Kiko Kostadinov and ASICS' Gel Kiril 3 Celebrates Japanese Workwear
Offering two pared back colorways that borrow key elements from the shoemaker’s work-geared designs.
Kiko Kostadinov and ASICS continue to evolve the London-based designer’s Gel Kiril in its third generation, with two all-new colorways and upgraded details. The ASICS Gel-Kiril 3 results from research into the evolution of Japanese worker uniforms, executed through the lens of ASICS’ technical expertise and Kostadinov’s cutting-edge vision. A favorite collaborator of the Japanese runner brand, Kostadinov continues to challenge ASICS’ design aesthetic with unconventional details and forward-thinking sensibilities.
The in-motion campaign illustrates the worker-centered inspirations behind the design. Shot an hour outside of Tokyo, the images feature actual workers, Daisuke, Kenta, and Rikiya building traditional scaffolding in Chiba. Drawing on ASICS’ past workwear footwear offerings, the new model focuses on utilitarian elements, introducing a raised TPU front and a debossed pattern on the lateral overlays, providing a distressed, almost reptilian feel to the shoes.
The Gel Kirin 3 will be available in a tonal brown colorway with pops of yellow and a mostly black variant featuring electric blue overlays. Bold textures and embossed patterns converge on the uppers and continue on the onto the outsoles, adding an eccentric touch to the durable shoes.
Ahead of the release, a series of activations are planned in Los Angeles, CA and London, England. The Los Angeles store will host a performance by Jade Guanaro Kuriki-Olivo on February 21, and on next day the London event at the ICA will host performances by Patrick Belaga and Bill Kouligas.
Kiko Kostadinov’s Asics Gel-Kiril 3 will be sold at both events, followed by a digital release on Monday, February 24 at 10 am GMT at the brand’s web store.
