Comfort And Performance: The Innovative Tech Of Asics Shoes

Asics shoes, as a brand, were launched in 1949 in Kobe, Japan, under the stewardship of Kihachiro Onitsuka. The spirit of the brand is encapsulated by the Latin saying ‘anima sana in corpore sano’ (meaning ‘a sound mind in a sound body’), for which Asics is an acronym.

Asics has since become a celebrated sports shoe company all over the world. Their values revolve around providing valuable sports products and services to their customers, being socially responsible, and using sports as a tool for social improvement.

Thanks to their philosophy of promoting physical and mental health and happiness through their shoe designs and engineering, Asics has grown into a brand enjoyed by professional athletes and everyday individuals worldwide.

Asics in the athletic shoe industry

Asics began with a war veteran turned basketball shoe maker. After returning home from the Second World War in 1945, Kihachiro Onitsuka found a challenge in the difficulties of creating a basketball shoe, realising that succeeding with this particular shoe design would pave the way for future success.

Under the name ONITSUKA Co., Ltd., prototypes of his shoe design were given to leading basketball teams of that era for testing. After some refinement, the brand’s first official shoe model was unveiled in the spring of 1950 – and the rest is history.

Continuous development of high-performance running shoes has been a company focus since the 1960s. Asics has also partnered with other designers and brands to create limited-edition shoes, driving up the demand and recognition for the brand.

All these factors combined continue to make Asics a force to be reckoned with in the athletic shoe industry.

The art and science behind Asics shoes

Asics shoes are well-known for their high performance and great comfort, which is attributed to their trademarked technologies.

Asics’ GEL technology creates a cushioning system that delivers unparalleled shock absorption and comfort. Found in the midsole, this technology minimises impact and ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe.

Similarly, FlyteFoam is a lightweight and responsive cushioning system that is lighter than traditional EVA foam, making it perfect for long-distance running. By contrast, the Asics TRUSSTIC system improves stability and torsional rigidity. Found in the midfoot area, it inhibits shoe-twisting during movement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Asics shoes good for?

Asics is a great brand choice for a variety of running activities for several reasons.

• Cushioning and support. Asics shoes provide excellent cushioning and support, making them ideal for all types of running on various surfaces.
• Comfort. Known for a wider toe box, the brand offers more comfort for runners with wide feet or those preferring extra toe room.
• Versatility. Asics offers a diverse collection of shoe models designed for different running styles and pronation types, making them suitable for a wide array of athletic activities.
• Durability. Asics is known for the durability of its shoe designs, making its shoes a reliable choice for high-mileage training.

How to choose Asics shoes?

When choosing your pair of Asics shoes, consider the following:

• Running style. Identify your running style. This helps select the right Asics shoe, providing the necessary support and stability.
• Pronation type. Asics designs shoes for different pronation types, including neutral, overpronation, and underpronation. Knowing your pronation type will help you pick the right shoe for ideal support and alignment.
• Reviews and recommendations. Research reviews and expert advice for insights into the performance, comfort, and features of Asics shoe models.

If you’re not sure where to begin, Sportitude offers a consultation service with shoe experts to guide you towards a shoe make or model ideally suited to your needs. You can book a Life Fit video consultation through our website.

Where to buy Asics shoes?

Asics shoes are available worldwide through the brand’s physical stores and retailers like Sportitude. Sportitude features Australia's largest range of high-performance running footwear, including Asics and other running shoes and athletic wear brands.

Sportitude is more than just a running shoe retailer for popular athletic wear like Asics shoes and apparel.

We also provide training tips and resources, supporting runners in achieving their fitness goals. Sportitude’s loyalty program also rewards customers for their purchases, offering discounts, exclusive offers, and other benefits.

Can Asics shoes be washed?

Proper maintenance is critical to prolonging the lifespan of your Asics shoes. Here are a few suggested steps to minimise unintended damage:

• Do not machine wash. Avoid machine washing, as this can damage the fabric and general structure of your shoes.
• Hand wash outsoles. Use a soft brush with warm, soapy water to clean the outsoles. Rinse with a wet sponge or cloth, but take care not to submerge or soak your shoes.
• Clean the insoles. Clean the insoles with a mild soap and water solution, baking soda and water, or a mix of water and vinegar.
• Air-dry. Let the shoes air-dry at room temperature. Avoid using a dryer or exposing the shoes to direct sunlight or heat.

Embrace the power of attitude with Sportitude.

At Sportitude, we believe that success in both running and life is rooted in attitude.

This philosophy is the driving force behind our curation of high-performance running gear, from sleek compression tights that provide unparalleled comfort to our expansive selection of men’s running shoes, trail running shoes, and notable brands like Hoka shoes and Mizuno shoes.

We believe that the right gear, coupled with a steadfast attitude, can propel you towards your personal best, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your running journey. So put on your running shorts, lace up your running shoes, and hit the road.