When was the last time you went for a walk without checking the time, tracking your steps or having somewhere you needed to be?
For their latest collaboration, Story mfg. and ASICS are encouraging people to do exactly that.
The husband and wife duo behind Story mfg., known for their approach to clothing and slower methods of production, have reunited with the Japanese footwear brand to introduce the GEL-TRANSCEND FJ.
At the centre of the collaboration is the idea of rambling. Not the kind where someone talks your ear off, but the simple act of wandering, exploring and seeing where the day takes you.
It’s a fitting idea for two brands with an appreciation for the outdoors.
The GEL-TRANSCEND FJ draws inspiration from ASICS’ hiking and walking footwear of the 1990s, bringing elements of those earlier designs into a contemporary silhouette.
The upper combines breathable mesh with synthetic leather overlays, while the rugged, jagged outsole takes its inspiration from the GEL-FujiTrabuco 7, a trail-running shoe built with uneven terrain in mind.
Story mfg. has added its own personality through plaid overlays inspired by vintage travellers’ blankets.
The collaboration arrives in two colourways, Black/Grey and Rich Brown, with subtle co-branding throughout. Story mfg.‘s logo appears on the left tongue, right lateral heel and right insole, while ASICS’ lowercase ‘a’ is perforated into the toe box.
Those familiar with the brands’ previous work might recognise the patterned approach from their GEL-VENTURE 6 collaboration, which featured gingham detailing.
Rather than simply releasing the shoes and calling it a day, Story mfg. and ASICS have created an experience around the idea behind them.
The RAMBLING CLUB will take place at Story mfg.’s London studio on November 7 and 8, before heading to New York for a pop-up on November 10.
There’s a particularly interesting detail in the application process.
Anyone hoping to join the club must submit a hand drawn self-portrait.
Successful applicants will receive early access to the collaboration, making the experience feel more like joining a small creative community than attending a conventional sneaker launch.
The Story mfg. x ASICS GEL-TRANSCEND FJ releases November 11 through Story mfg.’s website, followed by a global release through ASICS and select retailers on November 20.
Images: Story mfg. / ASICS
