Asics is a well-known sports brand that has been around for decades. However, not many people know that the company started out by selling shoes under a different name. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this popular brand and how it evolved into the Asics we know today.
The global sports brand that originally started by selling ASICS shoes is none other than ASICS itself. Founded in 1949 in Japan, ASICS initially specialized in producing basketball shoes before expanding into other sports footwear and apparel. Today, ASICS is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of products for various sports and fitness activities across the globe.
Asics: From Running Shoes to Global Sports Brand
Asics is a Japanese multinational corporation that produces sports equipment and footwear. The company was founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka and initially began by producing basketball shoes. However, it was not until 1977 that the company changed its name to Asics, an acronym for the Latin phrase “anima sana in corpore sano” meaning “a sound mind in a sound body”.
A Brief History of Asics
Asics started its journey as a small sports shoe company in Kobe, Japan, in 1949. However, it was not until the 1950s that the company began to produce running shoes, which would become its most iconic product. In the 1960s, Asics began to expand its product line to include sports equipment and apparel, such as volleyball gear and tracksuits.
Asics continued to grow throughout the 1970s and 1980s and became a household name in the world of sports. The company sponsored several high-profile athletes and teams, including the Australian cricket team and the Brazilian football team. Today, Asics is one of the largest global sports brands, with a presence in over 100 countries and a wide range of products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories.
The Evolution of Asics Shoes
Asics is best known for its running shoes, which have undergone several transformations since the company’s inception. In the early days, Asics running shoes were designed to be lightweight and comfortable, with a focus on functionality rather than style. However, as the company grew, it began to incorporate new technologies and designs into its shoes, making them more comfortable, supportive, and stylish.
Today, Asics running shoes are some of the most advanced on the market, with features such as gel cushioning, breathable mesh uppers, and impact guidance systems. The company also produces shoes for other sports, such as tennis, volleyball, and wrestling, all of which are designed with the same level of attention to detail and innovation as its running shoes.
Asics vs. Other Sports Brands
Asics is just one of many global sports brands, but it stands out from the crowd in several ways. Firstly, the company has a strong focus on innovation, with a dedicated research and development team that is constantly working to improve its products. Secondly, Asics has a reputation for producing high-quality, durable products that are designed to last. Finally, the company has a strong commitment to sustainability, with initiatives such as the Asics Sustainability Vision 2030, which aims to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices.
When compared to other sports brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Reebok, Asics holds its own in terms of product quality and innovation. However, it may not have the same level of brand recognition or marketing power as these larger companies. Nonetheless, Asics has built a loyal following among athletes and sports enthusiasts who appreciate the company’s commitment to quality and innovation.
The Future of Asics
Asics has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a small sports shoe company in Japan. Today, the company is a global sports brand that produces a wide range of products for athletes and sports enthusiasts around the world. However, Asics is not content to rest on its laurels and is constantly looking for ways to improve and innovate.
In the coming years, Asics plans to focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives such as the Asics Sustainability Vision 2030 and the Asics Better World campaign. The company also plans to continue developing new technologies and designs for its products, with a focus on creating products that are both functional and stylish.
Conclusion
Asics is a global sports brand that has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a small sports shoe company in Japan. Today, the company produces a wide range of products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories, and has a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and sustainability. Whether you are a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, Asics has something to offer, and its commitment to excellence and innovation is sure to keep it at the forefront of the sports industry for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Asics?
Asics is a Japanese multinational corporation that sells athletic equipment, including footwear, for a variety of sports.
The name “Asics” is an acronym for the Latin phrase “anima sana in corpore sano,” which translates to “a sound mind in a sound body.”
When was Asics founded?
Asics was founded in 1949 in Kobe, Japan.
Originally, the company was called Onitsuka Co. Ltd., and it focused on making basketball shoes for the Japanese market.
What sports does Asics make equipment for?
Asics makes equipment for a wide range of sports, including running, volleyball, tennis, and wrestling, among others.
The company is known for its high-quality running shoes and has sponsored many professional runners over the years.
What other products does Asics sell besides shoes?
In addition to shoes, Asics sells a variety of athletic equipment, including clothing, bags, and accessories.
The company also offers a range of fitness and training programs, including online coaching and personalized training plans.
How has Asics evolved since its founding?
Since its founding, Asics has expanded its product line and global reach.
The company has acquired several other sports brands, including Haglofs and Runkeeper, and has established a strong presence in the United States and Europe.
The Rise of Asics: How an Octopus Tentacle Led to a Running Shoe Empire
In conclusion, the global sports brand that originally started by selling Asics shoes is none other than Onitsuka Tiger. This brand has come a long way since its inception in 1949 and has earned a reputation for producing high-quality athletic footwear. Despite the brand’s early struggles in the market, its perseverance and dedication to innovation have made it a top choice among athletes and sports enthusiasts worldwide.
Today, Onitsuka Tiger has expanded its product line beyond just shoes, offering a diverse range of athletic wear and accessories. But its commitment to quality and performance remains unchanged. Whether you’re a professional athlete or just someone who enjoys a good workout, you can trust the Onitsuka Tiger brand to provide you with the support and comfort you need to succeed.
In summary, Onitsuka Tiger is a brand that has stood the test of time, and its success is a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence. With its focus on innovation and quality, it’s no wonder that this brand continues to be a favorite among sports enthusiasts worldwide. So if you’re looking for top-notch athletic footwear and gear, look no further than Onitsuka Tiger.
