The Only 5 ASICS Sneakers That Matter This Season — And Where to Get Them
Once known mainly for performance running shoes, ASICS has officially entered the style chat — and they’re not leaving any time soon. Thanks to a sharp blend of retro aesthetics, modern comfort, and streetwear credibility, ASICS sneakers are now fashion staples for men who know what they’re doing with their fits.
If you’re ready to upgrade your sneaker game, we’ve rounded up five of the trendiest ASICS kicks currently available in South Africa, along with exactly where you can cop them. From nostalgic silhouettes to chunky-cool runners, these pairs belong in every modern man’s wardrobe.
1. GEL-LYTE III OG – R2,600
Available at: ASICS website and ASICS stores
With its iconic split tongue and retro running design, the GEL-LYTE III OG is a sneakerhead essential. This silhouette defined 90s sneaker culture — and it still holds its own today. It’s lightweight, easy to style, and comes in a range of colourways that move from subtle to standout.
Style tip: Rock it with joggers or cropped trousers to show off the tongue detail.
2. GEL-KAYANO 14 – From R3,000 to R3,300
Available at: ASICS website, Shelflife, Office London, Superbalist, Sportscene, Bash
This Y2K revival is the sneaker of the moment. Chunky, shiny, and seriously comfortable, the GEL-KAYANO 14 has been co-signed by the fashion elite and dressed down by everyday street stylers. Whether you go with the OG silver or a cleaner monochrome drop, the Kayano 14 hits hard.
Style tip: Pair with wide-leg pants or layered streetwear looks for that “just stepped off the runway” vibe.
3. GEL-NIMBUS 9 – R3,000
Available at: ASICS website, Shelflife
This one’s for the bold. Originally built for performance, the GEL-NIMBUS 9 now rules the streetwear scene thanks to its aggressive lines and tech-runner appeal. Think of it as the older, cooler cousin of your gym shoes — but made for the streets, not the treadmill.
Style tip: Match with minimalist fits to let the sneakers do the talking.
4. EX89 – R2,400
Available at: ASICS website, Superbalist
The EX89 is where basketball court nostalgia meets modern cool. Clean lines, 80s design language, and a timeless high-top silhouette make it an easy pick for guys who like vintage flair with modern comfort. It’s less about hype, more about everyday style confidence.
Style tip: Pair with socks that pop and denim or chinos for a laid-back classic look.
5. GEL-1130 – From R1,700 to R2,200
Available at: ASICS website, Superbalist, Sportscene
The most budget-friendly of the bunch — but don’t let the price fool you. The GEL-1130 serves early-2000s dad-shoe energy in all the right ways. It’s sleek, understated, and extremely wearable. Whether you’re on a casual errand run or styling a normcore fit, this one fits right in.
Style tip: This pair is made for clean, everyday basics — white tee, tan trousers, repeat.
In an era where sneaker trends move fast and everyone’s chasing the next drop, ASICS offers something more sustainable — a mix of authentic heritage, comfort-first engineering, and low-key streetwear clout. These five silhouettes are not just trendy — they’re timeless, too.
So go ahead. Pick your pair. Or two. Your closet (and your feet) will thank you.
