asics

ASICS

OUR MISSION

ASICS, an acronym derived from the Latin phrase, Anima Sana In Corpore Sano - a sound mind in a sound body. Staying true to the philosophy by which it was founded, every ASICS innovation, every concept, every idea is intended to create the best product. Our mission is to become the number one brand for the sports enthusiast. To accomplish this, we pledge to continue to make the best product; striving to build upon our technological advances and pushing the limits on what we can learn from the body and its needs in athletic gear. We pledge to bring harmony to the body and soul.


HISTORY

In 1949, Mr. Kihachiro Onitsuka began his athletic footwear company (Onitsuka Co., Ltd.) by manufacturing basketball shoes out of his living room in Kobe, Japan. He chose the name ASICS for his company in 1977, based on a famous Latin phrase "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano", which when translated expresses the ancient ideal of "A Sound Mind in a Sound Body." Taking the acronym of this phrase, ASICS was founded on the belief that the best way to create a healthy and happy lifestyle is to promote total health and fitness.

ASICS products were introduced to the United States in 1977 and brought with them an incredible story of athletic performance and technical advancements, a philosophy which still holds true today.


RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

In May 1990, ASICS opened the Research Institute of Sports Science in Kobe. Since then many remarkable technological innovations in sports shoes and apparel have stemmed from this unique site where scientists, athletes and coaches work together.


STUDYING, ANALYZING, TESTING

The institute in Kobe, some 200 miles west of Tokyo, covers more than 45,000 square feet of research facilities. An all-weather running track of 350m, a hall for basketball and volleyball and several test rooms are part of the complex. Studying and analyzing the movements of the human body and testing all kinds of materials, are the main activities of the 200 people who work at the institute. Obviously all this work is being done with only one goal: to enable professional and recreational athletes all over the world to perform better, to reach a higher level and to enjoy themselves.


FUNDAMENTAL AND APPLIED RESEARCH

Observing and analyzing physical movements is the basis of every single ASICS® product. The researchers in Kobe have high-speed cameras, hi-tech measuring equipment and sophisticated computer software at their disposal. Several test rooms have been set up to be able to translate the findings of the fundamental research into new materials and products. Shock absorption systems, anti-overpronation features, outsoles with Wet Grip® Rubber, water-resistant clothing are some of the ASICS' innovations which are put to heavy trials here. Three-dimensional measuring systems are used in Kobe to develop shoes with a perfect fit.


ASICS ATHLETES IN KOBE

On a regular basis ASICS Athletes pay a visit to Kobe. The first goal of such a visit is of course to make sure that he or she can have shoes and apparel that are tailor-made to the exact standards his or her body requires. But there is a second purpose as well. By working with these athletes and their coaches, who represent the absolute best in several disciplines, ASICS can increase its knowledge and experience in order to make an even better product in the future. For the benefit of all athletes.