Asics Explore the Ancient Japanese Art of 'Hon Aizome' on the Gel-Lyte 3

Each panel hand-dyed with care and precision by Japanese leather artisans, Asics unveils this premium interpretation of its iconic Gel-Lyte III silhouette.

Embodying the very essence of contemporary sneaker luxury, the 'Made in Japan' Gel-Lyte III combines superior design with skilled craftsmanship to produce a finely-tuned and subtly nuanced sneaker pack that reflects Japan's status as a purveyor of the finest leather goods.

Resolute in an ambition to preserve traditional techniques, Asics enlisted the help of authentic Hon Aizome artisans to individually dye each panel of leather required in the construction of a Gel-Lyte III. With records dating the development of this sacred process as far back as the 7th century, Aizome dyeing is a technique woven into the very fabric of Japanese culture.

Completely organic and in symphonic harmony with nature, the process uses just indigo leaves, natural alcohol, and fresh water to produce a gamut of strikingly vibrant blue tones. The process was developed on the banks of Japan's idyllic freshwater rivers in the pre-industrial era, and to this day remains completely at the mercy of the land; an enduring testimony to the potential for collaboration between man and land.

In a post-industrial market which favours speed over quality, Aizome-dyeing artisans face the threat of obsolescence as the corporatisation of global supply chains pushes a chemical-heavy dyeing agenda. Although chemical dyes are quicker, easier to control, and possible to produce at enormous scale, this convenience comes at the expense of our natural environment and the legacy of techniques passed down from parent to child for nearly 15 centuries.

The Asics 'Made in Japan' Gel-Lyte III pack will launch at UrlfreezeShops on December 9th.