ASICS Brand Overview and History
Founded in 1949 as Onitsuka Tiger by Kihachiro Onitsuka in Kobe, Japan, ASICS has evolved into a global leader in performance footwear. The name ASICS stands for the Latin phrase 'Anima Sana In Corpore Sano' – a sound mind in a sound body – reflecting its commitment to holistic athletic excellence. In 1977, it rebranded to ASICS, introducing revolutionary technologies like the GEL system in 1986, which revolutionized impact absorption. Today, ASICS dominates the running shoe market, sponsoring elite athletes and marathons worldwide, with a focus on road running shoes that blend innovation, durability, and style for everyday runners and pros alike.
Key Product Categories and Features
ASICS excels in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry > Men > Shoes > Athletic > Running > Road Running and Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry > Women > Shoes > Athletic > Running > Road Running. Our featured products highlight their prowess:
- Asics Men's Gel-Contend 9 Running Shoes (4.6/5): Affordable entry-level shoe with GEL cushioning for shock absorption, breathable mesh upper, and durable AHAR outsole. Ideal for beginners tackling daily road runs.
- Asics Women's Gel-Contend 9 Running Shoes (4.6/5): Same reliable tech in a women's fit, offering plush rearfoot GEL and lightweight design for comfortable miles.
- ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 27 Running Shoes (4.6/5): Premium neutral shoe with FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL for max cushioning, perfect for long-distance road warriors.
- ASICS Men's NOVABLAST 5 Running Shoes (4.6/5): Energetic ride with FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco and bouncy midsole, responsive for tempo runs and races.
- ASICS Women's NOVABLAST 5 Running Shoes (4.6/5): Women's version delivers the same explosive energy return, with engineered knit upper for secure fit.
- ASICS Men's GT-2000 13 Running Shoes (4.5/5): Stability shoe with 3D Guidance System and Lite-Show reflector for guided support on roads.
- ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes (4.5/5): Versatile daily trainer with AmpliFoam midsole and seamless upper for all-day comfort.
- ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 27 Running Shoe (4.4/5): Luxurious cushioning tailored for women, featuring jacquard mesh for breathability and endurance.
Common features across ASICS road runners include advanced cushioning (GEL, FF BLAST), breathable engineered meshes, reflective accents for visibility, and AHAR+ outsoles for longevity – all optimized for pavement pounding.
Why Choose ASICS Running Shoes?
Choosing ASICS means investing in shoes that science backs: biomechanical research ensures proper alignment, reducing injury risk by up to 20% per studies. With high ratings (4.4-4.6/5), runners praise the plush yet responsive feel, making them versatile for 5Ks to marathons. Sustainability shines through eco-friendly foams like FF BLAST PLUS ECO, derived from sugarcane. As an affiliate favorite, ASICS offers unbeatable value – snag deals on Gel-Contend for budget runs or Nimbus for premium plush. Superior to competitors in durability tests, they outlast averages by 100+ miles, keeping you on track without breakdowns. Join millions who trust ASICS for faster, pain-free runs.
FAQ
What makes ASICS GEL technology special?
GEL technology uses silicone-based inserts in the heel and forefoot to absorb shock, providing superior cushioning and joint protection compared to traditional foams.
Are ASICS shoes good for beginners?
Yes! Models like Gel-Contend 9 offer forgiving cushioning and stability, perfect for new road runners building mileage without discomfort.
How do ASICS men's and women's shoes differ?
Women's shoes feature narrower heels, wider forefoots, and adjusted geometry to match female biomechanics for optimal fit and support.
What's the best ASICS shoe for long runs?
Gel-Nimbus 27 series excels with maximum cushioning and energy return, ideal for marathons and ultra-distances.
Do ASICS run true to size?
Generally yes, but opt for half-size up for swelling on long runs; check size charts as fits vary by model.
