• Company Name: ASICS Corporation

• Founded: September 1, 1949

• Founder: Kihachiro Onitsuka

• Headquarters: Kobe, Japan

• Industry: Sporting goods

• Products: Running shoes, training shoes, athletic footwear, sports apparel, accessories, and sporting equipment

• Global Presence: More than 150 countries and regions

• Stock Exchange: Tokyo Stock Exchange (Prime Market)

ASICS was established by Kihachiro Onitsuka shortly after World War II. His goal was to encourage young people to improve both their physical and mental health through sports. The company originally operated under the name Onitsuka Co., Ltd., producing basketball shoes in Kobe, Japan.

One of the company’s earliest innovations came from studying how octopus suction cups provided grip. This inspired the development of basketball shoes with improved traction, helping establish the company’s reputation for functional design.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Onitsuka Tiger shoes gained popularity among athletes competing internationally. The brand became recognized for quality craftsmanship and performance.

In 1977, Onitsuka Co., Ltd. merged with GTO and JELENK to form ASICS Corporation. The merger expanded the company’s product portfolio beyond footwear into apparel and sporting equipment.

ASICS’ guiding philosophy is centered on promoting holistic health through movement. The company’s mission emphasizes:

• Encouraging lifelong participation in sports

• Improving physical and mental wellness

• Supporting athletes through scientific research

• Designing products based on biomechanics and human movement

This philosophy is summarized by the Latin motto:

_Anima Sana In Corpore Sano_ “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body.”

ASICS is recognized for investing heavily in sports science. The company operates the ASICS Institute of Sport Science in Kobe, where researchers study:

• Running biomechanics

• Foot pressure analysis

• Cushioning technologies

• Injury prevention

• Material engineering

• Energy efficiency

Rather than focusing solely on style, ASICS develops products using laboratory testing involving athletes and recreational runners.

ASICS has introduced numerous footwear technologies, including:

• GEL™ Technology – Silicone-based cushioning that absorbs shock during impact.

• FF BLAST™ Foam – Lightweight cushioning providing a soft yet responsive ride.

• FlyteFoam™ – Lightweight midsole material designed for durability and energy return.

• GUIDESOLE™ – Curved sole design intended to reduce ankle movement and improve efficiency.

• TRUSSTIC™ System – Structural component that improves stability while reducing shoe weight.

• ASICSGRIP™ – High-traction outsole rubber for trail running.

These technologies appear across different product categories depending on the intended use.

ASICS manufactures products for a wide range of sports:

• Road running

• Trail running

• Tennis

• Volleyball

• Wrestling

• Track and field

• Training and fitness

• Walking

• Lifestyle sneakers

• Athletic apparel

• Compression clothing

• Sports accessories

Some of ASICS’ most recognized footwear lines include:

• GEL-KAYANO™ – Premium stability running shoe.

• GEL-NIMBUS™ – Maximum cushioning for long-distance running.

• GEL-CUMULUS™ – Neutral daily trainer.

• NOVABLAST™ – Highly cushioned, energetic running shoe.

• METASPEED™ – Racing shoes designed for competitive runners.

• GT-2000™ – Stability shoe for everyday training.

• GEL-RESOLUTION™ – Tennis performance shoe.

• GEL-ROCKET™ – Indoor court sports shoe.

Onitsuka Tiger is the company’s heritage lifestyle brand. While ASICS focuses primarily on athletic performance, Onitsuka Tiger emphasizes fashion-inspired footwear that blends vintage designs with modern aesthetics. Classic models such as the MEXICO 66 have become popular beyond the sports market.

ASICS sponsors numerous:

• Olympic athletes

• Professional runners

• Tennis players

• Volleyball teams

• Road races and marathons

• National athletics organizations

The company also partners with sporting events and community initiatives that encourage active lifestyles.

ASICS has expanded its sustainability efforts by:

• Increasing the use of recycled materials in footwear and apparel

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions across operations

• Improving manufacturing efficiency

• Developing more sustainable packaging

• Publishing environmental and social responsibility reports

ASICS is widely regarded as one of the leading performance running brands alongside companies such as Nike, Adidas, New Balance, Brooks Running, and HOKA. The brand is particularly respected among runners and sports medicine professionals for its emphasis on fit, stability, cushioning, and injury prevention.

From its origins in post-war Japan to its position as a global sportswear leader, ASICS has remained committed to helping people achieve healthier, more active lives. By combining scientific research with athlete feedback, the company has earned a reputation for producing reliable, performance-focused footwear and apparel. Its enduring philosophy—_”A Sound Mind in a Sound Body”_—continues to shape its identity and influence athletes around the world.