Where Are Asics Shoes Made? | Is It Made in the USA or China?
If you own multiple pairs of Asics shoes then you might have noticed one key difference in all of them, the manufacturers label.
While Asics remains a Japanese brand, their shoes are manufactured across East Asia, in places such as China, Vietnam and Cambodia.
Now i've done a fair amount of research and have found a bunch of places where Asics makes their shoes. This article will answer just that and we'll uncover what goes into their manufacturing process.
Let's get started.
Also Read: Where Is Calvin Klein Made | Are Calvin Klein Products Made in China?
Where Are Asics Shoes Made?
At the heart of its production remains Japan, where Asics was born. The flagship manufacturing unit in Shibuya's Omotesando district stands as a testament to the brand's enduring commitment to its roots.
However, Asics' production reach extends beyond Japan, involving numerous Asian countries such as China, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Vietnam, in particular, has emerged as a key hub, with a major production unit in Ho Chi Minh City.
A notable part of Asics' production also happens in the USA, showcasing the brand's tailored approach to different markets. Despite the global manufacturing spread, the standard of quality, comfort, and innovation that Asics is known for remains steadfast.
Are Asics Shoes Produced in Japan?
Asics, a brand established in Japan in 1949, has grown significantly over the years. Despite its global expansion, the heart of Asics production remains in its homeland.
Its flagship manufacturing unit is nestled in the Omotesando district, Shibuya, Japan, close to the company's headquarters in Kobe.
This location is the birthplace of many famous Asics models, underlining the brand's continued commitment to its Japanese roots.
Do Asics Make Their Shoes in Other Asian Countries?
Asian countries are a significant part of Asics' production network. In addition to Japan, Asics shoes are made in China, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
The Asics Trainers, known for their snug fit and innovative GEL technology, are primarily manufactured in China.
Meanwhile, Asics Football Boots, featuring the exceptional HG10MM technology, are produced across several Asian countries, including China, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia.
What Role Does Vietnam Play in Asics' Production?
Vietnam plays a crucial role in Asics' global production network. The country has emerged as a key manufacturing hub for the brand, especially with a major production unit located in Ho Chi Minh City.
Operated by Asics Sourcing Company Ltd, the Vietnamese manufacturing site has been instrumental in designing and producing several popular athletic shoe models. This includes renowned models such as the Gel-Kayano 27, GEL-Nimbus 25 Platinum, GELHOOP V14, LYTERACER 4, GELBURST 27, and FUJI LITE 3.
These products, among others manufactured in Vietnam, demonstrate Asics' continued commitment to maintaining high-quality standards and innovative design in their footwear, regardless of where they are produced.
Does Asics Manufacture Shoes in Cambodia?
Yes, Asics does manufacture shoes in Cambodia. The company has a factory situated in the Kong Pisey District, Kampong Speu, which plays a vital role in Asics' global production line.
This facility contributes significantly to the manufacture of various Asics shoe models, complementing other production sites located in Japan, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
It's noteworthy that there was a temporary halt in the Cambodian factory's operations following an incident in 2013. However, since then, the factory has resumed its operations and continues to contribute to Asics' shoe production.
Are Asics Shoes Made in the USA?
Yes, Asics does produce some of their shoes in the USA, aligning with their commitment to catering to the American market.
The company maintains a strong presence in the United States, operating from its corporate office in Irvine, California, which was originally known as Asics Sports of America Inc and later renamed Asics Tiger Corporation.
While the bulk of Asics' manufacturing primarily occurs in Asia, including countries like Japan, China, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, some design and production processes do take place on American soil.
This diversified manufacturing strategy allows Asics to effectively respond to the unique needs and preferences of various markets, including the USA.
Does Asics Have a Presence in Europe?
Yes, ASICS does have a strong presence in Europe. ASICS, a Japanese multinational corporation known for its athletic equipment, has numerous retail stores spread across various countries in Europe, including the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and more.
Their expansive 64,500-square-foot corporate office in Hoofddorp, Netherlands, stands as a testament to the brand's growth in Europe over the past seven decades. This clearly indicates that ASICS has successfully penetrated the European market.
The company's products are also widely available through many European sports retailers, both online and in physical brick-and-mortar stores. Furthermore, ASICS maintains its own European e-commerce platforms, catering to customers in various countries.
Additionally, ASICS sponsors various sports events and teams in Europe, demonstrating their active role in the European sports and lifestyle markets.
Who Owns Asics?
Asics is a public company, not owned by any other major brand, contrary to some beliefs. It was established in Japan in 1949 by Mr. Kihachiro Onitsuka.
Although Nike did distribute Asics (formerly known as Onitsuka Tiger) running shoes in the 1960s, the two brands have since grown independently.
Asics stands for "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano," which translates from Latin to "A Sound Mind in a Sound Body." This philosophy is the guiding principle of the company and is embedded in every product it designs.
The brand's history begins shortly after World War II, when Mr. Onitsuka recognized the role of sports in bringing hope to a war-torn nation.
He started by making basketball shoes out of his living room in Kobe, Japan, with the intention of boosting young people's morale through athletics.
Asics' first international exposure came during the 1964 Boston Marathon, when the winner was wearing a pair of Onitsuka Tiger shoes. This helped propel the brand into the global market, and it began making its name synonymous with running.
In 1977, Onitsuka Tiger merged with two other companies, GTO and JELENK, to form ASICS Corp. Despite the name change, the brand maintained its focus on innovative, high-quality athletic shoes and apparel.
Today, Asics has multiple subsidiaries across the globe, including Asics Tiger Corporation in the USA and Jiang Su Asics Co. Ltd in China, reinforcing its position as a global footwear giant.
The company also continues to flourish under the Onitsuka banner, honoring the founder's legacy of inspiring a healthier and happier lifestyle through sporting goods.
Conclusion
Asics has successfully expanded its manufacturing capabilities worldwide while staying true to its Japanese roots.
Their strategy includes diversifying production locations across Asia, Europe, and America, enabling them to cater to various markets more effectively.
From Japan to Vietnam, from the USA to the Netherlands, Asics shoes are made globally, but the brand's commitment to quality, comfort, and innovation remains consistent.
Regardless of where Asics shoes are made, they continue to uphold their reputation for excellence in the competitive world of footwear.
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