ASICS' Lace-Free Dad Shoe Is Young at Heart — And Sole

Despite what conviction might dictate, Velcro shoes are not just for kindergarteners. Unless we're talking about ridiculously dripped-out kindergarteners, of course. They kind of run that scene.

Dutch fashion designer Camiel Fortgens turned ASICS' Gel-Cumulus 16 into a Velcro stunner.

The techy allure of a classic ASICS dad shoe is still present by way of mesh uppers and leather overlays, all of which contribute to the sneaker's retro-futuristic vibe. Its old and young all at the same time, a lane ASICS does particularly well.

Three big Velcro straps take the place of your traditional lace system, giving the shoe a bit of structural distinction that serves it well in an ever-expanding sea of technical dad shoes.

These days, just about every brand has some sort of dad shoe iteration out, and ASICS has gotten quite creative in its efforts to stand out from the crowd.

This has manifested as ballet-core-approved Mary Janes, viral slip-on mules, and even some tabi-toed sneakers. Inside the box? ASICS doesn't even know what that is. It makes sense then that the brand has taken a muse in the undisputed kings of coloring outside the lines — kindergartners.

And well, if you do struggle with laces, then this is a pretty convenient drop for you, too. Serendipity.

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