Asics and Camiel Fortgens Released Gel-Cumulus Sneakers
The collaboration introduces two new sneaker models inspired by children's footwear and artisanal design techniques.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Running
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Asics SportStyle has teamed up with Camiel Fortgens to launch two distinct versions of the Gel-Cumulus 16 sneaker. The collection, which debuts this autumn, merges technical performance aesthetics with a mary jane-inspired design.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to blend classic technical sneaker silhouettes with the minimalist simplicity of children's shoes. A portion of the sales proceeds will directly benefit the FFort Foundation to support mental wellbeing programs for young adults.
The collection includes 2 sneaker models featuring irregular stitching and hand-cut overlays. These designs utilize the signature Asics stripes integrated with modified structural silhouettes.
The players
Asics SportStyle
This is a division of the Japanese multinational athletic equipment company Asics that focuses on lifestyle footwear and fashion-forward collaborations.
Camiel Fortgens
This is an Amsterdam-based fashion label recognized for its experimental approach to classic garments and unconventional design details.
FFort Foundation
This organization is the recipient of the collaboration proceeds and works to promote and support mental wellbeing initiatives for young adults.
The details
The collaboration is part of the Asics Crafts for Mind initiative and features unique aesthetics including hand-cut overlays and irregular stitching. Marketing materials for the launch include a film focused on subconscious foot gestures and photography capturing daily movements.
Timeline
The green sneaker models launch on September 25, 2026, at Tillatec in Amsterdam.
The brown sneaker models are scheduled to launch in October 2026.
Season Trajectory
This launch follows the established philanthropic mission of the Asics Crafts for Mind initiative. The partnership marks a continued trend of high-fashion labels integrating traditional athletic silhouettes into limited-edition collaborative collections.
The green colorway will be available for purchase at Tillatec starting September 25. Consumers looking for the brown version can find them in October at Dover Street Market London and the Camiel Fortgens flagship store.
The takeaway
This collection represents a stylistic shift by blending athletic performance history with boutique design sensibilities. Collectors should note the staggered release dates for the green and brown colorways to ensure availability.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in the industry on the Running section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WWD.
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