John Kim Updated August 5th, 2026: The EQL raffles for the VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS GEL-Kayano 12.1 are now LIVE. Enter below.
WHERE TO BUY
Mens VandyThePink x ASICS GEL-Kayano 12.1 "Vanilla"
US 08/14/2026 Friday
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| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS | Standard | Check Site |
| Sneaker Politics | Standard | Check Site |
| Extra Butter | Standard | Check Site |
WHERE TO BUY
Mens VandyThePink x ASICS GEL-Kayano 12.1 "Chocolate"
US 08/08/2026 Saturday
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| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| VandyThePink | EQL | EQL |
When VANDYTHEPINK and ASICS teamed up for the GEL-Nimbus 10.1 in 2025, the collaboration introduced an unmistakable ice cream sundae-inspired world that felt uniquely authentic to the creative’s visual identity. Rather than moving on to a completely new concept, the duo is returning to familiar territory with the GEL-Kayano 12.1, proving that some ideas are worth another scoop.
The sequel continues VANDYTHEPINK’s signature ice cream theme, a motif that has become synonymous with the brand itself. While ASICS’ recent affinity for metallic silver running shoes certainly plays into today’s footwear trends, VANDYTHEPINK found a more personal interpretation, using brushed silver overlays to resemble the familiar look of an ice cream scoop. It’s a thoughtful detail that bridges the designer’s commitment to true storytelling with one of ASICS’ most recognizable aesthetics.
That attention to detail continues throughout both colorways. The globally released “Vanilla” edition pairs a white waffle-textured mesh upper—meant to resemble a waffle cone—with colorful pink, yellow, and green accents inspired by rainbow sprinkles. Those same sprinkles carry over to the insoles, reinforcing the playful concept.
Meanwhile, the VANDYTHEPINK-exclusive “Chocolate” edition offers a more personal take while also hitting on a fan-favorite flavor. Long drawn to brown ASICS colorways, VANDY chose a rich chocolate mesh upper accented with subtle yellow streaks, while replacing the sprinkle graphics with a chocolate cone illustration on the footbed.
Both pairs include multiple lace options, custom VANDYTHEPINK branding throughout, and specially designed packaging featuring the label’s signature illustrations. The custom ice cream scoop is exclusive to those with Member Access to the drop. Finally, in what is a true rarity for the model, the streetwear brand’s name is featured on the tongue in Korean lettering.
The VANDYTHEPINK x ASICS GEL-Kayano 12.1 collection is scheduled to release on August 8th, with the “Vanilla” colorway launching globally and the “Chocolate” edition remaining exclusive to VANDYTHEPINK. Sneaker News will have an unboxing with VTP’s founder Junghoon Son soon.
