Following the success of the GEL-Nimbus 10.1 project last year, VANDYTHEPINK and ASICS are back for a second partnership. And like last time, the collaboration revolves around ice-cream-themed footwear, thereby solidifying the streetwear label’s ethos.
ASICS has been quite active in the market throughout 2026, and the announcement of its split with Onitsuka Tiger last month has not dented the production line. In fact, this team-up with VANDYTHEPINK is not ASICS’ first collab since the split — the Kiko Kostadinov x ASICS ILARGI FF II split-toe sneaker, which was released recently, is an example.
So, are you excited about the VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS Gel-Kayano 12.1 sneakers? If yes, scroll away to learn more about the drop.
VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS Gel-Kayano 12.1 sneakers serve two fresh ice-cream flavours
Colourways and design
The upcoming VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS Gel-Kayano 12.1 sneakers will be offered in two ice-cream-themed colourways: ‘Chocolate’ and ‘Vanilla’.
Chocolate
A brown open mesh forms the base of the top silhouette. Metallic silver overlays run around the entire upper surface, giving the sneaker a 2000s retro running-shoe look. Meanwhile, the yellow accents and the outsole add meaning to the footwear. A pair of eyelet tears, as well as the tongue branding, appear in pink.
Speaking of the tongue graphic, ASICS’ usual Japanese characters have been traded for VANDYTHEPINK’s name in Korean. In addition, the insoles sport personified ice-cream cone graphics, while the lateral heel tabs are adorned with floral hangtags.
Vanilla
In stark contrast to the ‘Chocolate’ colourway, the ‘Vanilla’ iteration features a predominant sail open mesh as its base. The silver overlays find a place here, too, while the accents are a combination of baby pink, light yellow, and mint green. Baby Pink appears as the primary hue on the outsole.
VANDYTHEPINK’s Korean branding is highlighted in mint green for the ‘Vanilla’ version. Similar to the ‘Chocolate’ variant, this edition, too, sports ice-cream cone graphics on the insoles, along with floral hangtags on the lateral heel as a nod to the streetwear brand’s logo.
Material
Fundamentally, the new VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS collaborative sneakers retain the construction of the Gel-Kayano 12.1 shoes — the top part features breathable, open-cell knit mesh. The tongue carries a waffle-weave texture resembling an ice-cream cone.
The midsole boasts a lightweight EVA foam that holds ASICS’ signature Gel cushioning inserts for comfort. Meanwhile, the outsole is constructed from durable, high-abrasion traction rubber that offers grip on most surfaces.
VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS Gel-Kayano 12.1 sneakers release date and price
The VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS Gel-Kayano 12.1 sneakers will hit shelves on 8 August 2026. Both variants carry a price tag of USD 195 (approximately RM797.84)
(Hero and Featured Images Credit: VANDY/Instagram)
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.