ASICS and the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma have worked together for the third time and now present the Archisite ORU.

The design is intended to convey new values to people, in line with Kuma's principle: “Visit places directly and listen to local stories.”

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The structure of the sneaker was therefore designed to support him in his daily work and, for example, enables him to move around both on construction sites and in a relaxed environment such as a hotel without changing shoes.

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The outer material of the sneaker consists of two layers: a kind of hood and a sandal-like upper that shows through underneath. The name of the sneaker “ORU” stands for “fold”, which alludes to the folding technique of the outer material, which is reminiscent of origami and similar techniques.

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The outer material is made from extremely durable materials that are commonly used in outdoor equipment and are designed for use in various environments.

The elastic lacing structure, which runs through the entire shoe from outside to inside, transforms it into a more open and sandal-like shoe by removing the laces.

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The midsole is equipped with FF BLAST technology, which is based on plant-based cellulose nanofibers, and the outsole features ASICSGRIP technology, which is known for its excellent slip resistance and is also used in trail running models.

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Kengo Kuma was born in 1954. He founded the firm Kengo Kuma & Associates in 1990. He is currently a university professor and emeritus professor at Tokyo University, having taught at Keio University and Tokyo University.

KKAA projects are currently being carried out in over 50 countries. With his architecture, Kengo Kuma wants to create new connections between nature, technology and people.

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In 2019, Asics worked with Kengo Kuma for the first time. The METARIDE AMU, which is based on long-distance runner METARIDE, was successful with runners all over the world. This is the third collaboration, but the first in the ASICS lifestyle segment.

The ASICS x Kengo Kuma Archisite ORU is available now at AFEW-Store, Asphaltgold and VooStore.

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Photos via ASICS