ASICS GT-2160

GT-2160

ASICS launched its GT-2000 series of stability running shoes back in the 1990s as an alternative to the premium Gel-Kayano. By the 2010s, it extended to dozens of high-quality models, and in 2011, the GT-2160 was released. 

A well-crafted running shoe the ASICS GT-2160 had a series of stabilizing features, including a DuoMax sole incorporating both soft and firm EVA foams for all-round support, plush Gel cushioning in the toe and heel, and a sturdy TPU shank through the midfoot. Its key innovation was the so-called Guidance Line – a deep groove passing vertically through the sole that encouraged correct movement, improving comfort and fit while also reducing stress on the joints.

The outer of the GT-2160 was made from breathable mesh, ensuring lightweight comfort and breathability, with synthetic paneling for durability. At the time, it was the lightest shoe in the series, even weighing less than its Gel-Kayano counterpart. Esthetically, it had the classic mesh-runner look, with dynamic overlays sweeping across its outer and sleek ASICS logos on its flanks.

While the ASICS GT-2160 was well-received on its original release in 2011, its successor came out just a few months later, and its fans moved on. Around a decade later, a new trend emerged for retro running shoes, and in 2023, following the successful return of many Gel-Kayano models, ASICS decided to revive a shoe from its GT-2000 collection. That shoe was the little-known GT-2160.

To announce its comeback, ASICS Sportstyle held a pop-up event at Paris Fashion Week. Alongside general releases inspired by colorways from 2011, the brand showcased three compelling collaborations: Danish fashion designer Cecilie Bahnsen brought a feminine touch to the silhouette, Montreal skate shop Dime honored its retro roots and Los Angeles brand AIREI handcrafted a version with a distinctive plaster coating.

The event was a huge success, and ASICS sought out new creative partners to work on the GT-2160, amassing an international group of collaborators including brands from Japan, China, Australia, the United States and Europe. This list grew ever longer throughout 2023 and 2024, with notable colorways from American streetwear label Kith, Australian clothing boutiques Above The Clouds and Earls Collection, Danish lifestyle brand Wood Wood, Canadian design studio JJJJound and inventive brand partner Kiko Kostadinov.

By 2025, the GT-2160 was one of the most sought-after retro running shoes around. Fashion magazines praised its stylish look and everyday comfort, suggesting that it would be the ideal casual sneaker for the upcoming year. Meanwhile, ASICS continued to release new colorways and collaborations, pairing with Japanese brands atmos and Grip Swany on a rugged, outdoor-ready version.

Although its original release was short-lived, the ASICS GT-2160 clearly made an impression, and over a decade later, it achieved a powerful comeback. Its heritage style and functional features earned the memorable lifestyle silhouette many fans, while its globally inspired collaborative designs captivated sneaker enthusiasts around the world, making it a great modern-day success story.