The Japanese competitor of Nike is ASICS, a company founded in 1949 that specializes in footwear and sports equipment. ASICS stands for 'Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, ' which is Latin for 'A Sound Mind in a Sound Body.' The company has become a major player in the global sports industry, with its products being sold in over 120 countries. ASICS has been a major competitor to Nike, offering a wide range of running shoes, apparel, and accessories.