New Kicks Alert Axel Arigato's Squish and Asics x Shushu Tong's Bow Detail Drop
The sneaker world is currently witnessing the debut of two distinct new silhouettes, each bringing unique elements that elevate them beyond typical footwear offerings. One comes from the avant-garde design house Axel Arigato, while the other is a collaborative effort between Asics SportStyle and designer brand Shushu/Tong, both presenting fresh perspectives on modern sneaker aesthetics.
Axel Arigato has unveiled the "Squish," a new unisex model that marks a significant departure from their previous design language. Moving away from the sharp, architectural lines synonymous with their past collections, the Squish embraces a softer, more fluid profile. Its design philosophy leans into playfulness over rigid precision, featuring rounded curves and proportions that almost evoke a caricatured, stylised drawing. This deliberate exaggeration transforms familiar sneaker codes into something refreshingly inviting and distinctive.
The Squish draws inspiration from diverse sources, including skate parks and modern sculpture, adopting a dynamic approach to form. Its sole is crafted with an intricate curvature in every direction – concave, convex, and notably never straight – incorporating deliberately offset lines that impart a sense of perpetual movement and irregularity. Proportions are intentionally amplified, with an oversized toe dramatically rising up the foot and an exaggerated woven label replacing the brand’s traditional leather tab, all contributing to the silhouette’s relaxed and unserious character. Creative director Jens Werner expressed his vision, stating he "wanted Squish to feel like a form in motion – inspired by the playfulness of literally squishing the upper into the sole, almost like a baking mould."
Crafted in Portugal, the Squish boasts premium materials, combining nubuck and suede for its uppers, paired with distinctive split-colour thermoplastic rubber (TPR) outsoles. Each pair is finished with wool laces, and the outsole is designed to appear "caught mid-pour," forming a shell that uniquely encases the upper. A unique toe design, inspired by mould-making and sculpture, adds another layer of artistic detail. The initial release offers five versatile colourways for both men and women: light beige, black, lilac, tan, and bright yellow. A subsequent men’s-only tonal pack will follow, featuring light taupe and black/off-black, with all styles available in stores from November 28.
Meanwhile, Asics SportStyle has teamed up with the acclaimed designer brand Shushu/Tong to reinterpret the existing Gel-Kinetic Fluent sneakers. This collaboration is deeply inspired by Shushu/Tong’s signature bow motif, seamlessly blending femininity with a distinct girlish flair. The design narrative mirrors the evolving style of the "Shushu/Tong girl," transitioning from a spirit of rebellion to one of elegance.
The collaboration’s defining feature is the dramatic enlargement of Shushu/Tong’s iconic bow into a multi-layered, three-dimensional structure. This impressive bow dominates the upper, becoming a compelling visual focal point while retaining its inherent romantic charm. It is cleverly integrated into the lacing system and further highlighted by a 3D-embossed Shushu/Tong logo prominently displayed on the tongue. The sneaker is available in two striking colourways: a red/black version that combines suede, leather, and mesh to create rich texture and tension against the Asics Stripes on the lateral sides, punctuated by a vibrant red accent on the heel. The second option features expansive metallic leather in a striking silver finish, offering a different yet equally impactful aesthetic.
