• Company Name: ASICS Corporation
• Founded: 1 September 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 the Second World War with the objective of encouraging young people to enhance both their physical and mental health through sport. The company originally operated as Onitsuka Co., Ltd., manufacturing basketball shoes in Kobe, Japan.

One of the firm’s earliest innovations emerged from studying the gripping mechanism of octopus suction cups. This observation inspired the development of basketball shoes with superior traction, helping to establish the company’s reputation for functional design.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Onitsuka Tiger shoes gained popularity amongst athletes competing internationally, with the brand becoming recognised for quality craftsmanship and performance.

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

The guiding philosophy of ASICS centres on promoting holistic health through movement. The company’s mission emphasises:

• Encouraging lifelong participation in sport
• Improving physical and mental wellness
• Supporting athletes through scientific research
• Designing products based on biomechanics and human movement

This ethos is encapsulated in the Latin motto:

Anima Sana In Corpore Sano
“A Sound Mind in a Sound Body.”

ASICS is noted for its substantial investment in sports science. The company operates the ASICS Institute of Sport Science in Kobe, where researchers investigate:

• Running biomechanics
• Foot pressure analysis
• Cushioning technologies
• Injury prevention
• Material engineering
• Energy efficiency

Rather than focusing solely on aesthetics, ASICS develops products utilising laboratory testing involving both competitive athletes and recreational runners.

ASICS has introduced numerous proprietary footwear technologies, including:

• GEL™ Technology – Silicone-based cushioning designed to absorb shock during impact.
• FF BLAST™ Foam – Lightweight cushioning providing a soft yet responsive ride.
• FlyteFoam™ – Lightweight midsole material engineered for durability and energy return.
• GUIDESOLE™ – Curved sole design intended to reduce ankle movement and improve efficiency.
• TRUSSTIC™ System – Structural component that enhances stability whilst reducing shoe weight.
• ASICSGRIP™ – High-traction outsole rubber formulated for trail running.

These technologies are deployed across different product categories according to intended use.

ASICS manufactures products for a diverse range of sports and activities:

• Road running
• Trail running
• Tennis
• Volleyball
• Wrestling
• Track and field
• Training and fitness
• Walking
• Lifestyle sneakers
• Athletic apparel
• Compression clothing
• Sports accessories

Popular shoe series

Key footwear lines within the ASICS portfolio 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 serves as the company’s heritage lifestyle brand. Whilst ASICS focuses primarily on athletic performance, Onitsuka Tiger emphasises fashion-inspired footwear that blends vintage designs with modern aesthetics. Classic models such as the MEXICO 66 have achieved popularity extending beyond the traditional sports market.

ASICS sponsors numerous:

• Olympic athletes
• Professional runners
• Tennis players
• Volleyball teams
• Road races and marathons
• National athletics organisations

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

ASICS has expanded its sustainability efforts through several key initiatives:

• 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 amongst runners and sports medicine professionals for its emphasis on fit, stability, cushioning, and injury prevention.

From its origins in post-war Japan to its current status as a global sportswear leader, ASICS has remained committed to helping individuals 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 worldwide.