With the GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS, ASICS and HAL STUDIOS DESIGN THINKING continue their footwear partnership.

The model introduces the new H.S.D.T. Signature Series and will release in January 2026 as the first drop within this concept-driven line.

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The GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS combines ASICS’ running DNA with the concept-driven design approach of HAL STUDIOS.

Under the overarching theme “The Architecture of Everyday Life,” the focus shifts away from peak athletic performance and familiar cityscapes toward the everyday structures of the city and the way people move through urban spaces.

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The project centers on New York City in the 1990s, a period in which cityscape, music and street culture were closely intertwined.

Reflecting this context, the accompanying stills feature Nas and Raekwon of the Wu-Tang Clan, two icons of New York’s music scene whose influence helps anchor the GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS culturally. The imagery is further complemented by figures from New York’s creative scene, including Lichen, Throwing Fits and Public Records.

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Rather than being conceived as a one-off capsule, the Signature Series is designed as an ongoing line, with each new release built around its own thematic framework.

High-quality materials and narrative depth form the foundation of the series, giving every release a clearly defined conceptual identity.

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For the opening release, HAL STUDIOS draws on the concept of Blue-Collar Luxury. Visual references are rooted in the everyday cityscape, including steel girders, concrete surfaces, scaffolding and weathered metal.

Functional, industrial elements are translated into a restrained, high-quality design language. ASICS provides the technical foundation and comfort, while HAL STUDIOS adds philosophical depth through a material-driven, detail-focused approach.

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The GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS will release in two earthy colorways, “Shaolin ’93” and “Queens ’94.” Both variants draw on key cultural references and connect the design to New York’s music and street culture of the 1990s.

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“Shaolin ’93” draws on the hip-hop rooted nickname “Shaolin” for Staten Island, expressed through muted, raw tones inspired by worn concrete and the textures of the street.

“Queens ’94” leans into cooler, industrial greys, reflecting bridges, railway lines and construction sites that define the everyday cityscape of Queens.

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From a technical standpoint, the GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS remains anchored in the proven GEL-NYC platform, delivering the familiar level of comfort.

The upper features deliberately layered materials and panel structures, with lines informed by scaffolding, metal grids and utilitarian architecture. Branding is kept understated, allowing textures, materials and proportions to define the visual statement.

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The ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS Pack will release this month and will be available at selected retailers like 43einhalb, AFEW Store, BSTN, Asphaltgold, HHV and SUPPA.

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Photos via ASICS