ASICS works in collaboration with Toyoda Gosei on a pair of the GEL-SONOMA 15-50 sneaker models. The shoes are artfully crafted with components from the automotive airbag industry with its elevated and progressive design. The silhouette focuses first and foremost on upcycling and the shoes highlight resource efficiency and bring a new standard when it comes to cross-industry creativity.
The stitching is specific to the airbag function and it is featured in a bold dual tonal pattern which honors the industrial heritage of the airbag itself. These stitching accents also function as decoration as a nod to protection and durability. The tongue is also a nod to the airbag inflation system while providing comfort with its plush form. The GEL-SONOMA 15-50 is rounded out by airbag numbering and vent holes for ventilation.
Image Credit: ASICS, Toyoda Gosei
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Upcycled-fashion
- The use of automotive airbag materials in sneaker design exemplifies innovative repurposing in fashion.
- Cross-industry Collaborations
- The collaboration between ASICS and Toyoda Gosei highlights the potential for diverse industries to co-create advanced products.
- Sustainable-sneaker Innovations
- Integrating resource-efficient materials in footwear demonstrates a new standard of sustainable fashion.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Footwear
- The footwear industry embraces creative material use and collaboration to enhance product offerings and sustainability.
- Automotive
- Automotive companies explore secondary markets by innovating uses for materials beyond their traditional applications.
- Textile Manufacturing
- Textile manufacturers find new value in producing materials tailored for multifunctional uses, such as automotive airbags in fashion.
