India’s sportswear market has been experiencing significant growth over the past few years, as the fitness culture is expanding rapidly across Indian society. The Indian athletic footwear market size reached $6.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to cross $9.9 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.14% from 2026 to 2034.
With over 150 sportswear companies operating in the country, choosing the right brand can be a tough task. Out of these brands, Puma and ASICS are renowned for their innovations and performance-focused products. In this blog, we will compare these two brands across technology, catalog, durability under Indian conditions, and price to help you choose the right pair for your needs.
| AI Summary
ASICS is the better choice for serious runners, long-distance training, and durability thanks to its GEL and FlyteFoam technologies. Puma is ideal for budget-conscious shoppers and athleisure fans, offering a wider catalogue, more frequent discounts, stronger fashion appeal, and a larger retail presence across India. ASICS excels in performance, while Puma delivers better value for everyday use. |
Puma vs. ASICS: A Quick Brand Background Overview
Here is a quick background comparison of Puma and ASICS that you should know:
| Field | Puma | ASICS |
| Established Year | 1948 | 1949 |
| Founders | Rudolf Dassler | Kihachiro Onitsuka |
| Headquarters | Herzogenaurach, Germany | Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan |
| Global Presence | Over 120 countries | 90 countries |
| Global Offline Stores | 800+ | 989+ |
| India Offline Stores | 447+ | 130+ |
| Products Offered | Running shoes, training shoes, and apparel | Footwear, Apparel, and Accessories |
| Entry in India | 2006 | 2010 |
| Revenue 2025 | €8.39 billion ($9.56 billion) | ¥810.9 billion ($5.3 billion) |
Puma vs. ASICS: A Quick Brand History Overview
- Puma
Puma was established in 1948 and is now one of the top global sportswear players, renowned for blending performance with fashion collaborations. Since its foundation, Puma has expanded its running and lifestyle product portfolio and invested heavily in foam and knit technologies to improve the performance of its products. These innovations and technologies helped Puma increase its popularity among performance-focused athletes and casual consumers. The company entered India in 2006, and since then, it has expanded its portfolio and improved its revenue. Today, it is the leader in the Indian sportswear market with a revenue of ₹3,300 crore in 2025.
- ASICS
ASICS has built its reputation on performance running technology, including GEL® cushioning, FlyteFoam®, and biomechanics research. Its primary focus is on performance and sport science, and it has expanded its presence into SportStyle and Onitsuka Tiger categories. The company has also accelerated its investments in India, with plans to increase the number of offline stores to 200 by the end of 2026, showcasing its commitment to serving serious runners and fitness enthusiasts.
Puma vs. ASICS: Technology and Innovation
- Puma
Puma is known for its lightweight and responsive foams, such as NITRO and engineered knit uppers for breathability. The brand’s R&D team focuses on urban performance, blending performance footwear tech with trendy lifestyle design. Its innovations are targeted to runners seeking a balance of comfort, responsiveness, and style for daily training and casual running.
- ASICS
ASICS’ innovation focuses on GEL cushioning, FlyteFoam/FF BLAST foams, and GUIDESOLE platform tech. The brand’s biomechanical approach provides stability and impact protection for long-distance running. Its shoes are designed for runners looking for durable running shoes.
Winner: ASICS for pure performance.
Puma vs. ASICS: Product Categories Offered in India
- Puma
Puma has a vast catalog in India, including products such as running shoes, trainers, casual sneakers, football boots, and apparel. Fitness enthusiasts and athletes love its NITRO running ranges and lifestyle products. All its products have trendy designs and are suitable for those who want a blend of performance running shoes and fashion sneakers.
- ASICS
ASICS focuses on offering performance running, stability trainers, and SportsStyle categories, and plans to expand its catalog as its local production grows in India. You can explore its curated running line (GEL/FF BLAST) with lifestyle silhouettes and specialized race shoes. Its product portfolio is ideal for technical runners who want specific cushion and stability options.
Winner: Puma, as it has a wider product portfolio.
