Fidan Novruzova Reimagines the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 16 in Premium Leather

ASICS has linked up with Moldovan designer Fidan Novruzova for the brand's "Crafts for Mind" series, a project inviting a cohort of designers to create new versions of its extensive sneaker collection. Tapping one of the coolest emerging designers for a hand-crafted reinterpretation of the GEL-CUMULUS 16 sneaker, ASICS has gone full haute couture with this high-end drop.

Novruzova's sculptural footwear designs and beautifully-crafted leather accessories are on display throughout her rendition of an ASICS footwear staple. Taking the classic GEL-CUMULUS 16 shell and making it her own, the sneaker arrives in two monochrome colorways: "Black" and "Cherry Red."

Projecting her own design codes onto the standard ASICS silhouette, Novruzova's creation features an oversized, square tongue with a tassel detail that almost entirely covers the laces. Made from the same leather she uses for her namesake label's footwear, the unique detail is a nod to traditional shoemaking, with loafers and brogues the inspiration behind this particular look.

The sneakers were first revealed during Novruzova's Spring/Summer 2026 runway show at Paris Fashion Week, paired with structured jackets and tailored pants. As part of ASICS' ongoing "Crafts for Mind" series, a portion of the proceeds will go towards endometriosis research at the Fondation Pour la Recherche sur L'Endométriose.

The ASICS x Fidan Novruzova collaboration is now available to purchase exclusively on the designer's website.

For more footwear collabs, Daniëlle Cathari and New Balance have another green tea-inspired drop on the way.

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