Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Asics sportstyle sneakers have long been a staple in the world of lifestyle sportswear, earning their place as one of the most iconic brands in the industry. As Indonesia’s sneaker culture continues to flourish, Asics has quickly become a favorite among footwear enthusiasts, offering a mix of history, innovation, and style that appeals to both collectors and casual wearers.
Founded by Kihachiro Onitsuka in 1949, the Japanese brand’s name is an acronym for the Latin phrase anima sana in corpore sano, meaning “a sound mind in a sound body.” Initially, Asics focused on producing basketball shoes, but over the years, it expanded its range to include a variety of styles that resonated across the globe.
One of Asics’ most famous models is the Mexico 66, the first to feature the now-iconic tiger stripe design. This shoe gained widespread recognition after Bruce Lee wore it in his final film, Game of Death, which elevated its popularity in Asian markets. It has since become a timeless classic, cherished by sneakerheads and collectors alike.
In the early 1960s, Phil Knight, then a track coach, approached Asics with hopes of becoming their first U.S.-based salesman. Knight, a fan of Asics trainers, worked with the brand for several years. However, the relationship eventually soured, leading Knight to establish his own sportswear label.
Once known as the go-to brand for practical sneakers, often worn for tasks like lawn mowing, Asics has experienced a resurgence as notable sportstyle sneakers in recent years. This newfound popularity is largely thanks to high-profile collaborations that have strengthened the brand’s place as one of the most hyped names in sneaker culture worldwide. Indonesia, has also embraced this trend, with Asics collaborations becoming a key driver of the sneaker scene.
Notable Collaborations Sparking Sneaker Culture in Indonesia
Asics Gel-Kayano 14 x JJJJound Collaboration
No conversation about Asics collaborations would be complete without mentioning JJJJound. Founded in 2006 by Justin Saunders, JJJJound started as a social media mood board and has since evolved into a global fashion brand, best known for its collaborations with New Balance. So when JJJJound teamed up with Asics for a collection in mid-2022, sneaker fans were eager to get their hands on the new designs.
The JJJJound take on the Gel-Kayano 14 might look similar to other models in the Gel-Kayano line, but that didn’t stop it from flying off the shelves. The minimalist design, coupled with the brand’s reputation, made it a highly sought-after release that sneakerheads in Indonesia and beyond quickly snapped up.
Kith x Asics Gel-Kayano 12.1 Pack by Ronnie Fieg
Long before Ronnie Fieg became a household name in the world of streetwear, his early partnership with Asics laid the groundwork for what would become some of the most coveted collaborations in sneaker culture. First introduced in 2006, the GEL-Kayano 12 was initially known for its superior support and comfort, making it a favorite among runners.
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Today, the Kith x GEL-Kayano 12 collaboration has transformed this legendary running shoe into a highly desired lifestyle sneaker. Ronnie Fieg’s version stays true to the classic design but adds a touch of luxury and sophistication. He also redesigned the sole from scratch, giving it a more lifestyle-focused appeal, which resonated with a new generation of sneaker enthusiasts.
Nearly two decades later, the Kith x Asics Gel-Kayano 12.1 still holds the same appeal as its original iteration, proving that classic designs with modern tweaks continue to capture the attention of sneaker collectors worldwide, including those in Indonesia.
Asics in Indonesia: From Lawn Sneakers to Streetwear Staple
What was once a brand associated with practical, everyday use has now become a symbol of high fashion and streetwear in Indonesia. Thanks to strategic collaborations with big names like JJJJound and Ronnie Fieg, Asics has successfully tapped into the growing sneaker culture, making it a go-to brand for those looking for both style and substance.
As sneaker culture continues to expand in Indonesia, Asics sportstyle sneakers is poised to remain a dominant player, offering fans a rich history combined with cutting-edge collaborations that keep the brand relevant in an ever-changing market.
(Raidi/Agung)
