Mizuno is a Japanese sporting goods manufacturer that has been dedicated to producing quality sportswear and equipment for over 100 years. Following its brand slogan “Reach Beyond”, the label has made it its task to create innovations through the further development of sporting goods and “to support every athlete on their journey through the world of sport”, according to the brand on the official website.
origins
The journey of the label began in 1906 when the two brothers Rihachi and Rizo Mizuno founded the company MIZUNO Brothers Ltd. established in Osaka, Japan. Inspired by the baseball culture of the United States, Rihachi Mizuno wanted to spread the sport to Japan and started manufacturing baseball apparel in 1907. Baseball shoes, gloves and baseballs were quickly added over the next few years. In 1938, Mizuno made its first shoes with cleats and spikes. 10 years later, a scientific laboratory for technology development was also founded, which still exists today as a separate department.
evolution
During the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s Mizuno released several performance shoes like the Runbird Athletics, the Morelia football boot and the Wave Rider which became instant modern classics. The Runbird was released for the first time in 1981 and was used as the brand’s logo from then on. Many Mizuno shoes feature the Wave Plate, a technology that provides a stable, comfortable ride and dynamic cushioning. The highly developed technology is now considered a trademark of the label. In July 2020, the brand also introduced its latest footwear innovation, Mizuno Enerzy. Mizuno Enerzy is designed to improve performance and offers high energy return.
Over the years, the label has also attracted many legendary athletes as brand ambassadors, including Olympic champion Carl Luis and soccer star Sergio Ramos.
Current
Mizuno sells men’s and women’s athletic apparel, athletic shoes and equipment for everything from running to soccer, tennis to golf. Today, the manufacturer’s products are sold worldwide. The brand has two flagship stores in Osaka and Tokyo.
Since 2021, Mizuno has increased its commitment to sustainability and protecting the planet by steadily expanding its efforts. In terms of environmental protection, the Japanese company has committed itself to be CO2-neutral by 2050.