ASICS and Shenzhen-based fashion label COSTS come together for the release of their collaborative GT-2160™ shoe, which pairs traditional craft with an advanced approach. Backed by the design concept of “THIS IS COSTS WAY”, the duo aspires to bring exclusive fashion trends to consumers with comfortable offerings. The accented Cantonese cultural elements open up the possibility of integrating fashion with homeware, bringing the beauty of traditional craft to life.
Established in 2012, COSTS sees the fashion world through the eyes of youth living in the southern coastal periphery of China. It aims to promote modish cultures with a global vision, inspiring people to look deeper into fashion trends. The alliance between ASICS’ iconic aesthetic gene with the unique Cantonese culture gave rise to a new style. The shoe takes its name from the bamboo-knitted basket-like tool that birthed it: SHAO JI, which plays an important role in local people’s physical and mental life, and is a symbol for better life.
Breathable mesh is widely adopted on the upper, paired with the textile and hue inspired by knitted SHAO JI, even including the suede on the side. The eyelet stay on the left and right are embroidered with “SHAO JI” and Chinese characters “筲箕” respectively, imbued with traditional sensibilities. Meanwhile, the two brands have fused their common signature colour blue into the visual design – dotted on the iconic ASICS stripes, GEL™ technology, heel loop and the outsole – in harmony with the overall beige, adding a retro touch. The sockliner features different SHAO JI prints that are typical in Southern China, suggesting the harmonious unity between humans and nature treasured by the traditional Chinese craftsmen.
The COSTS x ASICS GT-2160 will be available globally on the 28th of November from asics.com and selected ASICS stockists for $220 AUD.
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