Asics, the Japanese sports gear brand, has unveiled the Gel-Lyte III CM 1.95 sneaker which it says emits just 1.95 kg CO2e during its life cycle, and marks a significant step in its commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
The brand says the Gel-Lyte emits 30 per cent less CO2e than the most eco-friendly running shoes previously released, which emit 2.9 kg CO2e.
Partnering with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2010, Asics started a 10-year research and development program to develop the Gel-Lyte III CM 1.95. The company claims the shoe achieves its new level of sustainability without compromising on quality.
Innovative highlights of the sneaker include new carbon-negative foam and the use of recycled and solution-dyed polyester.
The shoe includes a new structure using tape that consumes less material and 100 per cent renewable energy used throughout the manufacturing process.
Minako Yoshikawa, senior GM of Asics’ sustainability division, said the Gel-Lyte III CM 1.95 is only the beginning of Asics’ sustainability journey.
“At Asics, we have long been committed to exploring and testing more sustainable methods through our value chain to reduce our impact on the planet,” added Minako.
“Our ambition is to continue applying the learnings and build on the blueprint of this shoe in a way that can be rolled out on an even bigger scale in the future.”
Yasuhito Hirota, CEO at Asics, hopes the shoe can inspire real positive change in the sports industry on the way to achieving net-zero emissions.
Customers can buy the Gel-Lyte III CM 1.95 sneaker in-store and online as part of the autumn/winter range.
- Recommended reading: Allbirds creates its first plant-based sneaker.
