ASICS and STEPN partner to launch NFT-backed running shoes

Japanese sportswear company ASICS announced the launch of the ASICS X SOLANA UI Collection on Nov.4 in partnership with STEPN. 

The NFT collection features custom-made GT-2000™ 11 performance running shoes, a loyalty ASICS Badge NFT with purchase, which allows users to earn rewards and experiences from ASICs. NFT holders can also participate in an airdrop to win ASICS x STEPN GT-2000™ NFTs. 

The Solana-inspired GT-2000™ 11 performance running shoes come in two custom designs: ‘light mode’ and ‘dark mode,’ representing a healthy balance between screen time and physical activity.  

The Solana-inspired GT-2000™ 11 performance running shoes come in two custom designs: ‘light mode’ and ‘dark mode,’ representing a healthy balance between screen time and physical activity.

Each pair of shoes costs $200 and can be purchased with USDC through Solana Pay ASICS’ website. Pre-order is available globally until Nov 9 at 6:59 AM UTC.

The GT-2000™ 11 performance running shoes became the first ever globally distributed physical product available to order using USDC on Solana Pay. The NFT drop bridges physical and digital commerce to enable a global consumerbase to purchase the product, instant global purchases in cryptocurrency via Solana, rewards for customers for unlocking access to future tokengated rewards and experiences. 

‘As a first mover in this space, ASICS is leading the industry by showing how customers and brands can come together around tokengated experiences that provide ongoing e-benefits to both sides,’ said Josh Fried, Head of Payments Business Development at Solana Labs. 

‘Furthermore, by using USDC payments on Solana Pay, ASICS is breaking down geographic barriers to facilitate transactions around the world and showing just how much more can be done with Web3 commerce,’ he added.

Photo: ASICS