When it comes to selecting collaborators, Asics doesnât copy any other sneaker brandâs playbook. Despite its recent mainstream hits, the Japanese maker has always largely catered to a niche audience and seems to value finding collaborators with the same ethos. Whether thatâs eclectic brands like Bentgablenits or gorpy gods like Haven, theyâve got a great eye for designers with rich, distinct visions.
Story mfg. is the latest and greatest addition to the family. The Brighton-based brand was founded by Saeed and Katy Al-Rubeyi back in 2013, long before âsustainabilityâ became fashionâs ultimate buzzword. They never cut corners in crafting their clothes, prioritizing ethically-sourced textiles, an adherence to making vegan-friendly product, and minimizing the use of harmful chemicals in any of their manufacturing processes. Itâs worth noting that none of this matters if a brand isnât making dope clothes, and Story Mfg. very much does. They bring their artful eye for color and print to drapey, modern silhouettes. Story Mfg.âs clothes are practical and functional, but theyâre also joyful and expressiveâthe furthest thing from boring.
The labelâs Asics debut, then, is just about everything youâd want from a Story mfg. shoe. The collaboration consists of two colorways of the Asics Gel-Venture 6: The first blends creamy vanilla tones with spring-friendly violet accents, while the second decks the silhouette out in a chocolatey brown. Checkered prints adorn both shoes, as do big, floppy checkered laces. Itâs a fashion-forward look, sureâbut itâs also extremely fun.
Weâd call this one a match made in sneaker heaven. The partnership between Asics and Story mfg. is off to a great start, and weâre certainly hoping itâs far from finished. After a limited (and instantly sold-out) drop through Story mfg. last week, the shoes will receive a proper global release on April 18 through Asics and selected retail partners. Each pair goes for $160.