The new ASICS X SOLANA UI Collection features custom-made GT-2000 11 physical running shoes inspired by user interfaces (UI) on computer and smartphone screens. Sneakers are available in two custom designs — “light mode” and “dark mode” — that were meant to symbolize a healthy balance between physical activity and screen time.
According to ASICS, all customers will receive an ASICS Badge NFT upon purchase. The digital collectible grants access to future loyalty bonuses and unique brand experiences. Additionally, GT-2000 11 running shoes will also give owners a chance to win an airdrop of a limited number of ASICS x STEPN GT-2000 NFTs, which will have undisclosed utility in the move-to-earn game.
Although the main target audience for the NFT-paired sneakers is the Web3 community, specifically STEPN players, the manufacturer believes that the product will suit everyone who aims to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The collection has been designed for all types of everyday activities.
The GT-2000 11 sneakers are available for pre-order for a limited five-day period from November 4 to 8. The shoes can be bought exclusively with USDC via Solana Pay at ui.asics.com.
"The launch of the ASICS x Solana UI Collection is a major step forward for ASICS Web3 commerce. We're proud to leverage Solana Pay and partner with STEPN to help us scale our mission to inspire the global Web3 community to create healthy habits with our products. Building on learnings and successes from our Sunrise Red and Genesis STEPN collections, we're excited to continue delivering world-class Web3 experiences," Joe Pace, Director of Web3 and Digital Goods at ASICS, said in an announcement.
Founded in 1949, ASICS — Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, meaning "A Sound Mind in a Sound Body" in Latin — is a Japanese sportswear brand that began its Web3 journey in July 2021 with the launch of the ASICS SUNRISE RED NFT collection. In April 2022, it joined forces with a move-to-earn game STEPN to mint a limited-edition ASICS X STEPN sneaker mystery box collection.
“With the release of the ASICS x Solana UI collection including genesis ASICS Badge NFTs on the Solana blockchain, ASICS is establishing technology to deliver world-class Web3 experiences that inspire physical activity in the Web3 community to promote physical and mental wellbeing,” the company announced in its press release.
STEPN is a web3 move-to-earn game that rewards users with its native token for moving, whether walking, jogging, or running outside. To start earning with STEPN, users should first buy NFT sneakers that come in different tiers, shapes, and rarity, which also determine how much a user can earn from the exercise.
"As a first mover in this space, ASICS is leading the industry by showing how customers and brands can come together around tokengated experiences that provide ongoing e-benefits to both sides," said Josh Fried, Head of Payments Business Development at Solana Labs. "Furthermore, by using USDC payments on Solana Pay, ASICS is breaking down geographic barriers to facilitate transactions around the world and showing just how much more can be done with Web3 commerce."
