ASICS Australia for an unbelievable discounted price of $196 AUD.
The HSDT x ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 takes direct inspiration from the industrial New York City landscape and the iconic artwork of Nas’ legendary Illmatic album. Earlier this year, the collaboration also arrived in an equally impressive “Sulphur” colorway.
The “Mahogany” version combines a predominantly brown and black leather upper with metallic silver panels and rivet details. The design draws from The Architecture of Everyday Life. As a result, it captures the utilitarian structures of New York through layered details, rugged textures and a refined finish.
However, the cushioning really steals the show.
ASICS equips the GEL-NYC 2.0 with its reformulated FF BLAST PLUS midsole foam, combined with GEL technology in the forefoot and rearfoot. On foot, I find the cushioning softer, bouncier and lighter than many traditional sneaker midsoles.
The TPU TRUSSTIC guidance system also adds excellent stability without making the sneaker feel overly rigid.
And there’s more. For an extra styling option, ASICS includes a second pair of black dotted laces with rubber-dipped tips. They give the sneaker a completely different look.
So, when I need a reliable sneaker for travel, work or everyday wear, I always find myself reaching for my ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0s.
They look great. They feel even better. Most importantly, I can comfortably wear them for hours.
Now, I finally have the HSDT x ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 “Mahogany” in the rotation. And at $196 AUD, this one is seriously hard to pass up.
So, what are you waiting for?
The HSDT x ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 “Mahogany” is on sale now at ASICS Australia.
It’s easy to focus on the medals, records and big moments. But for Under Armour, the real story happens long before the spotlight. The brand has unveiled its new Asia-Pacific COMMIT platform, with Australian Olympic champion Kaylee McKeown leading the campaign as its newest athlete partner.
The idea behind COMMIT is simple: it’s not just about the result. It’s about the early mornings, the tough sessions, the extra reps and the decision to keep showing up when nobody is watching. Under Armour is shifting the conversation towards the work, growth and fulfilment that comes from committing to something you genuinely love.
McKeown is a pretty perfect fit for the message. At just 25, the Olympic swimming champion already holds the 200m backstroke world record and nine Olympic medals, including five golds. Following a recent battle with illness that kept her away from international competition, her focus on returning to competition becomes one of the campaign’s strongest stories.
The partnership also runs deep. McKeown joins Under Armour on a three-year deal through to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, while becoming the face of the brand’s Women’s Train category across the Pacific region.
She’s also joined by fellow Australian athletes Mark Nawaqanitawase and Finn Callaghan, alongside grassroots teams and everyday athletes. Together, they highlight something we don’t always see in sport, the work that happens behind the scenes, from setbacks and missed goals to the extra repetition that eventually makes the difference.
And that’s probably what makes COMMIT hit differently. Not everyone is chasing an Olympic medal or a world record. Sometimes commitment simply means getting out of bed for that early run, finishing one more set at the gym, or getting back up after a setback.
Under Armour‘s COMMIT platform has now launched across Australia, with the campaign rolling out through social and digital video, retail, influencer partnerships and grassroots sporting initiatives.
The win is the outcome. The commitment is the journey. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter for updates. For previous Under Armour features, click here.
The grind starts now. NBA 2K27 Season 1 is officially live with San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama taking centre stage.
This year’s first Season brings a fresh wave of rewards across The City and MyTEAM, with players earning XP through gameplay and climbing a 40-level rewards ladder. The higher you go, the bigger the rewards, including MyPLAYER cosmetics, Badge Tokens, Badge Slots, Cap Breakers and MyTEAM cards ranging from Amethyst all the way up to Dark Matter.
Over in The City, Season 1 brings back fan-favourite 2XREP Weekends, giving players more opportunities to level up while competing across Casual Corner, The REC, The Theater, Ante-Up, Proving Grounds and Crew Divisions. New events including Midway and Blackout also bring different ways to earn rewards throughout the Season.
MyTEAM is getting plenty of love too. The Expanded Exchange gives players more flexibility to trade eligible Player Cards for elite rewards, while the Season 1 ladder features some serious heat. Highlights include Amethyst Bam Adebayo, Amethyst Coach Mike Brown, Dark Matter Olivia Miles, and the ultimate Level 40 reward — Dark Matter Derrick Rose.
And if that’s not enough, players can also use the Season 1 Premier Exchange to secure an exclusive Dark Matter Tracy McGrady card.
Season 1 also comes with a soundtrack inspired by the legendary Rucker Park and the sounds of New York, bringing even more energy to the grind.
With Victor Wembanyama leading the charge, a stacked rewards ladder and plenty of events to keep players busy, NBA 2K27 Season 1 is officially underway. The worldwide launch of NBA 2K27 follows on September 4, but for those with Early Access, the Season has already begun.
Time to hit The City, build that MyTEAM and start the grind. Season 1 is on.
Release Details
NBA 2K27 Season 1: Available now
Worldwide Launch: September 4, 2026
Headliner: Victor Wembanyama
Season Rewards: 40 levels across The City and MyTEAM
Just when you thought Avengers: Endgame had its final goodbye, Marvel is bringing it back for one more run.
Avengers: Endgame Encore is heading back to Australian cinemas this September, giving fans another chance to experience one of the biggest moments in movie history on the big screen with new footage and an exclusive look at what’s coming next in the MCU.
If you were there in 2019, you already know the feeling. The portals. Captain America picking up Mjolnir. Tony Stark’s final snap. These weren’t just movie moments, they were theatre moments. Now Marvel is giving fans the chance to experience them all over again, but with a little something extra.
The Encore edition includes additional footage, a new introduction, a new post-credits scene and an exclusive look at Avengers: Doomsday. The film has also received updated colour grading, while the reported runtime sits at around 181 minutes for the Australian release.
And if you’re going back, you might as well go big.
In Australia, Avengers: Endgame Encore releases September 24, 2026, with screenings available through major cinema chains including Event Cinemas and HOYTS. The film is also returning to IMAX screens, while Marvel has confirmed the Encore experience will be presented on IMAX and Infinity Vision-certified screens.
For the ultimate experience, IMAX is definitely the way we’d go. This isn’t just another streaming rewatch — it’s Endgame back where it belongs: on the big screen, surrounded by a crowd losing it when the portals open.
And there’s a bigger reason for the timing. With Avengers: Doomsday arriving in Australian cinemas on December 17, Encore is designed to bridge the story between Endgame and Marvel’s next Avengers chapter. The Russo Brothers have described the new material as important to connecting the two films.
So, if Endgame was one of those movies you wish you could experience for the first time again, this might be as close as we’re going to get.
Avengers: Endgame Encore hits Australian cinemas September 24. Tickets are already on sale through participating cinemas. Assemble. One. More. Time.
Premium Formats: IMAX and Infinity Vision-certified screens
Bonus Content: New footage, new introduction, new post-credits scene and exclusive Avengers: Doomsday look
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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.
Screenshot
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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