The most iconic sports brands in the world all started as small businesses before evolving into global giants. We’ve compiled a list of the most famous sportswear brands and some fascinating facts about their origins and growth.

Nike (USA)

Founded in 1964 by student Phil Knight and his running coach Bill Bowerman, Nike began as a distributor for Japanese-made sneakers before launching its own line of footwear. Today, it’s a multinational corporation with numerous subsidiaries.

The name Nike comes from the ancient Greek goddess of victory. The pronunciation [ˈnaɪki] is correct, though the mispronounced “Nike” (without the final “ee” sound) is common in some regions.

Nike’s famous Swoosh logo, symbolizing the wing of the goddess Nike, was designed by student Carolyn Davidson for a small fee. Nearly a decade later, Phil Knight rewarded her with a gold ring featuring the logo and company shares, the ammount of which is kept secret.

Asics (Japan)

Originally founded in 1949 as Onitsuka Tiger by Kihachiro Onitsuka, the brand aimed to inspire Japanese youth in post-war times. Initially selling only in Japan, Onitsuka Tiger shoes became the first products sold by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman before they created Nike.

Asics was the first Japanese company to commercialize basketball shoes and has since introduced many innovations, such as synthetic leather, vulcanized rubber soles, ventilation systems, and interchangeable spikes.

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Adidas (Germany)

Founded by Adolf (Adi) Dassler, Adidas was initially a family business, producing specialized sports shoes. The company gained worldwide fame when Jesse Owens won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics while wearing Dassler shoes.

The brand’s signature three stripes were originally added for stability, but Adi Dassler purchased the branding rights from Finnish brand Karhu for just two bottles of whiskey and about €1,600.

In 2005, Adidas acquired its European competitor Reebok

Puma (Germany)

Founded in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler, brother of Adidas founder Adi Dassler, Puma emerged after a family rift split their original business. The two brands became fierce competitors, and the Dassler brothers never reconciled.

Puma was the first company to introduce Velcro-fastened sports shoes and later collaborated with designer Jil Sander in 1998 to launch a high-fashion sneaker collection. In 2014, singer Rihanna became Puma’s creative director, helping revitalize the brand through fashion-forward collaborations, including the Fenty x Puma line.

Reebok (the UK)

Reebok’s origins trace back to shoemaker Joseph Foster, who invented spiked running shoes in the early 1900s. Over the years, the brand became a global success.

Reebok was a pioneer in the 1980s aerobics boom, launching the Freestyle, the first sneaker designed specifically for women.

During the 1990s, Reebok gained fame for its Pump technology, famously worn by Shaquille O’Neal and Allen Iverson.

However, in 2009, Reebok faced a scandal when its EasyTone sneakers, advertised as aiding weight loss, were deemed misleading. The company had to pay $25 million in compensation.

In 2005, Adidas acquired Reebok for $3.8 billion, but later sold the brand in 2021 to Authentic Brands Group.

New Balance (USA)

Famous American sportswear brand New balance

Founded in 1906 by William J. Riley, New Balance started as a manufacturer of orthopedic footwear before expanding into sportswear. Legend has it that the brand’s name was inspired by observing chickens’ balanced stance.

Today, New Balance sponsors major sports teams and athletes, including cricketers and the Garmin-Sharp cycling team.

Deha (Italy)

Italian fashion sportswear brand Deha

For over 40 years, Deha has been producing stylish, high-quality sportswear. The brand name means “body” in ancient Indian. Known for its layered designs, complex cuts, and vibrant colors, Deha releases special themed collections every season.

Roxy (Australia)

Australian women’s sportswear company Roxy

Founded in 1990, Roxy revolutionized women’s surfwear by introducing boardshorts for female surfers, who previously had to wear men’s styles. The brand expanded into clothing, accessories, watches, and even perfumes.

Roxy has collaborated with designers, including Diane von Furstenberg (2013), and developed SmartBand bracelets in partnership with Sony.

Juicy Couture (USA)

Founded in 1994 by Pamela Skaist-Levy and Gela Nash-Taylor, Juicy Couture became famous for its velour tracksuits, a major trend in the early 2000s, worn by celebrities like Paris Hilton, Jennifer Lopez, and Britney Spears.

Juicy Couture’s cheeky and playful aesthetic set it apart from traditional sportswear brands. It also expanded into dog accessories, making stylish outfits for pets.

The brand was acquired by Authentic Brands Group in 2013, and though it faded from mainstream fashion, it has seen a revival due to Y2K nostalgia.

Fila (South Korea)

Originally an Italian company founded in 1911, Fila transitioned to South Korean ownership in 2007. It began as a fabric and underwear manufacturer before shifting to sportswear. Today, Fila is a dominant name in global sports fashion.

From humble beginnings to global success, these sportswear brands have left an undeniable mark on the industry. Whether through innovation, celebrity collaborations, or iconic branding, each of these companies has a unique story of ambition, creativity, and resilience.

Which of these brands is your favourite? Let me know in the comments!