Puma vs. ASICS: Design
- Puma
Puma is renowned for its uniquely designed sports and streetwear. It uses bold colours, retro silhouettes, and lifestyle collaborations. Puma balances ergonomics with fashion-forward looks, manufacturing sneakers that not only perform but are also ideal for everyday wear. You should check out its unique sneaker styles, as its design language is more fashion-led.
- ASICS
ASICS focuses primarily on function, manufacturing shoes that include natural movement and biomechanics. Its SportStyle and Onitsuka Tiger shoes lineup’s core design focus is comfort, fit, and running efficiency. ASICS shoes are best suited for those who prioritize performance running shoes over the latest trends.
Winner: Puma for stylish shoes and ASICS for performance-focused shoes.
Puma vs. ASICS: Product Durability on Indian Conditions
- Puma
Puma shoes are popular for providing balanced durability for urban Indian use, including cushioned midsoles and robust rubber outsoles. However, if you live in a city like Bengaluru, Pune, or Chennai, you can get shoes with cushioned midsoles to suit mixed pavements and moderate weather. Puma’s lifestyle shoes may wear quickly on harsh surfaces in cities like Mumbai or Delhi NCR. You can purchase its performance or reinforced outsole shoes for tougher environments to ensure long-lasting reliability.
- ASICS
ASICS focuses on long-lasting durability with structured uppers and resilient foams, making them suitable for demanding roads in Mumbai, Pune, or Bengaluru. You can also explore the brand’s GEL and FlyteFoam cushioning shoes, which can retain performance even on harder surfaces. Its lifestyle shoes can be slightly heavier compared to Puma’s models, but perform outstandingly for runners who need reliable shoes that can withstand varied road and weather conditions across India.
Winner: ASICS shoes outperform Puma shoes in long-term durability across challenging Indian conditions.
Puma vs. ASICS: Price
| Category | Puma | ASICS |
| Running shoes | ₹1,799 to ₹23,999 | ₹1,999 to ₹19,999 |
| Training Shoes | ₹2,399 to ₹12,999 | ₹2,249 to ₹21,999 |
| Lifestyle or Sneaker | ₹1,599 to ₹14,499 | ₹2,249 to ₹9,999 |
| Kids | ₹349 to ₹9,999 | ₹1,519 to ₹7,499 |
- Puma
Puma frequently prices its products competitively in India. You can also encounter exciting sales and discounts on e-commerce websites, making Puma shoes more affordable for fashion-conscious shoppers. Additionally, you can search for exclusive Puma coupon codes online and use them on the checkout page to save on your desired shoes.
- ASICS
ASICS generally targets the performance market with higher average pricing for some tech-rich running shoes; however, its standard lifestyle shoes are priced competitively. When you plan to purchase from its website, search for verified ASICS promo codes online to enjoy additional discounts.
Winner: Puma, as it runs frequent discounts.
Puma vs. ASICS: Shipping and Return Policy
- Puma
Once you place your order and it is dispatched, Puma will deliver it within 3 – 7 working days. You can enjoy free shipping on all prepaid orders. However, if you wish to return a product, you can do so within 10 days of delivery. Your refunds will be processed to your original payment method once it has been approved.
- ASICS
ASICS offers a straightforward shipping policy with free shipping for all orders. Once your order has been dispatched, it will be delivered within 5 -7 working days. The brand also offers a simple return policy; you can return the delivered product within 7 days from the delivery date.
Winner: Tie
Puma vs. ASICS: Pros and Cons
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
| Puma | – Offers various trendy lifestyle designs and collaborations.
