Asics’ GEL-Kayano history drifts back to 1993, where their FIRST instalment in the sneaker’s synonymous series hit shelves. Designer, TOSHIKAZU KAYANO, took inspiration from insect EXOSKELETONS, pairing this with an unequivocal love for running and indoor training in equal proportions. Alas, his concoction birthed a silhouette that supported all aspects of Kayano’s needs, in tandem with looking good amidst footwear options sprawled across the owner’s shelf - or floor.
A trait taking top-spot within the modern-day sneaker’s plethora of essentialities whilst remaining an infinitely crucial part of every athlete’s staple get-up, is functionality. In theory, any sketch may look great, almost FLAWLESS on paper ahead of pending samples and performance testing - but this doesn't guarantee a blemish-free practise of purpose. Fortunately for Toshikazu, there’s a reason his legacy continues with inexorable might; this was an example of everything ASICS had to come.
In more recent history, the UB1-S Gel-Kayano 14 marked Kiko Kostadinov’s first silhouette launched in succession to his design team’s infiltration of ASICS HQ; leading on from their already powerful arsenal of collaborative efforts.
Take a closer look at the GEL-Kayano 14, perhaps you’ll find our not-so-Kayano spoiler!
What’s your favourite GEL-Kayano collaboration? Let us know below.
