ASICS
The ASICS Story
ASICS was founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka in Kobe, Japan. The name stands for "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano" - a sound mind in a sound body. Over more than 75 years, ASICS has developed some of the most important running shoe technologies in the industry, including GEL cushioning, the TRUSSTIC support system, and FF Blast foam. In recent years, ASICS' archive silhouettes have been revived as lifestyle sneakers, with models like the Gel-Kayano 14, Gel-NYC, and Gel-1130 becoming cornerstones of the retro running revival that has dominated streetwear since the early 2020s. At HOODLUMS UK, we stock a curated selection of ASICS' most sought-after lifestyle and retro running silhouettes across multiple models and colourways, all sourced from authorised retailers and 100% authenticated before dispatch.
The Gel-Kayano 14 is the flagship model in ASICS' retro revival, originally designed by Toshikazu Kayano as a premium stability runner. Its iconic layered construction and GEL cushioning have made it the most sought-after ASICS lifestyle shoe. We stock it in colourways including Dolphin Grey Pure Silver, White Graphite Grey, White Fjord Grey, Cream Sweet Pink, Silver Sage Green, Metropolis Jasper Green, Arctic Sky Pure Silver, Metallic Cream Plum, Urban Research Pure Silver Black, and White Midnight. The Gel-NYC is a hybrid silhouette fusing the Gel-Nimbus 3 and MC-Plus V, available in Oatmeal Obsidian Grey, Graphite Grey Black, Ironclad Black RGD, White Smoke Grey, Cream Oyster Grey, Cream Sweet Pink, Cream Arctic Sky, and Cream Mineral Beige Pink. The Gel-1130 offers a sleeker, lower-profile alternative available in White Shark Skin, White Pure Silver, Black Pure Silver, Steel Grey Black, Graphite Grey Gravel, Gravel Pure Silver, Irvine Black, Wild Dove, Larimar Blue Silver, Cream Blueberry, Restful Teal White, and Swamp Green Silver. The Gel-Venture 6 brings genuine trail running performance in the Grey Black colourway.
Every ASICS sneaker at HOODLUMS is sourced from authorised retailers and verified channels. Each pair goes through our multi-point authentication process before dispatch, so you can buy with confidence. We offer free standard UK delivery on orders over £100, express 1-2 day delivery for £5.99, and Klarna pay-in-3 on every order. Changed your mind? Our 14-day returns policy means you can shop risk-free.
ASICS sneakers generally run true to size across all models. We recommend ordering your usual UK size. The Gel-Kayano 14 and Gel-NYC have slightly wider fits compared to the slimmer Gel-1130. The Gel-Venture 6 fits true to size with a supportive, trail-ready construction. If you're between sizes, stick with your standard size for the best fit. Check the size guide on each product page for model-specific advice.
ASICS sits in the same retro running space as Saucony, Nike, and New Balance. Compared to the Saucony ProGrid Omni 9, ASICS models offer more visible cushioning technology and a wider range of silhouettes from sleek (Gel-1130) to chunky (Gel-NYC). Against the Nike P-6000, ASICS delivers more technically advanced cushioning with GEL inserts and TRUSSTIC support systems. Compared to New Balance's 990 and 1906R series, ASICS leans more into metallic, silver, and technical aesthetics rather than earth tones and suede. For customers choosing between brands, ASICS offers the most diverse range of retro running silhouettes at HOODLUMS, from the iconic Kayano 14 to the trail-ready Gel-Venture 6.
ASICS is worth buying because the brand has over 75 years of genuine running shoe engineering behind every silhouette. GEL cushioning, TRUSSTIC stability systems, and FF Blast foam are real performance technologies that deliver tangible comfort, not borrowed aesthetics. The retro models being revived today were originally built for serious runners, which means comfort and durability are built in. ASICS' Japanese heritage brings a meticulous attention to detail and material quality that's evident in every pair. The range of models available, from the iconic Gel-Kayano 14 to the sleek Gel-1130 and the chunky Gel-NYC, means there's an ASICS for every style preference and outfit.
ASICS sneakers should be spot cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. For suede panels (common on Gel-NYC models), use a suede brush and protector spray before first wear. For metallic silver overlays and tiger stripes, use a soft cloth to buff out marks. For white colourways, use a soft brush with sneaker cleaning solution and avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent yellowing. Avoid machine washing as this can damage overlays, GEL inserts, and midsole construction. Allow shoes to air dry naturally away from direct heat or direct sunlight. Store in a cool, dry place and use shoe trees or stuffing to maintain shape. For the Gel-Venture 6, allow mud to dry first before brushing off and wiping down.
Yes, every ASICS sneaker we sell is 100% authentic. We source exclusively from authorised ASICS retailers and trusted suppliers, and every pair goes through our multi-point authentication process before dispatch. Your purchase is backed by our full money-back authenticity guarantee.
Yes, ASICS sneakers generally run true to size across all models. We recommend ordering your usual UK size. The Gel-Kayano 14 and Gel-NYC have slightly wider fits, while the Gel-1130 is slimmer. Check the fit guide on each product page for model-specific advice.
We stock a curated selection of ASICS' most popular retro and lifestyle silhouettes including the Gel-Kayano 14, Gel-NYC, Gel-NYC RGD, Gel-1130, and Gel-Venture 6, all in multiple colourways. Our range changes regularly as new releases and restocks land, so check back often or follow us on Instagram for the latest drops.
Yes, we offer free standard UK delivery on all orders over £100. Express delivery is available for £5.99 with 1-2 working day dispatch. All orders are fully tracked from dispatch to delivery.