ASICS and Michigan open first joint lab for running innovation

ASICS and the University of Michigan have opened the ASICS Michigan Sport Innovation Center (AMSI) Lab in Ann Arbor, backed by a $25 million commitment. The company’s first industry-academia innovation lab will bring ASICS scientists together with university researchers and athletes to turn work in areas such as biomechanics, materials science, robotics and design into ideas for running footwear, apparel and performance technologies. Athlete feedback will help test and refine concepts, with research expected to begin informing ASICS products around 2028. The partnership is intended to combine ASICS’ product expertise with Michigan’s multidisciplinary research strengths and create a more direct route from academic findings to products for athletes of all levels.