ASICS GEL-NYC UTILITY

GEL-NYC UTILITY

In 2023, ASICS celebrated its heritage running shoes with a brand new silhouette inspired by various archival models. Known as the Gel-NYC, it brought together elements from Y2K-era designs like the Gel-Nimbus 3 and the Gel-MC Plus V, combining them with the sole unit of 2014’s Gel-Cumulus 16. After a successful first year, ASICS created a rugged variant called the Gel-NYC Utility.

The ASICS Gel-NYC Utility shares many aspects with the core model. Its midsole is made from the same blend of soft, supportive foam, though this has been bulked up in certain areas, with visible Gel cushioning in the heel and forefoot for maximum comfort. It also has a sturdy midfoot shank and a Guidance Line, which together serve to reduce stress on the legs, enhance stability and improve comfort. Meanwhile, the split rubber outsole retains its durability, flexibility and grip, supporting off-road use.

The biggest updates to the Gel-NYC Utility occur on its powerful upper. The mesh underlayer has been replaced with a tough nylon ripstop material to keep the elements out, with just a little mesh remaining on the tongue for a touch of breathability. Durable leather overlays form familiar shapes across the outer, but the sidewall logos are much bolder as the two vertical bands have been layered over the top of the horizontal ones, adding complexity and depth to the design. They also extend to the eyestay, where they offer a strong pair of eyelets as part of a reimagined lacing system. Thick textile loops secure the top length of the laces, while the middle is reinforced by the ASICS logos and the bottom firmly held in place by a loop connected to a branded panel at the forefoot.

Other practical details include a pull tab on the heel, which makes it easier to get the Gel-NYC Utility on and off, and fewer embroidered effects. In fact, all of the woven branding accents from the original model, including the Gel text on the heel and the tongue logo, have been replaced with printed elements. This reduces the risk of loose threads catching and tearing parts of the shoe, making it far more effective for exploring the wilderness.

Released in 2024, the ASICS Gel-NYC Utility is an outdoor-ready version of 2023’s NYC silhouette. Bolstered with solid reinforcements and practical features, it has been built to withstand challenging conditions while still retaining the compelling heritage style that made the original so popular, thus empowering the wearer to look great no matter where their adventures take them.