Claiming that Japanese multinational Asics is a legacy brand with a long history and reputation that has built a strong, positive reputation over the years for creating quality, affordable daily trainers would be an understatement par excellence.
With the name being an acronym of the Latin phrase “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano”, i.e. the holistic ethos of a sound mind inhabiting a healthy body and a history spanning over seven decades, there has been no shortage when it comes to the incorporation of new shoe technologies into the brand’s DNA a bid to create the best training and running shoes possible.
Given how much we have appreciated Asics’ kicks for their highly supportive, well-cushioned durable running shoes over the years, especially since the recent introduction of lightweight foams, we could not help but get excited when word around the campfire had that Asics was going to herald yet another era of new technologies:
Propelling the depth of cushioning forward based on research conducted by the Asics Institute of Sports Science, the GEL-QUANTUM 360 VII sneaker’s GEL technology is structured in a manner to create better shock absorption underfoot with a softer feeling at foot strike.
Shaped like a scutoid, i.e. a three dimensional contour based on a geometric solid between two parallel surfaces, the GEL-QUANTUM 360 VII allows for more natural, flexible movements, while the FF BLAST cushioning has been dialled up, re-tuned and calibrated at a level that not only ensures optimal rearfoot shock absorption but makes the kicks suitable for everyday purposes.
Another series we love not merely for its upper construction being an homage to the classic and timeless GEL-NIMBUS 3 from almost three decades ago and marrying it with subtle references to the MC-PLUS V design, but for the fact that it is inspired by the brand that has been concepted by Asics Collective leader Angelo Baque, i.e. Awake NY, is the GEL-NYC capsule.
Nuancefully contrasting the upper's retro influences by using the GEL-CUMULUS 16 tooling system, the midsole is on the higher end of underfoot comfort provision courtesy of a hybrid of the aforementioned lightweight foams and GEL technology inserts.
If you are more partial to retro-basketball inspired sneaker styles, you’d find yourself hard-pressed to go past the modern take on an old-time favourite that is the nostalgic and fun Asics’ EX89 - especially since they are way more comfortable than other 1980s inspired footgear due to Asics’ FF BLAST cushioning and the use of ortholite insoles.
Providing great traction and proving to be well-gripped on wet surfaces, this casual and sporty little number is made to take on colder and challenging climates as well as wet pavements with the added benefit that dirt and mud can be cleaned off easily.
Subtle nuances like the fact that the upper’s layered leather construction is enhanced by spirited colour blocking that matches the era’s iconic NBA team uniforms and the outsole’s layout designed to mirror the view of a city from the sky, only adds to the appeal.
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Words by AW.
Photos courtesy of Asics.