Asics’s Retro Lifestyle Sneaker Gets a Gorgeous Upgrade
The footwear brand collaborated with a Japanese menswear label on this premium version of the sneaker.
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The Adidas Samba may be the reigning king of slim, retro-inspired sneakers, but Asics has had a worthy alternative since the '90s.
Just like the Samba, the Skyhand sports a low-profile, court-inspired aesthetic. It was originally designed as an indoor handball sneaker but it wasn't long before it transcended into everyday wear. Then in 2024, Asics revived the silhouette as a lifestyle shoe.
Asics collaborates with Japanese fashion label Soshiotsuki on a refined version of the Skyhand OG. - Credit: Soshiotsuki
Originally a handball sneaker from the '90s, the Skyhand was revived in 2024 and is now one of the best Adidas Samba alternatives. - Credit: Soshiotsuki
The brand's recent collab with Japanese menswear label Soshiotsuki proves the Skyhand still has plenty of untapped potential. And it makes the strongest argument that this silhouette might just be the best Samba lookalike out there.
The most notable feature on this new collaboration is the oversized tongue, custom-made by artisans in Tokyo's Asakusa district using Horween Chromexcel leather. - Credit: Soshiotsuki
Leveling up
The new Soshiotsuki x Asics collab is perhaps the best-looking Skyhand OG we've seen. Unfortunately, with only 50 getting made, the chances of you nabbing one is slim to none.
The shoes also feature a small charm hanging off the side, designed by Kota Okuda. - Credit: Soshiotsuki
Instead of reworking the Skyhand OG entirely, the new sneaker focuses on materials and colors instead. - Credit: Soshiotsuki
Rather than radically reworking the Skyhand OG, the brands focus more on the materials used. Dressed in an Oatmeal/Black colorway, the sneaker pairs a cream suede upper with black Tiger Stripes and a gum rubber outsole.
It's dressed in cream-colored suede with black overlays. - Credit: Kith
Only 50 of these shoe are getting made in total. - Credit: Soshiotsuki
The real headliner, though, is its oversized tongue, custom-made by artisans in Tokyo's Asakusa district using Horween Chromexcel leather. Known for its rich oils and waxes, the material develops a distinctive patina over time, with creases and tonal shifts adding character as it wears. A Kota Okuda-designed logo charm attached to a lace eyelet adds an extra flourish.
Price and availability
First previewed during Soshiotsuki's Fall/Winter 2026 runway presentation at Pitti Uomo, the Soshiotsuki x Asics Skyhand OG is expected to land on Soshiotsuki's website on October 29 at 9 a.m. JST (that's October 28 at 7 p.m. ET).
It will be priced at ¥38,500 (~$240). By comparison, the standard Skyhand OG is only $105.
Asics x Soshiotsuki Skyhand OG
About the Author: Ethan Brehm is an associate editor at Gear Patrol writing about footwear, watches, spirits, EDC and more. When he's not shopping for his next G-Shock, he spends his time watching movies and planning a future road trip with his family. He firmly believes CDs sound better than vinyl.
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