Photographer Robbie Lawrence created a portfolio of images to mark the Thom Browne x ASICS collaboration, capturing bodies in motion across Tokyo’s streets, cafés, train cars, and public spaces. The series reflects Lawrence and Browne’s shared interest in the body as form, expressed through movement, performance, and interpersonal connection. Within this visual narrative, Thom Browne and ASICS introduce a new interpretation of the GEL-KAYANO 14, bringing the designer’s visual language into the ASICS Sportstyle line.
SNEAKERS
Lawrence’s photography frames the project through scenes of daily life in Tokyo. The images follow individuals moving through streets, sitting in cafés, and traveling on trains. Movement remains central throughout the series, with bodies captured in gestures that suggest activity and interaction. The photographs also reference youth punk culture alongside elements drawn from Japanese history and cultural tradition.
The collaboration revisits the GEL-KAYANO 14, a silhouette that holds an important position within the ASICS archive. Thom Browne approaches the sneaker through material refinement and precise detailing. Real suede appears on the grey and black versions, while the white edition uses smooth leather across the upper.
Several elements draw directly from Thom Browne’s design vocabulary. A lace catcher carries the brand’s signature grosgrain ribbon. Red, white, and blue appear on the white and black editions, while the grey version uses tonal grosgrain. The ribbon references medals from Browne’s years as a varsity swimmer and long-distance runner. Each pair arrives with two sets of laces. One set features metal tips finished with red, white, and blue accents. The second pair uses a two-tone construction that references the athletic background of the model.
The upper structure maintains the recognizable layout of the GEL-KAYANO 14. ASICS stripes remain central to the design. Cross-stitch finishing appears across these stripes and introduces a visual reference to construction techniques used in clothing. Piping details run along the upper and echo the precise tipping often seen in Thom Browne tailoring.
Inside the shoe, the updated insole carries both Thom Browne and ASICS branding. The insole also features the Thom Browne university stripe. Red, white, and blue striping appears on the white and black versions, while the grey edition uses a grey and white arrangement. These details introduce additional references to the collaboration while maintaining the original structure of the sneaker.
The Thom Browne x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14 grey and black editions are available through Thom Browne retail locations, website, and select retailers worldwide. The white edition will release on March 23.
Discover Robbie Lawrence’s Tokyo photo series in our gallery below.
