# Updated 90s-Style Sneakers The Asics Gel Kayano Trainer 21 Mixes Old and New Aesthetics By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2021-05-15 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/asics-gel-kayano-trainer-21 References: [uncrate](https://uncrate.com/asics-gel-kayano-trainer-21-sneakers/) & [asics](https://www.asics.com) The Asics Gel Kayano Trainer 21 sneakers are a balanced footwear style for wearers in search of a supportive yet stylish option to incorporate into their wardrobe that won't disappoint when it comes to comfort. The sneakers are based on the original mono-sock design of the Gel-Kayano Trainer from the 90s, but have been paired with a pigskin nubuck upper section with perforated underlays. This gives the footwear style its distinct look to accommodate wearers with a penchant for retro sneaker styles. The Asics Gel Kayano Trainer 21 sneakers are paired with gel cushioning on the heel and forefoot in order to make them as comfortable as possible when being worn casually or for more intensive sports. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.2/10 - Popularity: 77% | Activity: 40% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Retro-inspired Sneakers:** Opportunity for brands to mix old and new aesthetics in their product designs. - **Comfortable Sports Footwear:** Opportunity for innovation in sneaker cushioning technology and materials. - **Perforated Sneaker Designs:** Opportunity for sneaker brands to experiment with perforated underlays and uppers. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Sports Footwear:** Asics and other sports footwear brands can continue to innovate in cushioning technology and design. - **Fashion:** Fashion brands can add retro-inspired sneakers to their collections, appealing to those with nostalgia for the 90s. - **Perforation Technology:** Companies can explore the use of perforated materials and underlays in different products, not just footwear. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Stylish Technical Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/small-wins-add-up.md) - [Tech-Infused Dynamic Sneaker Models](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gelkayano-20-1.md) - [Velcro-Enclosed Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hal-studios-1.md) - [Highly Technical Sleek Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gelkayano-20-2.md) - [Dynamic Tonal Sleek Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blue-neptune.md) - [Metallic Color-Blocked Tech Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gel-kayano-14-sneaker.md) - [Metallic-Accented Lifestyle Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gelkayano-14-6.md) - [Stability-Centric Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gelkayano-32.md) - [Nature-Inspired Collaborative Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ub10s-gelkayano-20.md)