Asics is setting up its own research hub in the U.S. through a new partnership with the University of Michigan.
The Japanese sports brand said on Friday that it has signed a $25 million multi-year strategic research agreement with the university to establish the Asics Institute of Sport Science America. The company added that the hub will launch a joint research program with the university named the Asics-Michigan Sport Innovation Center, based in the University of Michigan’s Ann Arbor campus.
Asics said that this program will include a dedicated sports lab on campus, serving as a hub for advanced research in biomechanics, exercise physiology, AI-driven design, and bioengineering.
What’s more, this collaboration is expected to accelerate the expansion of Asics’ research domains and elevate the expertise of its research teams, the company noted. Establishing a research hub in North America will also increase touchpoints with contracted Asics athletes, enabling deeper data acquisition and a more comprehensive understanding of athlete performance.
Through this collaboration, Asics said it aims to advance its “Global Integrated Enterprise” approach by leveraging University of Michigan’s research capabilities and well-established running community to foster innovations that enhance human performance.
Domenico Grasso, president of the University of Michigan, said in a statement that the institution is “thrilled” to partner with Asics on this program and hub.
“Welcoming Asics’ inaugural U.S. research hub is a tremendous honor and affirms the strength of our faculty, students and collaborative research culture, both locally and globally,” Grasso noted.
Mitsuyuki Tominaga, president and chief operating officer of Asics Corporation, added that establishing this new research entity in the United States is a source of “great pride” for the company.
“This initiative is part of that effort, aimed at building a global research and development network and accelerating athlete-focused research,” Tominaga said. “Going forward, we will continue to make ‘what benefits athletes’ the standard for all decisions, listen sincerely to athletes’ voices, and pursue product development that contributes to their success.”
This news comes one month after Asics North America continued its run in the third quarter of 2025.
In November, Asics said that its business in the United States posted single digit growth in Q3, while Canada and Mexico each produced double-digit quarterly growth compared to the previous year, all in local currency.
Within the U.S., the wholesale channel remains the primary driver for growth across all categories – including performance running, sportstyle and core performance sports.
Asics North America also made a series of organizational appointments in October, including naming Mike Dougherty as chief operating officer. Along with Dougherty, Asics has also promoted Cat Ayers to vice president of marketing and Kelly Fatouretchi to vice president of merchandising and categories.
In July, Asics North America’s head office moved to a new home inside a former shoe factory. Located at 179 Lincoln Street in Boston, Mass., the company occupies 43,721-square-feet of the building and represents an expansion of the brand’s presence in the East Coast sneaker capital and sports hub.
