Karimoku New Standard and ASICS Launch Furniture Cushioned with Crushed Trainer Foam

Karimoku New Standard has introduced its KNS x ASICS Collaboration globally, incorporating foam salvaged from discarded ASICS footwear for cushioning in two seating designs. Trainers that were unsold or samples set for disposal are taken apart, sorted, and crushed to retrieve Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam, a lightweight material commonly used in midsoles, outsoles, and footbeds. This reclaimed foam is mixed with cotton and adhered to a three-millimetre condensed foam sheet, creating a hybrid structure that Karimoku New Standard views as an enhancement rather than mere material recycling. The foam is featured in the Castor Lobby Sofa and Polar Lounge Chair, both adorned with an embroidered tag highlighting the collaboration. This project evolved from Karimoku New Standard's efforts in designing seating for ASICS' Tokyo office, with iterative prototyping and collaboration with ASICS' sports science team transforming shoe waste into comfortable furniture. The collaboration first launched in Japan earlier this year before its international release. Karimoku has collaborated with Zaha Hadid Design, while ASICS has recently teamed up with Issey Miyake for Hyper Taping trainers and Danish brand Hay for pastel Skyhand OG trainers.