Arsenal star Takehiro Tomiyasu visits the ASICS Institute of Sport Science to help with development of new boots

Takehiro Tomiyasu has been wearing ASICS' boots since signing an advisory contract with the company in January, 2023.

On a summer's day after the end of last season, the Arsenal defender visited the ASICS Institute of Sport Science located in Kobe, Japan, to find out more about his footwear.

In the institute, research and development has been carried out based on 'human-centric science', with the company's vision to 'create quality lifestyle through intelligent sport technology' leading the way.

Research on human characteristics, including the deformation and load of the body during exercise, has helped figure out the necessary functions for ASICS' products, while there has also been development of materials such as resins, rubber and sponge used in shoe soles and other parts.

On top of this, the institute places emphasis on quality control, including product durability. Everything is concentrated here.

ASICS
Research and development at the core
Speaking about ASICS boots that were created through the company's intensive research and development programme, Tomiyasu says: "I once wore them when I was in high school. I originally had the impression that they were high-quality boots. They also have a good fit, I think they are nice."
For footballers, boots are almost a part of their body. In order to further refine his play in the Premier League - the world's most intense competition - Tomiyasu helped with the development of new boots by being measured.
First, the Japan star's body measurements were taken to see his body balance and more. Then, markers were attached to his entire body, and data obtained by him running and kicking the ball. That data was immediately transferred and quickly displayed as 3D images in real-time.

ASICS
No complaints
Tomiyasu said: "I tried a measurement for the first time, where they put markers all over my body to see how I use my body and where the weight and strain are. I was able to see the other side of the quality of ASICS boots, which they make after researching even the smallest details."
Since similar measurements are taken at Arsenal, there were no surprises, but Tomiyasu was impressed by the lengths ASICS go to. "They are very thorough about the data and communication with the players, so I was able to trust them even more, and it was a really good time," he added.
The versatile defender was involved in discussions with the spike developers based on the measurement data.
He revealed: "I have no complaints about the boots I'm wearing now. Even so, ASICS wants to make something better. So, I just had to make some requests, like if I really had to say something... but I think we had a really good discussion."
ASICS
ASICS' new boots
On the day of the measurement, Tomiyasu kicked the ball wearing ASICS' new DS Light X-Fly Pro 2 boots. This series is designed to enhance running performance so that players can improve their sprinting ability.
He said: "As well as fit on the heels and the tips of the feet, the moment I put them on, I feel a strong sense of them just sliding in and fitting perfectly.
"The fit is still really good as ever. These boots were made based on the data collected by ASICS, so I hope I can perform well on the pitch wearing these boots."
With the trust built during his visit to the institute as his driving force, Tomiyasu looks set to show off his speed this season while wearing the DS Light X-Fly Pro 2 boots.

Research and development at the core

No complaints

ASICS' new boots