Continuing the Gel Lyte III’s 25th anniversary celebrations, Asics link up once again with German sneaker store AFEW to present a refined version of their 1-of-1 handmade edition’s from back in 2012, which went by the same name of “Koi Klub”.
In paying homage to Japanese culture and lifestyle, in which high importance is placed on quality craftsmanship, this is also true celebration of sneaker culture, with every detail of the design through to the application and finish meticulously thought out. The colour way of white, red and black references the iconic Koi fish which has strong ties to Japanese culture and traditions. The shoes upper is constructed from a nappy suede with off white colouring on the mid-foot and red on the perforated toe box and heel, finished with hits of black on the Asics branding. The plush upper sits on top of a crisp white midsole and a ‘Koi Camo’ outsole, while additional details include wooden lace eyelets, brown leather accents and embossed AFEW branding on the heel.
Looking closer at the shoe, you also small touches that really complete the look, with two heel patches on each shoe, one reading “AFEW” and the other “家族” which translates as ‘family’. Finally as a nod to the pairs efforts back in 2012, the sock liners feature pictures from the first Japan Day event while the other shows the process of hand making the original pair.
The Asics x AFEW Gel Lyte III ‘Koi Klub’ launches on Saturday the 30th of May (tomorrow) online at Hanon and in store at END.
