The biggest sportswear brands

May 29, 2023

The annual revenue generated by a sportswear brand is a crucial indicator of its size. Higher revenue typically signifies a larger customer base and market share. Let’s take a look at the biggest sportswear brands according to 2022 worldwide sales.

Asics - $3.3 billion

ASICS was founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka in Kobe, Japan. Initially known as Onitsuka Co., the company later changed its name to ASICS in 1977. ASICS (an acronym for “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano,” which translates to “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body”) is a well-known sportswear and footwear brand that focuses on performance and comfort. ASICS is known for its GEL cushioning technology, which is a signature feature in many of its footwear models.

Columbia Sportswear - $3.4 billion

Columbia Sportswear was founded in 1938 by Paul Lamfrom in Portland, Oregon, United States. The brand has a rich history and has grown to become a globally recognized name in outdoor apparel. Columbia Sportswear is known for its innovative technologies that enhance performance and protect against the elements. These technologies include Omni-Tech (waterproof and breathable), Omni-Heat (thermal reflective insulation), and Omni-Shade (UPF sun protection), among others.

Reebok - $3.7 billion

Reebok was founded in 1958 in Bolton, United Kingdom, by Joe and Jeff Foster. Originally known as J.W. Foster and Sons, the company later adopted the name Reebok in 1958, inspired by the South African antelope called the rhebok. Reebok has a strong heritage in fitness and performance. The brand gained significant popularity in the 1980s with the introduction of its aerobics shoes, which were designed specifically for aerobic exercise and became a fitness trend.

New Balance - $4.5 billion

New Balance was founded in 1906 as the “New Balance Arch Support Company” in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. Originally focused on arch supports and orthopedic footwear, it eventually expanded its product line to include athletic shoes and apparel. New Balance has a strong emphasis on fit and comfort in its products. It offers a range of shoe widths to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes, which has been a defining feature of the brand.

Jordan Brand - $5.0 billion

Jordan Brand was established in 1997 when Nike and Michael Jordan created a separate division dedicated to Jordan’s line of products. Jordan Brand is synonymous with Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Jordan Brand is best known for its basketball footwear, particularly the Air Jordan line of sneakers. The Air Jordan sneakers have become iconic in sneaker culture and are highly sought after by sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans alike.

Under Armour - $5.8 billion

Under Armour was founded in 1996 by Kevin Plank, a former college football player. The company is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, United States. Under Armour primarily targets athletes and individuals involved in sports and fitness activities. Its products are designed to enhance performance, provide comfort, and support athletic endeavors. It offers a wide range of sportswear products, including athletic apparel such as shirts, pants, shorts, and compression gear.

Lululemon Athletica - $8.0 billion

Lululemon Athletica was founded in 1998 in Vancouver, Canada, by Chip Wilson. The company initially specialized in yoga apparel but has since expanded its product range to include other athletic and lifestyle clothing. Lululemon is known for its high-quality and stylish yoga and activewear garments. Its products are designed with performance, comfort, and fashion in mind, catering to the needs of athletes and individuals pursuing an active lifestyle.

Puma - $8.5 billion

Puma was founded in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler, the brother of Adidas founder Adi Dassler. The company is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany, and has a global presence.. While it competes with industry giants like Nike and Adidas, it has managed to capture a notable market share, particularly in certain regions and product categories. It caters to various sports and lifestyle activities, such as soccer, running, basketball, golf, and more.

Adidas - $24.2 billion

Adidas was founded in 1949 by Adolf Dassler, known as Adi Dassler, in Herzogenaurach, Germany. The brand’s name is derived from a combination of “Adi” (Adi Dassler’s nickname) and “Das” (short for Dassler). Adidas’s combination of performance, innovation, and style has positioned it as one of the leading sportswear brands globally. Its enduring legacy, partnerships with athletes and teams, and commitment to sustainability have contributed to its ongoing success and popularity.

Nike - $49.1 billion

Nike is one of the largest and most recognized sportswear brands globally. Founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports, it later became Nike, Inc. in 1971. Nike has built a powerful brand that is instantly recognizable worldwide. Nike is known for its innovative designs, technology integration, and endorsement collaborations with athletes and sports teams. The Nike “swoosh” logo has become an iconic symbol of the brand, representing its commitment to athleticism, performance, and innovation.