The Iconic Asics Gel Lyte III
Asics takes its name from an acronym of the Latin phrase "anima sang in corpore sano" that translates as "a healthy mind in a healthy body". This phrase was Mr Onitsuka's mantra throughout the development of his company from the start in 1949.
Decades on from the launch of its first running shoe, the Asics Gel shoe was created in 1986 with the development of the 'Gel' cushioning technology, originally developed for Asics performance running shoes. The 'Gel' technology was developed to reduce the chance of runners being impeded by impact injuries with silicone-based ‘Gel’ substance embedded into the EVA midsole, specifically placed to absorb shock and vibration.
The shoe quickly evolved and The Gel Lyte II was launched in 1989, quickly followed by the Gel Lyte III the following year. The Gel Lyte III quickly became one of the most popular Asics shoes of all time. In addition to being a track favourite initially due to its weight and construction, it very quickly gained traction as a lifestyle shoe as trainer culture became mainstream in the early 1990's. The Asics Gel Lyte III - streetwear with an edge and a flamboyant design.
The architect of the Asics Gel Lyte III was head designer Shigeyuki Mitsui. A pioneer in shoe design, he set out to create a performance shoe that was both functional and stylish. In the Gel Lyte III Mitsui designed the most iconic shoe that that brand has ever made. With its innovative split tongue, a trademark for the Gel Lyte III, the shoe became a cult classic with a huge global following, and a true legend of the sneaker world!
Over the years Asics have collaborated with many, from Patta and Alife, The streetwear mogul Ronnie Fieg, Sneaker Freaker with the stunning Tiger Snake, Atmos, Sole Box, Kith, Reigning Champ and high fashion brand Comme des Garçons.
In 2020 the company celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Asics Gel Lyte III. To commemorate the event, the brand released a commemorative shoe in an original colourway, designed by the legend Shigeyuki Mitsui as the designer entered his final year of an illustrious career with Asics. The classic Gel Lyte III look with citrus tones, green accents and its signature split tongue. The perfect revival!
Featuring contrasting materials and signature vibrant colourways, and its trademark split tongue.
Limited stocks of this limited edition shoe are still available, take a closer look at the Asics Gel Lyte III OG 30th Anniversary shoe and the range of Asics Gel Lyte III trainers from www.getsoled.com