Highsnobiety
Double Tap to Zoom

ASICS is always up to something good. The Japanese sneaker giant is nothing if not busy, constantly rolling out forward-thinking collabs as often as it debuts innovative freshness.

The ASICS GEL-Venture 6 Shield falls into that latter camp.

This is a dad shoe designed for a genuinely hardwearing dad lifestyle.

Need a shoe that can combat scuffs? Look no further.

Debuted in an ASICS Korea photoshoot more focused on charming Korean actor Ryoo Seung-bum, the ASICS GEL-Venture 6 Shield is a clever running sneaker intended for the long haul.

The chunkish shoe wears a built in shield — hence the name — that extends from the heel to the toebox, protecting the retro-leaning runner's precious mesh upper from the ills of the daily grind.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this Instagram post.

In practice, the resulting design feels very adidas Ozweego, what with that layered look across the upper.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this Instagram post.

Add in the Kiko Kostadinov-flavored appeal of three very muted colorways and you have a shoe that's borderline fashion-y.

But in effect, the GEL-Venture 6 Shield lives up to its name as a resolutely sturdy shoe meant for the rough n' tumble incidents of daily life.

I don't doubt that it'll survive some real rugged terrain, too, especially as the GEL-Venture 6 Shield is part of ASICS' outdoorsy Venture line.

Step back and admire: this sneaker has a nice shape, versatile colorways, an unpretentiously nice bit of detailing that's also quite useful — a solid, understated update to an already solid shoe.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this Instagram post.

And who could complain about a sneaker that lasts a little longer? All it needs is an international release date.

We Recommend
  • A Different Flavor of Y2K Dad Shoe (EXCLUSIVE)
  • To Advance a Signature Style, ASICS Returned to Its Roots
  • The World’s Best Restaurant, ASICS Sneakers & Ultra-Rare Books… All Under One Roof
  • doublet's Next ASICS Sneaker Is the "Strangest Comfort"
  • ASICS' Lace Dad Shoe Shouldn't Go This Hard
What To Read Next
  • Quiksilver’s Festival Reminds Us Why Surfing Matters More Than Ever
  • Militarie Gun: Thriving on Chaos
  • The Beachy Return of Stüssy's COMME des GARÇONS Fragrance
  • Mercedes-Benz Unveils League of Legends CLA Art Piece Inspired by the Summoner’s Cup
  • Jordan's Best New Signature Shoe Came Back Stronger
  • Nike’s Most Utilitarian Air Max Shoe Becomes Truly Wild