From Onitsuka Tiger to ASICS
The beginnings of ASICS
ASICS was created in 1949, first under the name Onitsuka Tiger, by the Japanese Kihachiro Onitsuka, a war veteran fascinated by sports. The original goal was to create quality footwear for athletes. In 1977, Onitsuka Tiger joined forces with two other companies and was renamed ASICS, the latin acronym for "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano" (a healthy mind in a healthy body). This step represented an expansion with an ambition to focus on technology and sports performance.
ASICS Gel Kayano 14, Gel 1130 and Gel NYC
ASICS stands out above the rest for the launch of innovative models. The Gel-Lyte series introduced GEL technology, bringing a new level of comfort to running shoes. The Gel-Kayano has become a favorite among runners thanks to its innovative design and unique support. Other designs such as the Gel-Nimbus and GT-2000 kept pushing the boundaries of sneaker technology.
ASICS x Kiko Kostadinov, ASICS x Kith, ASICS x Footpatrol
ASICS has successfully combined sports performance and sneaker culture through a series of outstanding collaborations. With Kiko Kostadinov in particular, this partnership has given us innovative shoes that combine avant-garde styling and functionality, catching the eye of the fashion world. The work carried out with Cecilie Bahnsen on the ASICS GT-2160 is also a good example of collaboration between ASICS and a fashion figure.
The Japanese brand has also partnered with leading sneaker stores. Working with Footpatrol, Kith or Concepts, ASICS has created exclusive editions that quickly acquired the status of collector's items, strengthening its reputation in the sneakerhead community. These elements demonstrate ASICS' ability to keep reinventing itself and staying relevant. They also illustrate the brand's commitment to creating products that are not just sports equipment, but also fashion items.
