A new attempt by ASICS and Karimoku New Standard. Instead of being discarded, they will be reborn as new products.

Collaborations between brands and companies are common, but when they involve two brands from Japan, I can’t help but want to root for them.

When 〈ASICS〉 and 〈Karimoku New Standard〉 teamed up, this is the item they created.

Castor Lobby Sofa 1-Seater ¥246,400–¥306,900, 2-Seater: ¥394,900–¥497,200, 3-Seater: ¥539,000–¥694,100

Polar Lounge Chair L ¥206,800–¥302,500; L with Side Table (L/R) ¥221,100–¥316,800

Polar Lounge Chair S ¥143,000–¥216,700; S with Side Table (L/R) ¥172,000–¥246,400

This sofa was created in pursuit of the “ideal seating comfort” for the meeting space at the ASICS Tokyo office and was designed with actual use in mind.

Applying the technology developed for its “NEOCURVE” line, ASICS disassembled and shredded unused ASICS shoes—including deadstock and samples—that were scheduled for disposal. The shoe features a two-layer structure consisting of cotton blended with chips of sorted EVA foam and a 3mm-thick sheet of compressed foam, delivering just the right balance of softness, responsiveness, and excellent durability. Designed to accommodate computer work, it features a milder sink-in feel compared to standard models and is characterized by a stable, supportive fit.

It also features a special tag embroidered with the logos of both brands.

Sales will begin on Saturday, January 17, at 1:00 PM to 1:13 PM on the “Karimoku Furniture” online store, and the product will reportedly become available for purchase in stages at retailers nationwide.

Incidentally, to commemorate the release of this collaboration model, a special model upholstered with fabric from the Danish textile manufacturer Kvadrat will be on display on the second floor of the “KARIMOKU RESEARCH CENTER.” The upholstery is said to be inspired by three sports settings—trails, streets, and tennis courts—so this looks like it will be interesting as well.