Since launching its “Crafts for Minds” initiative in 2021, ASICS has been on a mission to fuse mental well-being with the art of sneaker-making, spotlighting the craftsmanship behind its purpose-driven designs. This innovative program has already brought the brand into collaboration with avant-garde creatives like Helen Kirkum, Florence Tétier, and KASSL Editions, each adding their unique flair to ASICS’ legacy. Now, the Japanese footwear giant is teaming up with Nanushka, a Hungarian luxury brand known for its refined aesthetic, to breathe fresh life into the project. Together, they’ve unveiled a striking new take on the GEL-KINETIC FLUENT, a sneaker that seamlessly marries performance and fashion-forward design.
This latest iteration reimagines ASICS’ storied running heritage through Nanushka’s sophisticated perspective. The design boasts a chic color palette of greys and whites, punctuated by black stitching that traces the brand’s signature stripes, creating a sleek and modern contrast. The black tongue and heel add a final flourish, blending high-performance technology with a laid-back, beachy vibe that feels effortlessly cool. It’s a perfect harmony of form and function, proving that a sneaker can be both a technical marvel and a style statement.
“Collaborating with ASICS on Nanushka’s first sneaker felt natural, given our shared focus on movement and design integrity. ASICS has always been my go-to for sneakers that prioritize motion, aligning perfectly with my design philosophy. The organic shapes of nature are a key source of inspiration, both for my creativity and personal balance. This collaboration marks an exciting milestone as we step into a new decade and celebrate the brand’s 20th anniversary,”
- Sandra Sándor, founder and creative director of Nanushka.
But this collaboration goes beyond aesthetics—it’s rooted in purpose. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mind Over Mountains, a charity that combines professional mental health support with the restorative power of nature and mindful movement, aligning beautifully with the “Crafts for Minds” ethos. Sandra Sándor, Nanushka’s founder and creative director, reflects on the partnership: “Collaborating with ASICS on Nanushka’s first sneaker felt natural, given our shared focus on movement and design integrity. ASICS has always been my go-to for motion-first sneakers, and the organic shapes of nature inspire both my creativity and personal balance. This marks an exciting milestone as we celebrate Nanushka’s 20th anniversary and step into a new decade.”
The GEL-KINETIC FLUENT by Nanushka and ASICS is available now on Nanushka’s website.
Photos: ASICS / NANUSHKA