The Gel Lyte 3 'Koi' was first introduced by Dusseldorf sneaker store Afew in 2012 as a tribute to the city's Japanese community. Recognizing its popularity, ASICS approached Afew in 2015 with the opportunity to revamp the shoe for a wider audience as part of the Gel Lyte 3's 25th anniversary celebration. Launched during the annual Japan Day festival in Dusseldorf, this unique split-tongue sneaker showcases a stylish combination of suede and leather materials, adorned in a striking red, white, and black color palette inspired by the koi fish. Adding to its distinctive appeal, the outsole features a vibrant, multicolored print, complemented by a translucent insert in the heel. Moreover, the right heel proudly displays a leather patch adorned with the Japanese word for friendship. To enhance the overall experience, Afew offered the shoe in a special in-store release, packaged in a meticulously crafted wooden bento box that included a set of Afew x ASICS Chopsticks and two additional pairs of laces.