The Tokyo-based sneaker design label KICKS LAB follows its pattern of collaboration with its latest project with ASICS, resulting in the KL-Shinobi sneakers. The collaborative shoes are a new version of the sleek GEL-Lyte III silhouette. With the concept of a shoe that is fit for the ninja lifestyle, the name of the collaborative piece came to be.
The KICKS LAB x ASICS KL-Shinobi sneakers boast a low top cut and rest on a GEL-cushioned foundation for maximized comfort. The monochromatic black, gray, and white colorway gives the shoe an overall clean and minimal look. The gray-scale follows throughout in the construction of the upper, using premium leather materials and suede paneling details. Additionally, both the insoles and outsoles nod to the silent mercenaries with design accents of Japanese characters.
Gel-Cushioned Sneakers
KICKS LAB and ASICS Join To Create The KL-Shinobi Shoes Fit for a Ninja
Trend Themes
1. Gel-lyte III Silhouette - A trend in footwear design that focuses on sleek and minimalist silhouettes, offering both style and comfort.
2. Monochromatic Colorways - A trend in fashion that emphasizes clean and minimal looks through the use of black, gray, and white color palettes.
3. Collaborative Sneaker Projects - A trend where fashion labels and footwear brands team up to create unique and innovative sneaker designs that cater to specific lifestyles or themes.
Industry Implications
1. Footwear Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new materials and cushioning technologies to enhance the comfort and performance of sneakers.
2. Fashion Retail - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate monochromatic colorways into clothing collections to meet the demand for minimalist fashion trends.
3. Collaborative Design - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Form strategic partnerships with different brands to create exclusive and limited-edition products that appeal to niche markets.