Mizuno Running Evokes An Oni for Osaka Marathon Collection

Mizuno might not have the presence in the U.S. that it has across Asia, but the brand continues to provide compelling cases for cross-over success. Recently, the company's Running branch unveiled a six-pair 'Onihayai Pack' inspired by Japanese mythology just in time for the Osaka Marathon.

Comprised of the unconventional Wave Rebellion Pro 3 marathon racer as well as training models like the Neo Vista and Wave Rider 28, Mizuno Running's 'Onihayai Pack' delivers an asymmetrical 'Ignition Red/Baseball Blue' ensemble across right and left shoes. The mismatched makeover is inspired by oni (鬼おに), demonic figures in Japanese folklore. A horned figurehead is embroidered on each running sneaker's heel, and represents the Blue Demon and Red Demon, the two sides every runner (and person) must confront in life. Marketing material from Mizuno promotes two running strategies alongside each oni: "Keep pace" or "Push the limits."

Sunday's Osaka Marathon will see more than 30,000 athletes arrive to the starting line to dominate the 26.2 miles course. Many of Mizuno's elite runners will lace up the Wave Rebellion Pro 3 during the race, which is in the company's backyard.

Past iterations of the brand's marquee marathon racer have also opted for bold, in-your-face color schemes that complement its untraditional design well. Other options in its running lineup will also likely appear throughout the race on Feb. 23.

Enjoy detailed shots of the Mizuno's entire 'Onihayai Pack' ahead. A stateside MizunoUSA.com launch could take place soon, but it's possible the collection will only release overseas given the brand's larger presence outside of North America. Retailers like Foot Patrol have some of the collection available now for the European crowd. And if you're in Asia, Mizuno's shops in Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and elsewhere have already begun selling items.

Away from the performance-running space, an UNDEFEATED x Nike Air Max 95 collaboration is rumored to land before the year ends.