Asics’ New Release Is Part Dad Shoe, Part Streetstyle Stunner

The refreshingly contemporary Gel-Kinetic SP gets a new look that is equal parts functional and fashion-forward.

Pair of brown suede and leather sneakers with black soles viewed from the back against a blue background.

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Asics’ sneaker-loafer hybrid Gel-Kinetic SP made its debut under a year ago, but the premium blend of sporty and sophisticated aesthetics and features has already made a name for itself in sneaker culture.

Now, the formal-to-casual silhouette is getting a functional and fashionable makeover with global appeal, courtesy of a collaboration between the popular Japanese footwear brand and Studio Nicholson, the high-end, London-based fashion label.

Pair of brown suede sneakers with black chunky soles and zipper closures. — While there are plenty of sneaker hybrids to choose from these days, Asics’ is arguably the best balance of sophisticated vibes on top and performance on bottom.

Zip it!

“Understated elegance” would best describe the aesthetic of the new Studio Nicholson x Asics GEL-Kinetic SP, which arrives in two luxurious monochrome color options.

Pair of black suede sneakers with chunky soles and zippers, next to a pair of brown suede sneakers with similar design. — Both the muted black and chocolatey brown colorways give the Gel-Kinetic SP a soft yet premium feel, without sacrificing capability.

Both the black and brown colorways are designed with a soft suede upper complemented by perforated leather panels on the front side panels of the shoe and heel, with an additional soft leather detail appearing around the ankle collar.

The glossy outsole adds contrast to the textured suede upper, and mixes in a sporty detail that adds to the performance-inspired shape of the Gel units in the heel.

Close-up of a brown suede shoe with a partially open metal zipper and visible stitching. — The classic lace closure is swapped out for a streamlined zipper, which gives the shoe a luxury feel and makes getting in and out of it quicker than ever.

Pair of brown suede and leather sneakers with black glossy segmented soles, viewed from the back. — Glossy Gel units in the heel provide Asics’ legendary performance and cushioning, while also adding a dynamic contrast to the soft suede.

The most noticeable change happening in the collaborative take on the Gel-Kinetic SP is the new zip closure.

The original version had a traditional lace-up design, but this new release swaps that out for a streamlined, simplified zipper with a coordinating suede pull tassel.

Pair of black suede sneakers with zipper closure and black rubber soles viewed from above. — The Studio Nicholson x Asics Gel-Kinetic SP could easily pull double duty as a dress shoe or daily driver.

The Gel-Kinetic SP’s minimalist, textured material swap, along with its subtly functional details, challenge the current low-profile sneaker craze, and offer a refined alternative for those looking for a comfortable sneaker that can be dressed up or down.

Availability and pricing

The Studio Nicholson x Asics GEL-Kinetic SP debuted today with an exclusive pop-up in South Korea, with a wider release in Japan and China scheduled for mid-July.

The shoes will retail for £235 (approximately $315 USD).

Dark brown suede sneakers with perforated leather side panels and glossy black sculpted soles.

Studio Nicholson x Asics Gel-Kinetic SP

$315 at Asics

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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