Naruto has been crowned as one of the most popular Japanese manga and anime series since its creation in 1999 – and its legacy lives on despite closing the chapter on the original manga series in 2014. Fans can still see Naruto weaving in popular culture, making its way into collaborations with numerous apparel brands. Just two weeks into the new year, a new Naruto collaboration has emerged in the form of ASICS’ iconic GEL-NYC silhouette.
However, make no mistake because the Naruto x ASICS GEL-NYC isn’t the first time the two entities have teamed up. The last time fans copped a Naruto and ASICS partnership was when the ASICS Naruto Shippuden x Gel Lyte 3 OG “Kakashi dropped in 2022. Of course, the theme for this new collaboration is none other than Naruto Uzumaki himself – specifically, his Sage Mode.
The sneaker mostly appears in black but is highlighted with accents of orange – Naruto’s signature colour – and a deep fuschia to echo his Sage Mode appearance. Of course, you can’t forget the ASICS side logo in white to complete the exterior – and the insole does offer a unique design with the “Naruto Shippuden” series logo. Adding more Naruto theme to the shoes is the lace made to mimic Naruto’s scroll, a scratch nodding to Western imagery, a dubrae with the Leaf Village logo and the Naruto Uzumaki logo on the tongue.
The Naruto x ASICS GEL-NYC is set to debut globally on 11th January 2024 and will be available at select retailers in-store, online and on the ASICS official website. The sneakers come in a special edition box, promising a fully immersive experience for Naruto fans who want to sport this unique blend of anime culture and athletic fashion.
Visit the ASICS website for more.
