The first joint project between NEEDLES and ASICS: Based on the high-end basketball shoe EX 89, which was launched by ASICS in 1989, this collab features a distinctive purple color contrast on the seams and lining.

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The tongue and heel are decorated with the Needles Papillon motif, as well as the logos of the two brands.

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The EX89 sneaker combines the traditional influences of the GEL-EXTREME basketball shoe from 1989 with modern cushioning properties.

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It was originally created by Toshikazu Kayano in the late 1980s as his first design project for ASICS.

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Back then, the multi-layered leather construction of the upper material was decorated with bold color blockings that matched the iconic NBA team wear of the era.

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By the way, the EX89's damping system has been updated with ASICS FF BLAST technology.

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The ASICS x Needles collab is available October 7th via 43einhalb, a.plus, Allike, AFEW Store and Asphaltgold.

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Photos via ASICS