Can Asics Make Walking Shoes Cool?

One of fashion’s favorite sneaker brands is hoping to encourage more people to get their 10,000 steps in. Best known for its high-performance running shoes, this month, Asics is launching a new range of walking shoes in the hopes of driving global sales.

On top of its sports offering, the Japanese company has managed to establish a strong standing in the fashion market through long-term partnerships with designers including Kiko Kostadinov and Cecile Bahnsen. Now, this week in Tokyo, the brand will roll out its Asics Walking line — previously only available in Japan, since launching in 1983 — to the global market with the Moon Amble, a new flagship range of squishy-soled shoes marketed for everyday walking.