– Provides competitive mid-market pricing and frequent discounts on performance shoes – Offers a wide product range in India |
– Some of its lifestyle shoes trade durability for looks
– Its performance tech does not offer as runner-specialised as ASICS – Its return terms can change during promotions |
| ASICS | – Offers proven running tech (GEL/FF BLAST/GUIDESOLE)
– Its shoes provide strong durability for high-mileage runners – Provides a clear performance fit and biomechanics focus |
– Has a higher average price for premium running shoes
– Offers fewer fashion-forward collaborations – Its product portfolio is less than that of Puma in India |
How Puma and ASICS Fit Indian Buyers
| Factor | Puma | ASICS |
| Best For | Casual users, gym-goers, students, athleisure buyers | Runners, marathon trainees, fitness enthusiasts |
| Foot Shape | Generally, a roomier fit | Slightly narrow fit, especially in running ranges |
| Offline Availability | Strong presence across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities | Mostly concentrated in metros and major cities |
| COD Availability | Available through major marketplaces like Myntra and Flipkart | Available through major marketplaces like Myntra and Flipkart |
| Return Convenience | Easier due to wider retail network | Good online support but fewer physical touchpoints |
Puma vs ASICS Sale Calendar and Savings Opportunities in India
| Sale Event | Typical Period | Expected Discount |
| Republic Day Sale | January | 20% to 50% |
| End of Reason Sale (EOSS) | June–July | 30% to 70% |
| Independence Day Sale | August | 20% to 60% |
| Big Billion Days | September–October | 30% to 70% |
| Diwali Sale | October–November | 25% to 60% |
| Year-End Sale | December | 20% to 60% |
What Users Are Saying on Online Forums
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Puma
Indian buyers often praise Puma for its strong value-for-money proposition, stylish designs, and frequent discounts. The brand is particularly popular for casual wear and walking shoes, while runners appreciate models like the Velocity Nitro. Some users report faster outsole wear on certain lifestyle shoes and note that product quality can vary across different collections.
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ASICS
ASICS is widely recommended for cushioning, comfort, durability, and dependable sizing. Many runners prefer its GEL-based shoes for daily training and long-distance runs, citing excellent support and foot comfort. Common concerns include higher pricing compared to competitors and limited offline availability in smaller cities, though the brand is steadily expanding across India.
Offline Store Availability in India
| City | Puma Presence | ASICS Presence |
| Delhi NCR | Extensive | Strong |
| Mumbai | Extensive | Strong |
| Bengaluru | Extensive | Strong |
| Hyderabad | Extensive | Moderate |
| Chennai | Extensive | Moderate |
| Pune | Extensive | Moderate |
| Ahmedabad | Good | Limited |
| Tier 2 Cities | Widely Available | Limited Presence |
Which Company Should You Choose: Puma vs. ASICS?
After comparing Puma and ASICS products across various categories, ASICS is a better choice for training due to its GEL and FlyteFoam technologies, as well as its runner-centric product line. However, if you are a value-conscious shopper, an athleisure fan, and an everyday commuter who wants a sporty style, Puma is the one you should pick. It has a vast product catalog, offers attractive price points, and collaboration drops. For Indian conditions, ASICS shoes are generally durable compared to Puma, while the latter is best for mixed use, style, and frequent sales.
FAQs
Is ASICS better than Puma for running?
Yes, ASICS is generally better for dedicated running. Its GEL cushioning, FlyteFoam technology, and biomechanics-driven design provide better support, impact absorption, and durability for long-distance training. Puma performs well for casual runners, but ASICS remains the preferred choice for serious running enthusiasts.
Which brand is more affordable in India, Puma or ASICS?
Puma is usually more affordable in India. The brand frequently participates in major sales and offers deeper discounts across its catalogue. Entry-level Puma shoes also tend to start at lower price points, making them attractive for budget-conscious shoppers.
Are ASICS shoes worth the price in India?
Yes, ASICS shoes are worth the price if running performance and durability are priorities. Many runners report that ASICS models maintain cushioning and support longer than average athletic shoes, helping justify the higher upfront investment.
Which is better for gym use, Puma or ASICS?
Puma is often the better choice for general gym workouts because it combines comfort, flexibility, and affordability. ASICS works well for treadmill sessions and cardio-focused training, but Puma offers a wider range of gym-friendly options.
Is Puma good for long-distance running?
Yes, Puma’s NITRO running range performs well for long-distance running. Models such as the Velocity Nitro series receive positive feedback from runners. However, ASICS still has a stronger reputation among marathon runners and dedicated training communities.
Which brand has better offers during Indian sales, Puma or ASICS?
Puma generally offers better discounts during Indian sales events such as EOSS, Big Billion Days, and festive promotions. ASICS also participates in major sales, but its discounts tend to be less aggressive and focused on selected models.
