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Asics Just Dropped the Coolest Sneaker of the Summer

If you’re into performance materials, a heritage sporty aesthetic and easy-on comfort, you can’t go wrong with Asics’ latest hybrid sneaker.

Gray mesh running shoe with synthetic overlays and laces against a blue background.Asics
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By Hayley Helms

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The Gel-1130 is one of the most popular, bestselling retro-styled sneakers on the market, continuing to dominate sales after its 2021 reissue.

Not content to rest on its performance-inspired laurels, Asics just gave its perpetually appealing sneaker a hybrid makeover.

Pair of black and silver ASICS athletic shoes with mesh fabric and lace-up closure.
The Black/Graphite Grey colorway will give a futuristic, sporty vibe to any summer ‘fit.
Asics

The Gel-1130 Mule ditches one of the most traditional parts of standard sneakers, yielding a lighter, trend-forward look without sacrificing comfort.

Stylish as a mule

The mule-ification of conventional, popular silhouettes is a growing trend in footwear, and Asics’ take on the style sees its iconic gel midsole maintained, adding style while subtracting substance.

Gray mesh and synthetic slip-on sneaker with white and black sole and lace-up front.
Gel technology underfoot confirms the mule’s dedication to all-day comfort, complemented by a trendy tweak.
Asics

The Gel-1130 Mule modifies the original Gel-1000 series with a slip-on construction that refreshes the well-known shoe without altering its core DNA.

Breathable mesh underlays add more ventilation, along with the open-back construction.

Pair of white and silver mesh slip-on sneakers with black inner lining and beige soles.
The White/Clay Canyon colorway brings warm neutrals to the hybrid style.
Asics

The mule-specific ninth iteration of the Gel-1000 series preserves the shoe’s gel shock-absorption tech underfoot, as well as the proprietary rigid resin insert embedded in the midfoot for stability.

Pair of gray mesh sneakers viewed from the back showing padded collars and white midsoles with visible air cushioning.
The backless construction is complemented by the breathable mesh underlays, making this a deceptively fresh choice for summer.
Asics

The new hybrid model comes in three neutral, sporty colorways: Cement Grey/Lake Grey, Black/Graphite Grey and White/Clay Canyon.

Black and gray mesh slip-on sneaker with white and gray accents and a thick sole.
The Y2K styling of the original Gel-1130 is preserved in this new model, blending dual trends: 2000s-era aesthetics and hybrid sneakers.
Asics

The Gel-1130 Mule’s open-heel design is ideal for the warmer months ahead, and combines a contemporary look with a supportive fit.

Availability and pricing

The Gel-1130 Mule is available now on Asics’ website, retailing for $130.

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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