ASICS Sportstyle introduces the GEL-CUMULUS 16 by Griff, a new sneaker created with singer-songwriter Griff and set to launch on June 12, 2026. The collaboration connects ASICS’ movement-led philosophy with Griff’s creative language, placing the shoe between performance history, personal style, and emotional expression. The project draws from ASICS’ founding idea, Anima Sana in Corpore Sano, meaning a sound mind in a sound body, and considers movement as something that reaches beyond sport into creativity, routine, and wellbeing.
SNEAKERS
Griff brings a personal point of view to the GEL-CUMULUS 16 silhouette. The sneaker arrives in black and features a ribbon lacing system inspired by ballet and the physical language of movement. That detail gives the shoe its most recognizable design element, connecting the discipline and grace of performance with the rhythm of everyday dressing. ASICS and Griff use the silhouette to explore the relationship between music and sport, where repetition, control, and physical presence shape both practices.
The design also reflects Griff’s own styling habits. Her reference to pairing socks with loafers appears through the shoe’s layered construction, giving the sneaker a styled quality while keeping it grounded in daily wear. The black colorway keeps the focus on the ribbon lacing and layered details, while the silhouette retains the comfort and structure associated with GEL-CUMULUS 16.
“I wanted the shoe to feel like an extension of my everyday style,” says Griff. “I wanted to make it playful and elegant but also comfortable and something I can style from studio days to performing on stage to simply living my life.”
The sneaker keeps the GEL-CUMULUS 16 foundation, including ASICS cushioning technology and comfort features designed for all-day wear. While the collaboration brings a distinct visual identity to the model, ASICS keeps the shoe rooted in performance function. The project developed across 18 months, beginning in December 2024. During that period, ASICS and Griff shaped the sneaker through an exchange between technical knowledge and artistic direction. The collaboration places emphasis on emotion, feminine energy, community, and the connections that form through movement in the city.
To mark the launch, ASICS will open a dedicated pop-up experience at 1-3 Yorkton Street in Hackney, London, from June 12 to June 14, 2026. Designed by architect and creative Kat Milne, the space will give visitors a closer look at the story behind the collaboration and the opportunity to purchase the GEL-CUMULUS 16 by Griff. The sneaker will also launch on June 12, 2026, through select retailers and ASICS channels.
