ASICS may very well be the undisputed champion of retro runners. The Gel Lytes III and V, as well as the Gel Saga and GT-II have made their ways around the world, stunning audiences and inspiring love for years. But ASICS’ long and storied history means that their archive is as deep as it gets, and they can continue to dig deeper and find gems even that most learned sneakerhead never knew existed.
ASICS’ Gel-Respector is poised to make a return this year and afew has already gotten their hands on this 90’s era runner. In many ways, the Gel-Respector has inherited a lot of design elements from the Gel Lyte V, including a wave form through the midsole, and curving panels behind the heel tab. A combination lacing system includes eyelets built directly into the shoe’s upper, along with sewn in plastic portions for a tighter fit. A toe wrap that is much shorter than most sneakers, offers a unique element that could offer some awesome options in the future.
The photos we have now are of the “Aster Purple” colorway – and havemostly sold out at afew – but look forward to many more versions of this shoe in the future. The possibilities are downright exciting.
The Fat Cat Collective 