Who Owns ASICS?
ASICS is owned by ASICS Corporation, a publicly traded Japanese company founded by Kihachiro Onitsuka in 1949. ASICS trades on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under ticker 7936 and is headquartered in Kobe, Japan. The company operates independently and is known for its technical running shoes and sports performance equipment.
Parent Company
ASICS Corporation
Founded
1949
Status
Publicly Traded
Headquarters
Kobe, Japan
Who Owns ASICS?
- Parent Company: ASICS Corporation
- Ownership Type: Wholly owned
- Company Type: Publicly Traded
- Stock Ticker: TSE (Tokyo Stock Exchange): 7936
| Brand | Parent Company | Ownership Type |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS | ASICS Corporation | Wholly owned |
History of ASICS
- Founded: 1949
- Founders: Kihachiro Onitsuka
ASICS was founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka as Onitsuka Co., Ltd. in Kobe, Japan. The company initially focused on manufacturing basketball shoes in post-war Japan, with Onitsuka's philosophy centered on the belief that sports could positively impact youth development.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Onitsuka Tiger expanded its product range and gained international recognition, particularly in running shoes. The company's reputation for quality and innovation led to partnerships with athletes and growing export markets. In 1966, the distinctive crossed stripes design was introduced, becoming a signature element of the brand.
In 1977, Onitsuka Tiger merged with GTO and JELENK to form ASICS Corporation, with the new name reflecting the company's broader mission of promoting overall fitness and well-being. The merger expanded the company's capabilities and market reach across multiple sports categories.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, ASICS established itself as a leader in technical running shoes, introducing innovative cushioning technologies and expanding globally. The company developed specialized footwear for various sports while maintaining its reputation for quality and performance-oriented design.
About ASICS Corporation
ASICS Corporation is a leading Japanese multinational company specializing in sports equipment, footwear, and apparel. The company operates through a global network of subsidiaries, distributors, and retail operations across Asia, Europe, North America, and other international markets.
The company maintains significant investment in research and development, operating the ASICS Institute of Sport Science in Kobe and other research facilities globally. ASICS Corporation focuses on technical innovation in athletic footwear and apparel, conducting extensive research on biomechanics, sports science, and materials technology.
ASICS Corporation serves both performance athletes and casual consumers through its diverse product portfolio, which includes running shoes, training footwear, court sports equipment, and lifestyle apparel. The company's emphasis on technical performance and quality has established it as a respected brand in the global sports industry.
- Founded: 1949
- Headquarters: Kobe, Japan
- Company Type: Publicly Traded
- Stock: TSE (Tokyo Stock Exchange): 7936
Where Is ASICS Made / Based?
- Headquarters: Kobe, Japan
- Manufacturing / Operations: Japan, China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Various international locations
ASICS Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Strong Japanese heritage and reputation for quality manufacturing
- +Technical innovation in footwear technology and sports science research
- +Global distribution network with strong presence in Asian markets
- +Focus on performance and athletic functionality over fashion trends
- +Established brand credibility among serious athletes and runners
Considerations
- -Intense competition from global athletic brands like Nike and Adidas
- -Dependence on specialty athletic market versus mass-market appeal
- -Manufacturing and supply chain complexity across multiple countries
- -Need for continuous R&D investment to maintain technical advantage
- -Currency fluctuations affecting international operations and pricing
Frequently Asked Questions About ASICS
Where to Buy
Disclosure: We may earn commission from purchases
ASICS on AmazonCompetitors to ASICS
These competing brands operate in the same categories and provide similar products or services. Compare key attributes to understand market positioning and competitive landscape.
| Brand | Parent Company | Country | Founded | Market Position | Primary Market | Gender Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike | USA | 1984 | Mass Market | North America | All Genders |
Learn More About Competitors
Competitive Analysis
Market Positioning: ASICS competes with 1 brands in the same categories, ranging from mass market to luxury positioning.
Geographic Distribution: Competitors are headquartered across multiple regions, indicating global competition in this market segment.
Brand Heritage: Competitor brands range from established heritage brands to newer market entrants, with founding years spanning several decades.
ASICS Corporation Stock Information
Jobs at ASICS Corporation
Latest News About ASICS
Related Articles About ASICS
View more articles
Sneaker Brand Ownership: Nike, Adidas, and Beyond
Who owns the biggest sneaker brands? From Nike's Jordan empire to Adidas' Yeezy fallout, explore the complete ownership map of the $131 billion global sneaker market.
Who Owns Nike? The Full Ownership Picture Beyond the Swoosh
Nike is the world's largest sportswear company. But who actually owns Nike, what brands does it control, and how does its ownership compare to rivals Adidas and New Balance?
Monthly M&A Roundup: February 2026 Brand Ownership Changes
From Keurig Dr Pepper's planned split to the Netflix-WBD saga, here is every major brand ownership change and deal in February 2026.
People Also Searched
Discover popular brands and companies in the Sports category and related searches from other users.
AC Milan
Italian professional football club based in Milan, competing in Serie A and one of the most successful and prestigious clubs in world football.
Arc'teryx
Canadian premium outdoor apparel and equipment brand known for technical mountain clothing and innovative design, owned by Amer Sports.
Armada
American manufacturer of freestyle skis, ski boots, poles, and technical outerwear, known for athlete-driven innovation and freestyle skiing culture.