ASICS' "Academic Scholar" Pack Takes Inspiration from '90s Prep

ASICS is revealing the lineup for a new collection known as the “Academic Scholar” Pack. Made up of three new styles, the aforementioned collection delivers new takes on the GEL-KAYANO 26, the GEL-NIMBUS 21 and the GEl-KAYANO 5 OG.

The designs featured in the ASICS’ “Academic Scholar” Pack are inspired by ’90s fashion trends, particularly that era’s spin on prep gear. When crafting the shoes, ASICS looked to the build of “academy uniforms” and the “prep trends” of previous decades, aiming to seamlessly blend both approaches to fashion. This also serves as the very first time in ASICS’ lengthy history that the brand has decided to employ “heritage materials” in the construction of a contemporary performance runner. Altogether, this is an ode to the “timelessness” of ’90s American fashion.

For the GEL-KAYANO 26 and GEL-KAYANO 5 OG, luxe pigskin nubuck, suede and perforated leather paneling can be found all over the uppers. Both of those sneakers also boast DUOMAX technology in the midsole, which delivers “enhanced stability.” For optimal levels of comfort, GEL technology is used for the cushioning systems within the heel areas.

Influenced by “ivy league” looks, the “Academic Scholar” Pack’s GEL-NIMBUS 21 sports strong burgundy, navy and pine green tones, with an “engineered mesh” construction delivering that presentation . In contrast, the FLYTEFOAM Propel technology and GEL cushioning carried by ASICS’ modern performance runners are used in the production of the GEL-NIMBUS 21, giving this offering a modern edge. With these features, ASIS intend to bridge the gap “between archived design details and modernized performance running technology.”

You can take a look at all three sneakers that make up ASICS’ new “Academic Scholar” Pack above. Each pair will be available for purchase at multiple retailers and the official ASICS website starting September 6.

For more, revisit Vivienne Westwood and ASICS’ latest collaboration.