Asics and Los Angeles-based fashion label Airei have partnered on a super-limited sneaker that’s been set on fire.
Only 30 pairs of the Asics Gel-Quantum Kinetic have been made with a handwoven khadi gauze, a fabric made in India without the use of electricity. Airei, which hand-makes all of its pieces, then set each pair ablaze to reveal the all-black sneaker beneath with a unique finish imparted by the flames.
Even though this unusual form of distressing has already been done for you, the shoes will also come with matches should you decide to continue the process yourself. The boxes have also been wrapped in the same gauze, so you can still participate in the torching without involving the shoes.
“Flames symbolize immersion in a noble cause, fabrics bearing scars and challenges overcome,” Airei said in a product description for the sneaker.
Sneakers with an outer layer intentionally been made to reveal more underneath are hardly new — Nike SB has a long history of Dunks that do just that — but Airei’s project with Asics makes the idea more radical with the slight lure of danger that will always come with fire.
Airei and Asics previously collaborated last year on GT-2160 covered in plaster and released in just 50 pairs.
The Airei x Asics Gel-Quantum Kinetic will release Thursday to coincide with the Felix Art Fair in Los Angeles. Pairs will only be available at Dover Street Market’s booth at the fair, and tickets aren’t needed to access the space. Pricing is set at $265.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
