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ASICS & Distance: Kenya's Running Heartbeat in New Collection
9 Oct
Summary
- New ASICS x Distance collection inspired by Kenya's running town, Iten.
- Collection features 16 apparel pieces and a new Novablast 6 shoe.
- Launches globally on October 10, 2026, with unique earth and sky colors.
ASICS and French running retailer Distance have unveiled a collaborative capsule collection, drawing inspiration from Iten, Kenya, a town celebrated for its vibrant running community. This marks the first partnership between the two entities, with the collection set to launch worldwide on October 10, 2026.
The extensive capsule features 16 distinct apparel items for both men and women. This range spans from high-performance running gear, many based on ASICS' premium Metarun line, to casual lifestyle tops and hoodies. A key element of the collection is the new Novablast 6 running shoe, which prominently displays the collaboration's distinctive color palette, extending it from apparel to footwear.
The design aesthetic is deeply rooted in the visuals of Iten, incorporating the hues of its red earth and expansive sky, as well as the textures and painted facades of local homes, including the Distance store. This vibrant coordination and bold color use aim to mirror the distinctive ways runners in Iten personalize their training attire. The pieces are designed for versatile wear, suitable for intense training sessions or relaxed pre- and post-run moments.
Alistair Keys, head of design at ASICS, emphasized the profound connection between running in Iten and its unique environment, from the soil to the sunshine and shared rituals. He noted that the collection aligns with ASICS' mission to promote the positive effects of movement on mental well-being for all levels of runners.
Guillaume Pontier, co-founder of Distance, shared a personal motivation for the project, stemming from his family's long-standing involvement in athletics and Kenya. His father, a coach to elite French runners, introduced him to Iten, fostering relationships that led Distance to establish a store there in 2022. This store aims to improve access to quality running gear for local athletes and has become a community hub.
Pontier described Iten as more than an inspiration; it's a place defined by relationships, generosity, and a daily dedication to running. He views the collection as a tribute to the cherished details of Iten, from its sunrises and red earth to its home colors and community warmth, dedicating it to their friends in Iten.
