ASICS and JUNTAE KIM Announce Collaborative GEL-KINETIC FR

SummaryASICS has partnered with designer Juntae Kim to introduce a hybrid footwear model titled the GEL-KINETIC FRThe silhouette explores a "Dressneaker" concept by merging traditional dress shoe elegance with functional sneaker designCustomizable elements include detachable flower motif hardware to provide versatile styling configurationsASICS and JUNTAE KIM have officially announced their upcoming collaborative footwear model, the ASICS x JUNTAE KIM GEL-KINETIC FR. The joint project introduces a unique hybrid silhouette that bridges the gap between traditional formal aesthetics and utilitarian sportswear.The collaborative footwear project is developed under the core design concept of the "Dressneaker". This approach intentionally combines the classic, refined mood of traditional dress shoes with the highly functional silhouette characteristic of ASICS performance sneakers. The resulting hybrid form is heavily infused with JUNTAE KIM’s signature aesthetic, which seamlessly balances romantic, elegant undertones with sharp, punk-inspired design codes.A key technical and visual feature of the shoe is the reinterpretation of the designer's signature flower motif. This artistic element is translated directly into custom, detachable hardware components placed on the upper. By making these decorative pieces removable, the design allows for multiple styling configurations within a single pair of shoes, offering wearers the flexibility to shift seamlessly between the elegance of a dress shoe and the raw attitude of a street sneaker. This adaptive architecture establishes a highly flexible approach to modern footwear design, engineered to be reinterpreted according to individual personality and environmental context.The ASICS x JUNTAE KIM GEL-KINETIC FR is officially scheduled to launch during the second half of 2026.Click here to view full gallery at Hypebeast