Back-to-school Season
The new school year is approaching, bringing plenty of miles across schoolyards, campuses and city streets. Right now, few brands fit that lifestyle better than ASICS. Based on WOOVIN popularity data from the past 30 days, two retro runners stand out as the defining silhouettes of the back-to-school season: the GEL-Kayano 14 and the GEL-NYC.
In this overview, we highlight the most popular ASICS styles currently on WOOVIN, including their latest starting prices from our sellers.
Why ASICS is dominating the back-to-school season
The comeback of the technical retro runner is no longer just a trend — it has become a permanent part of the streetwear landscape. ASICS has benefited significantly from this shift. While the brand was once primarily known for performance running shoes, models such as the GEL-Kayano 14 now sit at the top of sneaker wishlists.
For the school season, one thing matters above all: comfort that lasts throughout the day. GEL cushioning in the heel, a supportive midsole and breathable mesh make these silhouettes well suited to long days — exactly what you need from the first class to the final bus ride home.
Then there are the colourways. The most popular ASICS styles share a palette of understated grey, cream and silver tones that work with almost any outfit. Neutral, versatile and easy to style — ideal if you want one pair to carry you through the entire semester.
The most popular ASICS on WOOVIN right now
Our popularity score combines page views, wishlist additions and orders. Based on data from the past month, the current top styles are:
ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 White Graphite Grey — the best-performing ASICS on the platform, starting from €149.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 Cream Sweet Pink — starting from €129.
ASICS Gel-NYC Cloud Grey — starting from €130.
ASICS Gel-NYC Concrete Barely Rose — starting from €133.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 White Fjord Grey — starting from €149.
Two model families dominate the list: the GEL-Kayano and the GEL-NYC. Together, they account for the majority of ASICS demand on WOOVIN this season.
GEL-Kayano 14: the undisputed number one
The GEL-Kayano line sits at the heart of ASICS' current popularity. Originally introduced as a running shoe in the mid-2000s, the GEL-Kayano 14 combines a layered mesh upper with metallic overlays and visible GEL cushioning in the heel. The result is its distinctive technical aesthetic alongside the comfort the model is known for.
For back to school, the range of colourways is particularly appealing. White Graphite Grey and White Fjord Grey keep things clean and neutral, while Cream Sweet Pink adds a softer touch. If you prefer a darker accent, the White Light Navy — starting from €155 — is another option. Depending on the colourway, GEL-Kayano 14 prices on WOOVIN start at around €129.
GEL-NYC: the versatile alternative
Alongside the Kayano, the GEL-NYC continues to gain ground. The model is a hybrid built from elements of classic ASICS running silhouettes, with a sturdier, chunkier profile. This gives the GEL-NYC a slightly more substantial look than the Kayano — making it a strong choice if you prefer a heavier silhouette.
Cloud Grey and Concrete Barely Rose are among the most-viewed colourways, while Storm Cloud Pure Silver — starting from €134 — leans further into the metallic, futuristic aesthetic.
Looking for a lower entry price? The ASICS GEL-NYC Graphite Grey Black is currently available on WOOVIN starting from €113.
Sizing and fit for the entire school day
Both the GEL-Kayano 14 and GEL-NYC generally fit true to size, with a slightly roomier fit around the forefoot. If you're between two sizes, the smaller size will usually be the better choice with these models, as the mesh gives slightly as you break them in.
For long school days, comfort is one of their biggest advantages. GEL cushioning and the supportive midsole provide lasting comfort throughout the day.
How to choose your back-to-school pair
If you want to spend as little as possible, the ASICS GEL-Kayano 14 White Ivory is worth checking out. It currently starts from €85 on WOOVIN, while its cream-white base makes it incredibly easy to style.
If you're looking for the best-performing model, the White Graphite Grey is the safe choice. And if you prefer a more substantial silhouette, the GEL-NYC is the way to go. All three options share the same versatile, neutral foundation, making them easy to wear throughout the entire semester.
Need more inspiration? Check out our top five sneaker models on WOOVIN this summer or explore the wider selection in our sneakers category. You can also browse our seasonal selection for more season-specific inspiration.
Ready for the new school year
The numbers are clear: when it comes to ASICS this back-to-school season, the GEL-Kayano 14 and GEL-NYC lead the way. Neutral colourways, reliable cushioning and prices on WOOVIN starting from €85 make them a natural choice for all-day wear.
Every ASICS pair sold on WOOVIN is 100% verified and authentic, so you can start the new school year with confidence.
