Kiko Kostadinov, the Bulgarian designer renowned for his innovative approach to footwear, has once again partnered with ASICS to create the ASICS UB7-S GT-2160. This latest collaboration showcases their commitment to pushing the boundaries of athletic shoe design.
The ASICS UB7-S GT-2160 builds upon the successful foundation of its predecessor, the UB-6, while introducing several groundbreaking features. The most notable addition is a diamond-shaped grid of mesh underneath the leather overlays, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.
Kostadinov’s design philosophy for this shoe revolves around the concept of “Functional Utopia.” This idea is expressed through the use of vivid primary colors that evoke natural elements, juxtaposed against reflective accents that hint at metallic structures. The result is a shoe that balances form and function in a visually striking package.
True to Kiko Kostadinov’s signature style, the collection offers two contrasting colorways. The first option features a nocturnal palette of deep jade, dark grey, and jet black, punctuated by electrifying neon yellow accents. This color scheme creates a bold, eye-catching look that’s sure to turn heads on the street or the track.
The second colorway takes a different approach, drawing inspiration from the iconic colors of New York City’s beloved basketball team. This version starts with a crisp white foundation, which serves as a canvas for vibrant shades of orange and blue. The crosshatch mesh on the base layer particularly showcases these lively hues, creating a dynamic visual effect.
While the colorways differ dramatically, both versions of the ASICS UB7-S GT-2160 share several key design elements. The cut-out layer at the heel, an exaggerated pull tab, and a segmented sole – all features carried over from the UB-6 – contribute to the shoe’s distinctive silhouette and enhanced functionality.
Kostadinov’s collaboration with ASICS has been one of the most fruitful partnerships in the sneaker world in recent years. Their consistent output and innovative designs have garnered attention from sneaker enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike. This latest release further cements their reputation for producing footwear that seamlessly blends style and performance.
Priced at $150, the Kiko Kostadinov ASICS UB7-S GT-2160 is scheduled for August 22nd.