ASICS is known for two things in particular – popular runner silhouettes and killer collaborations – and its latest work with Reigning Champ brings just that, and more. The Vancouver based clothing brand teamed up with ASCICS for three colorways of the Gel-Lyte III and a collection of apparel.
The Reigning Champ x ASICS Gel-Lyte III come in black, grey, and navy colorways and all feature jersey material on the upper, which pair perfectly with the collection of sweats – what Reigning Champ is known for.
Cory Long, Lifesytle Senior Brand Manager, and Colin Brickley, Lifestyle Sales Marketing Manager, at ASICS spoke with us to explain how the collaboration came about and what to expect from the brand in the future.
How did Reigning Champ and ASICS get together?
Ultimately it came down to respect and an alignment we shared for footwear and apparel. When we decided to pursue the collaboration, we reached out to Doug from Reigning Champ on LinkedIn and in 48 hours we were having a meeting.
Did you ever want to do an-all jersey sneaker?
Creating an all-jersey shoe was never a priority. That being said, collaborating with Reigning Champ on this collection allowed us to incorporate their fabrics into the shoe.
Can we expect to see more clothing from ASICS?
Yes. Starting in Fall 2016 there will be a men's capsule collection for ASICS Tiger available in July 2016.
Why not release for the 25th anniversary of the Gel-Lyte III?
We had another project with the Gel-Lyte III that involved 12 of our long standing retailers across the globe. This collaboration with Reigning Champ is a separate partnership that we thought was valuable for us this year and would bring our footwear and apparel together on a premium level.
Is this a one-and-done collaboration with Reigning Champ or is there another collection coming?
This project has been a lot of fun on both sides and it's been great working together, so that door is always open.
The Regining Champ x ASICS Gel-Lyte III retails for $150 and is available at ASICS and other select retailers such as Ubiq and Extra Butter NY. Pairs are selling out, so act fast.
