Asics Gives Luxurious Update to Its X-Caliber Sneaker With New Corthay Collaboration
Stephen Garner
Senior Editor
Asics gets a luxurious upgrade in its latest collaboration.
According to the Japanese sportswear brand, it has teamed up with French shoe designer Pierre Corthay to update the Asics X-Caliber sneaker model. The shoe, made popular in the 1980s, was a best-selling model for marathon runners at the time, Corthay noted.
Dubbed the En Piste Hybrid, the shoe features the X-Caliber’s signature wave design to allow the foot to bend as well as Corthay’s signature patina technique resulting in a monochromatic design. Made of calfskin uppers in Japan, the shoe also features the Asics signature tiger stripes, comfort sole and is lines in GoreTex.
The duo has also teamed up on a sport model inspired by Asics Gel-Lyte Speed sneaker from the ‘90s. Dubbed the Asics x Corthay Sporty, the shoe is made of calfskin and features a touch of patent leather.
Collaborations like this one are nothing new for Asics, with recent tie ups with Bodega, Gallery Dept., Concepts, JJJJound, Cecilie Bahnsen and Ronnie Feig. Seldom, though, are they at a luxury price point. According to the French footwear brand, its new collaboration with Asics will set you back $1,295 a pair.
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Corthay got its start in 1990 in Paris and is known for its signature patina treatments. In March 2004, Corthay expanded to Japan, opening boutiques in Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka.
The French brand’s connection to Japan was reinforced with the brand’s collaboration with Yohji Yamamoto, where the designer invited Corthay to create a shoe for the Y’Classic collection.
Today, the over 30-year-old company is known for its Goodyear-welted modern footwear handmade in France. There are several Corthay boutiques internationally, with distribution in North America retailers including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Leffot and other key specialty stores.
The new Corthay x Asics En Piste Hybrid sneaker will be available in three colorways on Feb. 1 at Leffot boutique in New York City.
