Toyoda Gosei has partnered with leading sportswear brand ASICS to launch the Skyhand OG sports shoe range, incorporating upcycled leather remnants from car steering wheel production. These eco-friendly trainers will be available on the ASICS online store from 1 February.
Committed to reducing waste, Toyoda Gosei repurposes difficult-to-recycle materials, such as airbag fabric and steering wheel leather, under its Re-S brand, transforming them into bags and accessories. Similarly, ASICS integrates recycled materials into its footwear and apparel, reinforcing its sustainability efforts.
This marks the second collaboration between the two companies, following their January 2023 launch of sports shoes made from recycled airbag fabric. The new Skyhand OG range employs innovative patchwork techniques to maximise material efficiency by combining smaller leather remnants.
The leather is sourced from Toyoda Gosei’s Vietnam plant, where steering wheel production generates these offcuts. As ASICS also manufactures shoes in Vietnam, the collaboration minimises material waste and reduces CO₂ emissions from transportation.
About Toyoda Gosei
Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd., founded in 1949, is a Japan-based global manufacturer specialising in automotive components. Headquartered in Kiyosu, Aichi Prefecture, the company is a key supplier of rubber and plastic parts, safety systems (including airbags and steering wheels), and LED technology. As a Toyota Group member, Toyoda Gosei has a strong global presence, with manufacturing plants and research centres across Asia, North America, and Europe.
The company is committed to sustainability, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 through CO₂ emission reductions, energy-efficient technologies, and renewable energy adoption. Its resource efficiency initiatives focus on sustainable materials, industrial waste reduction, enhanced recycling, and water conservation.
Toyoda Gosei actively supports biodiversity through tree-planting programmes to reduce pollution and promote sustainable land use. It also prioritises diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), fostering gender equality, inclusive workplaces, and fair labour practices. Additionally, the company invests in education, disaster relief, and social welfare while aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and publishing annual sustainability reports.
About ASICS
ASICS, a globally renowned Japanese sportswear brand, specialises in athletic footwear, apparel, and accessories. Founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka, its name is derived from the Latin phrase Anima Sana In Corpore Sano—“A Sound Mind in a Sound Body”—reflecting its commitment to health and well-being through sport. Headquartered in Kobe, Japan, ASICS is recognised for performance-driven innovation, particularly in running shoes and sport-specific gear. Its flagship GEL series is celebrated for advanced technology, comfort, and durability.
ASICS is dedicated to sustainability, targeting net-zero emissions by 2050, with interim goals such as 100% renewable energy in direct operations by 2030. The company incorporates eco-friendly materials, including recycled polyester and bio-based components, while promoting recycling through its “Take Back Programme.” Its waste reduction efforts include minimising packaging, optimising resources, and reducing water consumption. As a Fair Labor Association (FLA) member, ASICS upholds ethical working conditions across its supply chain. The company also promotes mental health through movement, with initiatives like ASICS Move Every Mind.