By Spiddy Ng. Last updated 27 Oct 2026.
Are ASICS cheaper in Japan than in the US? We compare official prices in Japan with the US, and give pointers for the UK, Singapore and the Philippines.
ASICS is a Japanese brand (founded in Kobe; see ASICS on Wikipedia), so many runners hope to find a better deal in Japan. Here is what the official prices show as of 27 Oct 2026.
Is ASICS Cheaper In Japan?
Yes, at official prices. The current GEL-KAYANO 33 costs ¥22,000 (including 10% tax) on ASICS Japan, which is about $139.73. The same shoe is $170 on ASICS US before sales tax, so it is about 18% cheaper in Japan before any tax refund. Sale prices on older models can widen the gap further.
Related: Is Adidas Cheaper In Japan?
Current prices: Japan vs US (checked 27 Oct 2026)
| Item | Japan (JPY, incl. 10% tax) | Japan price in USD | US (USD, before sales tax) | Verdict | Source |
| ASICS GEL-KAYANO 33 (current model) | ¥22,000 | $139.73 | $170.00 | Cheaper in Japan (about 18% less) | ASICS JP / ASICS US |
| ASICS GEL-KAYANO 32 (previous model) | ¥22,000 launch price | $139.73 | $165.00 list (some colors on sale at $124.95) | Cheaper in Japan at list price (about 15% less) | ASICS JP press release / ASICS US |
The GEL-KAYANO 32 is now the previous model. In Japan, retailers are clearing it: we saw it at ¥14,900 (about $94.64) at Alpen on 27 Oct 2026. Stock, sizes and colors vary.
How we checked: official brand sites (ASICS Japan, ASICS US, ASICS press releases) on 27 Oct 2026 JST. Exchange rate: 1 USD = ¥157.45, worked out from the ECB euro reference rates for 26 Oct 2026 (EUR 1 = USD 1.1188 = JPY 176.15). Prices change often, so check the brand site before you buy.
Tax-free shopping: Japanese prices include 10% consumption tax. Visitors can get it back on eligible goods when they spend ¥5,000 or more (before tax) in one store on one day. For purchases made on or after 1 November 2026, Japan uses a refund system. You pay the tax-inclusive price, then within 90 days and before you check in your bags, you confirm the goods at a customs kiosk when you leave Japan to get the tax back. Sources: JNTO: Japan's Tax Exemption, Japan Customs and the Japan Tourism Agency tax-free guide.
Is ASICS Cheaper In Japan or the US?
Yes, for the models we checked. The GEL-KAYANO 33 is about 18% cheaper at ASICS Japan's official price than at ASICS US, and you may also get the 10% tax back as a visitor.
Why Japan can work out cheaper:
- Home-market pricing: ASICS sets its own Japanese retail prices. With the yen near ¥157 to the dollar, those prices look low in USD.
- Sales and promotions: Japanese sports chains (for example Alpen and Super Sports Xebio) regularly discount previous-season models.
- Outlet stores: Japan has many outlet malls with ASICS outlet stores selling past-season shoes at lower prices; check the ASICS Japan site for the current store list.
Watch out for sizing (Japan labels shoes in cm), and remember that US sales can also beat the Japanese list price on older colors.
Is It Cheaper to Get ASICS in Japan or the UK?
Probably, but we have not checked UK prices for this update. For reference, ASICS announced the GEL-KAYANO 33 at €200 in Europe, compared with about $139.73 (¥22,000) in Japan. Compare the UK price on the official ASICS UK site before you travel.
What to Consider Before Buying ASICS in Japan
- Check that your size is in stock. Popular widths sell out first.
- Japanese list prices include tax. Budget for the refund process on departure (from 1 Nov 2026).
- If you live abroad, warranty and returns are easier when you buy at home.
Is ASICS Cheaper in Japan Or Singapore?
We have not checked Singapore prices for this update. At the 26 Oct 2026 ECB rates, 1 SGD = about ¥122.95, so the Japanese price of ¥22,000 is about S$179. If ASICS Singapore charges more than that, Japan is cheaper.
Is ASICS Cheaper in Japan than in the Philippines?
We have not checked Philippine prices for this update. Imported shoes often carry extra duties and distribution costs, so compare the local price with ¥22,000 (about $139.73) before you buy.
Why Is ASICS Cheaper in Japan?
Home-market pricing. ASICS prices each market separately. The yen's weakness against the dollar makes Japanese list prices look low in USD.
Import costs elsewhere. Duties, shipping and distributor margins are added in other markets and are passed on to shoppers.
Competitive retail. Japan has many sporting-goods chains, and they discount previous-season models aggressively.
Related: Is it cheaper in Japan? Our brand-by-brand guide
Conclusion
At official prices on 27 Oct 2026, ASICS running shoes are cheaper in Japan than in the US: the GEL-KAYANO 33 is ¥22,000 (about $139.73) vs $170. For eligible purchases you can also claim back the 10% consumption tax when you leave Japan. Compare your local price, check stock in your size, and allow time at the airport for the tax refund.
