Quick Facts
- The most notable feature of the “Hidden Layers of Phra Nakhon” pair is the crochet-knit toebox and side panels
- On the sole, a spray foam-style addition is made to replicate the streets of the city, and a diamond pattern on the insoles and Thailand release special box is a reference to a traditional Chula kite
- The CARNIVAL x Asics Gel-Kayano 12.1 will be released first on April 4, 2026 in Thailand through CARNIVAL in-store and online, with a global release to follow on April 17, 2026
This content may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission.
For some collabs, sneaker brands are clear about keeping partnerships to a limit of select materials, focusing instead on color combos and co-branding opportunities. Thankfully for Bangkok boutique CARNIVAL, its relationship with Asics allows for a little more leeway on creativity and playfulness.
To celebrate the shop’s 15th anniversary, CARVINAL and Asics are joining forces for another collab, this time turning the Gel-Kayano 12.1 into a walking tribute to the historic central Bangkok neighborhood, Phra Nakhon. We got a sneak preview of the upcoming anniversary collab last week, and now, CARNIVAL has let us in on the details behind the design, along with a global release schedule for the carefully curated pair.
The most notable feature of the “Hidden Layers of Phra Nakhon” pair is the crochet-knit toebox and side panels. Stitched in cream thread, the Thai Kanok-inspired pattern reveals subtle hits of color underneath. On the sole, a spray foam-style addition is made to replicate the streets of the city, and a diamond pattern on the insoles and Thailand release special box is a reference to a traditional Chula kite.
The CARNIVAL x Asics Gel-Kayano 12.1 will be released first on April 4, 2026 in Thailand through CARNIVAL in-store and online, with a global release to follow on April 17, 2026. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at 7,900 THB (approx. $240). For all the latest Asics collab news and drop info, download the Sole Retriever App.
Zach Harris is a writer based in Philadelphia. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Vice, Complex, High Times, and more. He is obsessed with skateboarding and bowling. He is still looking for his first 300. For tips, reviews, and anything in size 10.5 - zach.h@soleretriever.com
