ASICS x Kengo Kuma combines tradition and technology

In yet another innovative collaboration, ASICS has teamed up with Japanese architect Kengo Kuma to rethink the Metaride silhouette.

Kengo Kuma's architectural design philosophy emphasizes the revival of Japanese tradition, aiming to reinterpret it in a contemporary manner in his constructions.

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Kuma is also an award-winning writer with the title of Officier de L'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in France. His books explore the relationship between architecture and the environment and how to respect - not dominate - the surroundings of the buildings.

His projects demonstrate an interest in manipulating natural light through materials. The sense of immateriality is one of the characteristics of his work, where spaces are intentionally left as a consequence of the natural particularity of light entering the spaces and establishing an interior x exterior relationship.

Metaride AMU

For his collaboration with ASICS, the architect revisited the yatara ami technique (a type of "bamboo knitting") to create a sock-like upper overlaid with strips that interlace to form layers, adapting to the natural movement of the feet.

Made from recycled polyester, the strips were strategically positioned to provide more support for the wearer, as well as forming the logo of the Japanese brand on the side.

"Originally, Japanese culture was based on connecting lines. A single line is weak, but several lines together are strong. The yatara ami technique combines delicacy and functionality and works very well in modern designs."

Kengo Kuma on the use of the yatara ami technique

The midsole brings contrast to the almost monochromatic silhouette. This part of the shoe was left in the original color of the material it is made of (nanofibers of cellulose), at the architect's request. The result is a midsole that visually simulates the aspects of bamboo while providing comfort and durability.

Only 2020 pairs of the Metaride AMU - a creation that Kengo Kuma calls "his smallest building made to date" - have been manufactured and will be sold starting December 20. The price is estimated at $360, with no forecast for sales in Brazil.