A Revolutionary Face Cover for Runners
- The ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER has been designed by the ASICS Institute of Sport Science (ISS) specifically for runners with performance, comfort, and protection at the core of the design
- The face cover employs cutting-edge design features and pioneering technology that give runners space to breathe with comfort so they can perform at their best
- The face cover has been designed in direct response to major concerns about how to run safely as lockdown eases, with ongoing global research[1] by ASICS revealing that 66% globally of regular exercises avoid certain routes or spaces to maintain social distance with others
Created specifically for runners by world-renowned scientists, engineers and designers at the ASICS Institute of Sport Science (ISS), the face cover pairs cutting-edge design with innovative air vents that give runners the room to breathe comfortably, while preventing the spread of droplets. The face covers quick-drying material helps cool the air that reaches its interior.
Together the unique, innovative design and cutting-edge materials allow runners of all levels to exercise without compromising performance or protection. Tests show that the ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER significantly improves breathability and comfort[2] with runners feeling little to almost no difference from wearing no mask. Importantly, this is maintained even when running at higher speed where conventional masks inhibit performance.
Kenichi Harano, Executive Officer and Senior General Manager at the ISS said: “We know how important it is for runners to protect themselves and others when running, but also that many find face covers uncomfortable and restrictive. So, we created the ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER, uniquely designed for runners with cutting-edge technology. The innovative design gives runners room to breathe comfortably while performing at their physical peak.”
The new ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER will be available to runners globally from September, at a retail price of 40USD.
A pioneering approach to design
The ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER is not like any other sports accessory on the market. Yasuhito Hirota, President & Chief Operating Officer, ASICS, says: “When I used to run with a normal mask it was hard to breathe, but with this mask I was able to run very comfortably”. While other approaches rely solely on the breathability of materials, the ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER combines this with an innovative design that gives runners the space to breathe comfortably within the face cover. This groundbreaking approach means that runners of every level can strive for their best performance with the confidence that they are staying protected.
Scientists at the ISS have responded to the unique needs of runners with a series of technologies and design features including:
- Interior Space
The unique curved structure creates more room inside the face cover to allow for easier breathing when running.
- Strategically Placed Air Vents
Air vents innovatively placed on the face cover provide unobstructed airflow while preventing the spread of droplets.
- Quick-drying, Washable Fabric
Cutting-edge material cools the air flowing into the mouth, improving breathability and comfort. The water repellent, washable fabric makes cleaning easier.
- Comfort Fit
Specifically designed to accommodate a wide range of faces with an adjustable cord to ensure fit– helping prevent fog build-up when wearing glasses.
- Sustainable Design
Produced with approximately 31% recycled materials.
ASICS continues to listen to runners of all levels to keep them motivated and protected in a world coming out of lockdown
With the ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER, ASICS is continuing to listen to runners needs at this time. Ongoing research conducted by ASICS shows that globally, 7 in 10 (68% globally people are more driven than ever to return to their physical peak.
However, 8 in 10 (79% globally) of regular exercisers we surveyed said wearing a face cover when running is not a comfortable experience because it is hard to breathe and irritates the skin. The ASICS RUNNERS FACE COVER is designed specifically to address the need for a face cover while running that offers comfort as well as performance and protection, with 5 in 10 runners (53% globally; saying they would feel more comfortable about their safety wearing a face cover while exercising.
Yasuhito Hirota further explains: “At ASICS, listening to our runners and understanding their changing needs lies at the heart of everything we do. There are lots more we can learn from the running community as lockdown eases across the globe, and we will continue to evolve our products and services to meet their future needs.”
Get Involved
For expert advice, training plans and more information about how to run, people can follow #RunToFeel.
HELPING THE WORLD RUN
ASICS is helping the world maintain its newfound love of running through a series of initiatives aimed at helping people continue to stay safe and motivated in a world coming out of lockdown. These include:
- Allowing free access to the #RunToFeel Challenge in the ASICS Runkeeper™ app – with the August challenge being running 30kms this month.
- Offering free access to the ASICS Studio™ at-home workout app for everyone through to the end of August 2020
- Highlighting running in people’s lives by calling on them to share how they stay motivated via #RunToFeel
- Providing additional training content and guidance from ASICS FrontRunner community and athletes
About ASICS
Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, meaning ‘A Sound Mind in a Sound Body’ is an old Latin phrase from which ASICS is derived and the fundamental platform on which the brand still stands. The company was founded in 1949, more than 70 years ago by Kihachiro Onitsuka and is now a leading designer and manufacturer of running shoes, as well as, athletic and SportStyle inspired footwear, apparel, and accessories.
ASICS India currently has 49 stores in 28 key metros, Tier1 & Tier2 cities. More details can be found athttps://www.asics.com/in/en-in/store-locator
For more information, visit www.asics.com/in/en-in
