Asics Brings Back Its Skyhand as a Great Alternative to the Adidas Samba

The handball sneaker made its debut in 1993.

While Asics has done well to take advantage of the Y2K running craze, it’s now bringing back another archival model that may capitalize on some of the same appeal of the Adidas Samba.

The Asics Skyhand has made its return with two colorways dressing the low-profile sneaker. Originally launched in 1993 for handball, the model has been retooled with more modern technology and a slimmer fit. Asics’ Flytefoam is used for the forefoot of the midsole, while more typical EVA foam is applied to the heel. The majority of the upper is then rendered in suede, as leather is used for Asics’ striping and the modernized mustache.

The Skyhand was first reintroduced through a collaboration with the Danish design Hay earlier in the summer. For its wider return to the market, the sneaker now is now treated to colorways in “Cilantro/Grapefruit” and “Midnight Plum” and “Koi” orange. Both editions then sit atop a gum outsole.

Asics has had a strong 2024 that includes being recently named as the fastest growing brand in the American outdoor specialty market based on the 12 months prior. The Japanese brand also reported double-digit growth in North American sales for the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same time period of the year prior. Tlifestyle category to which the Skyhand belongs has grown by triple digits, largely bolstered by the Gel-1130TM and Gel-Kayano 14.

The Asics Skyhand OG is out now through Asics’ website and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $100.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.