KNS teams up with ASICS in a collaboration that feels both unexpected and remarkably composed. Rooted in shared values around performance and longevity, the partnership translates sneaker technology into furniture designed for shared environments.

The result is the Castor Lobby Sofa and Polar Lounge Chair L/S, two lounge pieces that quietly reframe what sustainable contract seating can look like. Their cushions are made from unused ASICS shoes, dismantled and crushed into EVA foam chips, then blended with cotton and layered over a compressed foam sheet. The construction delivers a measured balance of give and support, tuned for durability rather than indulgence.

What stands out is the restraint. There’s no visual push to announce the material story. The forms stay clean, architectural, and calm. Exactly what designers want for lobbies, waiting areas, or workplace lounges where furniture has to perform without demanding attention.

That sneaker-to-seating crossover lands in a lineage of subtle fashion influence, not unlike the footwear-forward thinking explored in this 3rings story on Ballerina Sneakers by JW PEI Here, the translation feels especially grounded.

A small embroidered tag nods to the collaboration. The comfort does the rest, proving sustainable contract seating doesn’t need to shout to be convincing.