ASICS Blends Music, Movement and Fashion With New Griff Collaboration

ASICS SportStyle is expanding its creative collaborations with the launch of the GEL-CUMULUS 16 by Griff, a new sneaker project that brings together the worlds of music, movement and personal expression.

The collaboration sees the performance heritage of ASICS combined with the creative perspective of British singer-songwriter Griff, creating a design that explores the emotional connection between movement, creativity and wellbeing.

At the centre of the project is ASICS’ founding philosophy, Anima Sana in Corpore Sano, which translates to “a sound mind in a sound body”. While traditionally associated with sport and physical activity, the collaboration explores the idea that movement can also influence creativity, confidence and emotional wellbeing.

Known for her emotionally driven music and distinctive visual identity, Griff brings a personal approach to the GEL-CUMULUS 16 silhouette, reimagining the sneaker through her own style and creative influences.

The result is a black colourway featuring a unique ribbon lacing system inspired by ballet aesthetics and the relationship between movement, strength and discipline.

“I wanted the shoe to feel like an extension of my everyday style,” says Griff. “I wanted to make it playful and elegant but also comfortable and something I can style from studio days to performing on stage to simply living my life.”

The design also draws inspiration from Griff’s own approach to fashion, including her habit of pairing socks with loafers. This influence is reflected in the layered styling of the sneaker, balancing softness with structure while maintaining its everyday versatility.

Built on the existing GEL-CUMULUS 16 platform, the collaboration retains ASICS’ focus on comfort and cushioning technology, combining lifestyle design with the performance features the silhouette is known for.

The project was developed over an 18-month period beginning in December 2024, with both ASICS and Griff contributing to the creative process.

Rather than being simply a footwear release, the collaboration represents a broader conversation around how movement exists beyond sport. For ASICS and Griff, creativity, music and everyday experiences all form part of the same connection between physical and mental wellbeing.

The ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 16 by Griff is now available in the Black/Black colourway exclusively at Shelflife for R2 999.90.