PENSOLE Crafts ASICS GEL-Kayano Trainer OG and GEL-DS Trainer OG

Continuing a partnership that was formulated in 2015, footwear design academy PENSOLE and ASICS have released two new shoes in collaboration with Foot Locker. Crafted by students from PENSOLE’s “Fueling the Future of Footwear” 2018 Master Class, the offerings consist of a GEL-Kayano Trainer OG and a GEL-DS Trainer OG, each resplendent with bold colors and offering a unique theme.

The GEL-Kayano Trainer OG’s red, black and gold color scheme is inspired by the Daruma doll. This traditional Japanese figurine symbolizes good luck, perseverance and goal-setting — a trio of traits any footwear designer needs to succeed. Uppers are dressed in a light red mesh that’s topped by a darker red suede. Touches of gold patent leather coat the eyestays and heel, with a black suede ASICS overlay supplying branded style on the midfoot. Special Japanese kanji and PENSOLE wordmarks are also present, the former on the forefoot and the latter on the heel. A white midsole with red GEL cushioning and graffiti detailing on the plastic midfoot shank complete the look.

Meanwhile, the GEL-DS Trainer OG nods to Japan as well with a design that aims to bridge traditional Japanese and modern American art. This mix of Eastern and Western civilization is kicked off by cool blue and bright red hues, with black and white accents providing a middle ground. The design’s signature detail, however, is present on the heel counter, which overlays heritage Japanese patterns with bold graffiti hits, aiming to show that two vastly divergent styles can coexist. Special tongue badges, PENSOLE heel embroidery and a sleek midsole round everything off.

The PENSOLE x ASICS GEL-Kayano Trainer OG and GEL-DS Trainer OG are both available at Foot Locker, with the former retailing for $130 USD while the latter is priced at $120 USD.

If a more muted look is your style, check out two premium takes on Nike‘s beloved Air Force 1: “Black Pack” and “White/Vachetta Tan.”