3 reasons why the Asics GEL-1130 are my favourite sneakers
8/12/2025
Translation: Katherine Martin
If you win my heart once, I’ll be loyal to you forever. Even if you’re just a pair of sneakers. This is my love letter to the Asics GEL-1130.
Although I do my best to keep my outfit choices fresh, it’s super rare for me to get up in the morning and not want to wear comfy sneakers. What can I say? If it’s a crime to enjoy moving through life on what feels like a well-padded cloud, lock me up. This is exactly why I’ve been avoiding jumping on the slim sneaker bandwagon (for now), remaining a staunch advocate of the gorgeously chunky, thick-soled dad shoe aesthetic instead.
Now, there’s one pair of dad sneakers I’ve grown particularly fond of. Over the last few years, these shoes have become just as ubiquitous in my life as my phone and the umpteen lip balms knocking around every one of my handbags: the Asics GEL-1130. Here’s why.
Reason 1: the brand’s been iconic for ages
Sneaker brands are a dime a dozen. Ones that do genuinely good work, consistently staying at the top of their game while being lauded by sneakerheads around the world, on the other hand, are few and far between. Asics is one of those brands. If you’ve ever bought shoes from the brand since it was founded in 1977, you’ve definitely made a good investment. Asics’ entire company philosophy is based on the notion that moving and exercising contribute to a healthy life. It’s no coincidence that the name ASICS is an abbreviation of the Latin proverb «anima sana in corpore sano» – a sound mind in a sound body. So it’s not just the look of these sneakers that makes them an absolute classic – it’s the fact that they’re actually designed to be good for your feet.
Source: Laura Scholz
Reason 2: these sneakers have been going strong since 2008, even surviving an image transformation
The 1130 were originally launched as running shoes in 2008. Part of the GEL-100 series, they were inspired by the design of the GEL-Kayano 14. But were they satisfied with being just running shoes? No siree! When everybody’s love of «ugly shoes» and «dad sneakers» was ignited in the late 2010s and early 2020s, the GEL-1130 embarked on a spectacular double life as an athleisure icon and lifestyle product. And although I rarely work out in my favourite sneakers, I assure you they can do both roles justice. Genuine sportswear and stylish everyday sneakers? Any shoes this adaptable and versatile – and weighing just 266 grammes to boot – deserve a special place in my heart.
Source: Laura Scholz
Reason 3: they tick all my boxes
I love clothes that are minimalist, timeless and easy to combine – characteristics that describe the GEL-1130 to a tee. Mind you, that does obviously depend on which colour scheme you go for. From simple white/silver, to elegant sepia brown/driftwood, to gaudy lavender glow/pure silver, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to colours. The best thing to do – though this is just my personal opinion – is to buy several different pairs. That way, you’ll be able to switch things up occasionally.
Do you share my love of the GEL 1130? Or has a different pair of sneakers won you over? Let me know in the comments.
Laura Scholz
Senior Editor
Laura.Scholz@digitecgalaxus.chAlways in the mood for good hits, great trips and clinking drinks.
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