ASICS Taps STEPN to Launch Running Shoe, Solana NFT Collections

NFT

Japanese sportswear producer ASICS introduced right now the launch of the ASICS X SOLANA UI Assortment. The brand new line of kicks options custom-made, limited-run GT-2000 11 trainers that additionally give homeowners an opportunity to win a restricted version ASICS x STEPN GT-2000 NFT.

“We see a spot for us to assist in Web3 and convey merchandise that encourage folks to be bodily energetic,” ASICS Director of Web3 & Digital Items Joe Tempo informed Decrypt in an interview. “For us, it is only a completely different manner of telling tales about our merchandise and getting particular communities enthusiastic about them.”

Tempo says ASICS designed the GT-2000 trainers for the Web3 group however that it’s also one thing anybody on this planet might use “in steadiness with bodily exercise.”

Based on ASICS, The GT-2000 11 footwear can be found for pre-order for a restricted five-day interval from November 4 – 8. The footwear will promote for $200 utilizing USDC through Solana Pay and can be found in two {custom} designs: “mild mode” and “darkish mode,” with the Solana-inspired design symbolizing the steadiness between computer systems and telephones with bodily exercise.

When clients buy their footwear, they are going to obtain an ASICS Badge NFT. This digital collectible will unlock entry to future ASICS rewards and experiences.

Picture: ASICS

Based mostly in Kobe, Japan, ASICS—quick for Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, Latin for “A Sound Thoughts in a Sound Physique,”—was based in September 1949. ASICS launched its first NFT assortment, Dawn Purple, in July 2021.

Tempo says that whereas digital style tends in direction of high-end merchandise, ASICS selected to remain true to its founder’s imaginative and prescient and follow what they’re recognized for: trainers.

“We have purposely chosen to remain true to ourselves with this undertaking and do what we’re recognized for,” he mentioned. “Which is making superb trainers, and trainers that you’d be excited to put on actually day-after-day.”

Tempo says ASICS selected to work with Solana to create a quick, scalable product with low transaction prices for most people.

“We wish to be constructing our program on a blockchain that we all know can scale globally from day one and past,” he mentioned. “Raj [Gokal] and Anatoly [Yakovenko] have constructed an unbelievable tradition at Solana that is welcoming, type, and open. The individuals who work for them are the identical manner.”

Launched in 2021 by app developer FindSatoshi Lab, STEPN is a smartphone app constructed on Ethereum rival Solana that lets customers earn cash by strolling, jogging, or working. Customers with NFT sneakers are rewarded for strolling, jogging, or working with in-game tokens that can be utilized to mint new sneakers.

A non-fungible token, or NFT, is a blockchain token that represents possession of distinctive digital or bodily gadgets, together with digital paintings, online game gadgets, or membership in unique teams like the worldwide sensation Bored Ape Yacht Membership.

At present the tenth largest blockchain by market capitalization in response to CoinGecko, Solana is a well-liked rival to the a lot bigger Ethereum community because of its excessive velocity and low price. The 2 blockchains are even nearer rivals now that Ethereum has accomplished its long-anticipated merge to a proof-of-stake consensus algorithm earlier this 12 months.

“Individuals construct on Solana, and it’s builder-friendly,” Tempo mentioned. “So if we will preserve that builder group wholesome by going for walks and runs, all of it comes again full circle. The more healthy and extra energetic they’re, the higher packages and apps they will construct on Solana.”