Have you ever noticed the striking resemblance between the logos of Onitsuka Tiger and ASICS? Well, that's because they come from the same company. Onitsuka Tiger is like the father of ASICS, originating in the 1940s when sports were embraced as a gift of patience in the Land of the Rising Sun. Although it later merged with other companies to form ASICS, Onitsuka Tiger retains its distinct identity.
But here's the catch - even though they have similarities, ASICS and Onitsuka Tiger are not the same. Onitsuka Tiger shoes focus on tiger design, natural leather, comfort, and Japanese details. On the other hand, ASICS offers a more modern, affordable, and diverse range of shoes, although they might not be as comfortable as Onitsuka Tigers.
If you're intrigued by the connection between these two brands, keep reading to uncover more about their unique characteristics.
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ASICS Vs. Onitsuka Tiger Features
ASICS and Onitsuka Tiger have distinct features that set them apart. Here's a summary:
Upper
ASICS is renowned for its breathable, thin, and soft synthetic fabric upper. Their uppers have a meshy surface that enhances breathability and reduces odors.
In contrast, the upper of Onitsuka Tiger shoes combines synthetic and natural leather, including cow smooth and goat smooth leather. The iconic suede Onitsuka Tiger Stripes add a stylish touch to the upper. And for the few models that feature mesh, such as Mexico 66, they are generously meshed and have a cool appearance.
Midsole
The midsole, which connects the outsole and the upper, is where both brands showcase their unique technologies. ASICS utilizes SpEVA and Solyte materials in their midsoles.
SpEVA enhances rebound by 20%, resulting in impactful steps and improved performance. Some ASICS shoes also incorporate gel cushioning in the heels and forefeet, providing effortless energy transfer and stabilization while reducing the risk of injury.
Onitsuka Tiger's midsole features lightweight EVA memory foam called AMPLIFOAM, providing exceptional cushioning with every stride. They even have holes in the midsole for air circulation, inspired by the discovery that heat causes blisters.
Outsole
The outsole is a significant feature of Onitsuka Tigers and has a unique historical connection to the brand. Inspired by an octopus sucking a salad plate, Mr. Kihachiro Onitsuka created an outsole with a suction cup-like pattern for improved grip during sports.
ASICS, on the other hand, uses ASICS High Abrasion Resistance Rubber (AHAR+), which offers excellent durability, traction, and cushioning on both wet and dry surfaces. Some ASICS shoes also feature the Dual-Stencil processed rubber lugs, enhancing traction from forefoot to midfoot.
Design
Despite their similar designs, ASICS and Onitsuka Tigers follow different philosophies. ASICS designs their shoes based on the Impact Guidance System (IGS), aiming for a holistic approach where shoe components work together to allow the body to move naturally.
On the other hand, Onitsuka Tiger focuses on providing arch support and other features that complement the foot's movement.
Price
When it comes to price, Onitsuka Tigers tend to be more expensive ($80 - $150+) compared to ASICS ($55 - $150+). This is due to the traditional handcraftsmanship employed in the manufacturing process, as well as the difference in leather materials used.
ASICS Vs. Onitsuka Tiger Size charts
Here are the size charts for both brands:
ASICS Men's Size Chart:
US UK EU CMOnitsuka Tiger Men's Size Chart:
US UK EU CMASICS Women's Size Chart:
US UK EU CMOnitsuka Tiger Women's Size Chart:
UK US EU CMASICS Japan S Vs. Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
If you compare the look of ASICS Japan S and Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66, you might find it challenging to pick the best one as they look remarkably similar. However, there are subtle differences that matter.
Firstly, the price sets them apart. ASICS Japan S is priced at $70, while Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 costs almost double at $120. Both feature the iconic tiger stripe pattern and offer a thin, comfortable, and breathable insole and upper.
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 has a perforated insole, whereas ASICS Japan S does not. Additionally, ASICS Japan S has a more breathable and meshy upper, while Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66's upper is breathable but not meshy. When it comes to arch support, Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 performs better than ASICS.
The outsole is another noticeable difference. ASICS Japan S features the suction cup sole, while Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 has a unique triangular tread pattern that provides excellent grip and stability.
Furthermore, Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 uses original leather, making it pricier, while ASICS Japan S uses synthetic leather. Lastly, ASICS Japan S is slightly heavier than Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66.
Wrapping Up
Both ASICS and Onitsuka Tiger offer exceptional shoes, each with its own strengths. ASICS provides a wide range of designs at a more affordable price point, while Onitsuka Tigers focus on comfort and arch support.
However, both brands have areas for improvement. Customers would appreciate more variety and enhanced availability of thick, detachable insoles and heel foams.
In conclusion, ASICS and Onitsuka Tiger have their unique appeal. If ASICS addresses the aforementioned concerns, they may win over some Onitsuka Tiger fans due to the more attractive price point.
