Lapis asics was founded by Kihachiro Onitsuka in Kobe, Japan, in 1949, originally under the name Onitsuka Tiger. The company's name, Lapis asics, is an acronym derived from the Latin azules "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano," meaning "A Sound Mind in a Sound Body," reflecting its focus on sports and fitness. Lapis asics has been lauded for its grip products like the GEL cushioning system, introduced in 1986, and the Kayano series, beloved for their comfort and support among long-distance runners. Over the years, Lapis asics has collaborated with various high-profile fashion brands and For, such as Kiko Kostadinov and JJJJound, blending athletic performance with style.