Get ready for a wild ride with Kiko Kostadinov's latest collaboration with Asics! The split-toe sneakers that took Paris Fashion Week by storm are finally here, and they're about to shake up the world of athletic footwear.
Kiko Kostadinov, the Bulgarian designer known for his unconventional yet captivating creations, has teamed up with the Japanese sportswear giant Asics to create a shoe that challenges traditional norms. From boxing-inspired high-tops to bold color combinations, their past collaborations have already left a mark on the industry. But here's where it gets controversial: they're taking on the ever-polarizing tabi-toe design, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
The Kiko Kostadinov x Asics Ilargi FF, also known as the Tabi, made its debut on the runway in June, and now it's ready to hit the streets. With a lightweight knit upper and a FlyteFoam midsole, these sneakers offer both style and comfort. But the real standout feature is the split tabi-toe construction, a design that has been a trend since the 2010s but rarely seen on technical running shoes.
And this is the part most people miss: Asics has a history with tabi shoes! In 1953, when they were still known as Onitsuka Tiger, they released the Marathon Tabi, one of the first mass-marketed tabi athletic shoes and the very first Asics running shoe. So, while the combination might seem unexpected, it's actually a nod to the brand's heritage.
For the official launch, Kostadinov collaborated with American artist Ryan Trecartin on a unique three-part campaign titled "Buckle Yup!" Each ad features Trecartin's original score, with lyrics and notation fed into machine learning software to create a chorus of artificial voices. The campaign will debut in Los Angeles, Tokyo, and London, with each act telling a narrative of delivery girls, romance, and, of course, shoes.
The Kiko Kostadinov x Asics Ilargi FF is available now in blue and black styles for $230 at Kostadinov's London store. A wider release is scheduled for February 23rd, so mark your calendars!
So, what do you think? Are you ready to embrace the split-toe trend, or is this collaboration a step too far? Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear your thoughts on this bold new design.
