Asics and University of Michigan Launch Sports Innovation Center — image accompanying Believe in the Run's report. Image accompanying Believe in the Run’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Asics and the University of Michigan have opened the Ann Arbor Michigan Sports Innovation Center (AMSI). Six faculty members will lead research in biomechanics, animal biology, and advanced materials.
The center aims to streamline the transition from lab research to running shoe development. Initial projects include biomechanics studies and advanced knitting techniques. Products are expected by early 2028. Read more gear coverage.
The AMSI will explore areas like decision-making algorithms and Kirigami-inspired sensors. These innovations could lead to better-fitting and more data-driven running shoes. Related: Canadian Running’s Guide to Top Winter Running Shoes for 2026.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Believe in the Run. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Asics and University of Michigan Launch Sports Innovation Center?
New lab aims to integrate sports science into running shoe development by 2028. Asics and the University of Michigan have opened the Ann Arbor Michigan Sports Innovation Center (AMSI). Six faculty members will lead research in biomechanics, animal biology, and advanced materials.
When did Runner World publish this gear brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 27, 2026. The underlying Believe in the Run report was dated October 27, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Believe in the Run. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
THE WEEKLY BRIEFING
Start the week a step ahead.
A concise edit of the running stories worth knowing, sent every Monday.
