ASICS x The Soloist Unveil Chelsea Boot/ Runner Hybrid

Apparently New Balance isn’t the only sneaker brand looking to switch things up for 2024, as ASICS has unveiled its latest project with Takahiro Miyashita, a.k.a The Soloist, working on a Chelsea boot hybrid that looks to directly rival the cross sectional sensibilities of New Balance’s controversial 1906L loafers.

ASICS and The Soloist first released the design in late 2022 and while it might’ve flown under the radar at the time, with current trend forecasts claiming “sneakers are dying” and brands like Nike and adidas reporting struggles on the sales front, now could be the perfect time for ASICS to re-introduce the Gel-Quantum 360 Chelsea Boot into mass circulation.

The collaboration does exactly what it says on the tin, fusing the sleek uppers of a traditional Chelsea boot with a techy midsole directly borrowed from Asics’ Gel-Quantum 360 runner, bringing all of its comfort-focused, shock-absorbing properties in tow.

Slight tweaks to the iconic style (besides the obvious) include angled-off side gussets and a strip of suede along the heel that extends to the rear pull tab.

The final contemporary touch arrives in the form of an embossed ASICS logo inscribed at the collar.

The ASICS x The Soloist Gel-Quantum 360 Chelsea Boots will be available Friday, April 26th on Asics.com with a retail price of $199 USD.