Mizuno
Osaka sporting-goods house founded in 1906. 'JASPO' size codes and Japan or USA manufacture mark its earlier athletic wear.
- Origin
- Japan
- Founded
- 1906
- Category
- Athletic & Streetwear
- Documented eras
- 4
How Mizuno labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
'JASPO' Bold-Lettering Tags
Bold lettering with simple designs, tags often carrying 'JASPO' size indicators and the Mizuno logo with minimal extra detail, made in Japan or the USA.
- Bold lettering with simple designs.
- Tags often include “JASPO” size indicators.
- Presence of the Mizuno logo with minimal additional text or imagery.
- Tags might have been manufactured in Japan or the USA.
How to spot it
'JASPO' size codes, Japan or USA make.
Value signal
Strong; 80s Japan-made Mizuno is a sought era.
1990–1999
'World of Sports' Tags
More colour and design elements, the Mizuno logo prominent, some carrying 'The World of Sports', in varied tag sizes and materials.
- Introduction of more color and design elements.
- Tags often feature the Mizuno logo prominently.
- Inclusion of additional branding elements like “The World of Sports.”
- Variety in tag sizes and materials, reflecting the expanding product range.
How to spot it
The Mizuno logo, sometimes 'The World of Sports'.
Value signal
Solid 90s vintage; value tracks the garment.
2000–2009
Performance-Text Tags
More diverse designs and colours, the logo with added performance text, tags noting 'Made in China' and other locations outside Japan.
- Tags become more diverse in design and color.
- Continued use of the Mizuno logo with the addition of performance-related text.
- Introduction of tags indicating “Made in China” or other manufacturing locations outside of Japan.
- Emphasis on functionality and technology, often highlighted on the tags.
How to spot it
The logo with performance text, non-Japan make.
Value signal
Common; modest resale.
2010–2019
Modern Tech-Focused Tags
Modern layouts in varied colours and materials, detailed international sizing, tags emphasising Mizuno's sportswear technology.
- Modern layouts with a variety of colors and materials.
- Detailed size indicators, sometimes with international sizing standards.
- Tags often emphasize Mizuno’s technological advancements in sportswear.
- Presence of specific product lines or collaborations highlighted on the tags.
How to spot it
Modern tags emphasising performance technology.
Value signal
Modern; priced on the piece.