Mizuno Wave Thunder Blade running shoes

Mizuno is a historic Japanese sports equipment and sportswear company that has been a fixture in the athletic industry for over a century. The brand is globally recognized for its footwear, particularly in sports like running, volleyball, and baseball. While the company began as a small shop in Osaka selling Western sundries, it transitioned into high-performance athletic gear, becoming a household name among professional and amateur athletes alike.

Mizuno products are manufactured across various Southeast Asian nations to maintain global supply chain efficiency. While high-end specialized lines are sometimes produced in Japan under the 'Made in Japan' label, most commercial athletic footwear, like the Thunder Blade series, is produced in factories in Vietnam, Indonesia, or China.

The brand remains independent and is still owned by the Mizuno Corporation. Founded by Rihachi Mizuno, the company continues to operate from its global headquarters in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. Unlike many competitors that have merged into larger conglomerates, Mizuno retains its original corporate identity and focuses on technical innovation and sporting excellence.