Spanish retailer Sivasdescalzo is the latest brand to be tapped by ASICS to tackle the GEL-LYTE™ III OG. One of the brand’s most iconic models – a game-changer in the running industry when it first launched in 1990 with its tri-sole density cushioning and split-tongue design features – has seen its fair share of reinterpretations over the years by a roster of renowned international retailers, but Sivasdescalzo’s version of the GEL-LYTE™ III OG aims for a complete approach to eco-conscious design.
The Sivasdescalzo x ASICS GEL-LYTE™ III OG – the retailer’s debut collaboration with the brand – reimagines sneaker design and manufacturing processes, seeking out a range of innovative and environmentally conscious materials to highlight each of the silhouette’s iconic characteristics. Textured fabrics and recycled elements include an upper made of cotton, eco-leather overlays adorning ASICS’ Tiger Stripe logo, partially recycled foam on the tongue, 100% recycled plastic bottle insoles, as well as 100% jute fibre laces. The silhouette comes in unique packaging that has been specially designed for the collaboration and pays tribute to both brands and our planet.
Raúl Fernández, Sivasdescalzo’s Creative Director says, “The silhouette takes a lot of inspiration from the earth with a contrast of colours that are reminiscent of natural elements. We were really committed to giving the GEL-LYTE™ III a completely organic look and feel with an eco-friendly design from top to bottom. Essentially we wanted it to look like it came straight out of nature, playing around with a combination of raw and recycled materials, the raw being the yin to the recycled materials’ yang.”
Rubén García, sivasdescalzo’s Procurement Director adds, “We really wanted to demonstrate the endless possibilities in sneaker design from an eco-friendly perspective, and while we are currently seeing many brands develop in environmentally conscious manufacturing and design processes, as we are currently doing for our own line of Sivasdescalzo branded products, we are aware that we still have a long way to go. We also have a very important relationship with Japan in that we share an affinity for the use of authentic materials and a love for quality craftsmanship, so ASICS was the perfect brand to partner with for this special eco-focused project. They always go above and beyond.”
The Sivasdescalzo x ASICS GEL-LYTE™ III are now available at Above the Clouds, Up There Store, Sneakerboy, Urban Street Gear (USG) and Subtype for $280AUD.
