The Best Sportswear Brands:
The blending of sportswear with regular men’s clothing has been a big fashion change in the last century. Sporty clothes used to be mostly for playing sports, but now they’re part of what people wear every day, even in fancy fashion shows.
Some folks who really like traditional styles might find this change hard to accept, but ‘athleisure’ is now a big part of what modern guys wear every day. It might even be more common than wearing suits and dress shirts. The cool thing is that athleisure has become more stylish and grown up. Some new brands in the sportswear scene focus on top-notch materials and modern designs that blend looks with practicality.
In this list, we’ve gathered the best sportswear brands out there today. This includes the big, well-known brands and the newer ones that add a touch of luxury to the mix. If you’re into fashion, this list has some great options for you.
Nike: A Timeless Icon
Nike, a brand synonymous with sports, has been a powerhouse in the sportswear industry for decades. Nike’s iconic swoosh logo represents a fusion of performance and style. From running shoes to activewear, they have a product for every athlete. Nike’s commitment to innovation and quality has made it a fan favorite worldwide.
Adidas: Where Performance Meets Fashion
Adidas, a brand deeply rooted in sports culture, seamlessly blends performance with fashion. Their diverse range of athletic footwear and apparel caters to athletes of all levels. Adidas consistently pushes the boundaries of design and technology, making it a go-to brand for those who value both style and functionality.
Under Armour: Built for Athletes
Under Armour got its start on September 25, 1996, thanks to Kevin Plank, who was just 24 years old at the time. He used to play football for the University of Maryland, and he was tired of the sweat-soaked T-shirts under his jersey. However, he noticed that his compression shorts stayed dry during practice. This gave him the idea to create a T-shirt using a special fabric that can wick away moisture. After he graduated from the University of Maryland, he made the first prototype of this moisture-wicking shirt. He gave it to his friends who were playing in the NFL.
They loved it. So, he made it even better, using tiny fibers that could keep moisture away. Big brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok started making their own moisture-wicking clothes too. The brand started to get noticed when a picture of Oakland Raiders quarterback Jeff George wearing an Under Armour mock turtleneck made it to the front page of USA Today. Under Armour‘s first big sale happened when an equipment manager from Georgia Tech asked for 10 shirts. Then, they got deals with other college football teams like NC State and Arizona State. That same year, Under Armour launched new clothing lines like ColdGear, TurfGear, AllseasonGear, and StreetGear.
Puma: The Intersection of Style and Sport
Puma has a unique charm, offering sportswear that effortlessly transitions from the gym to the streets. Their sneakers and athleisure wear are known for their comfortable fit and urban style. Puma is a brand that celebrates individuality and self-expression through sportswear.
Puma SE is a big German company that makes athletic and everyday shoes, clothes, and accessories. Their main office is in Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany. Puma is the third-largest sportswear maker in the world. It all started in 1948 when a man named Rudolf Dassler created the company. Rudolf and his brother Adolf, also known as “Adi,” had a shoe company together in 1924 called Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik (‘Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory’).
But they didn’t get along, so in 1948, they decided to split up and each started their own company. That’s when Adidas and Puma were born. After the split, Rudolf first named his new company “Ruda,” which was a mix of his name, Rudolf Dassler. But later, he changed it to Puma. Puma’s first logo was a square with a leaping beast through the letter D. They registered this logo and the company name in 1948. You can recognize Puma’s shoes and clothes by their logo and a special design called the “Formstrip,” which they introduced in 1958.
Reebok: Classic Comfort
Reebok International Limited, often just called Reebok, is an American brand that makes fitness shoes and clothing. It’s now a part of Authentic Brands Group. Reebok originally started in England back in 1958. It was created as a sister company to J.W. Foster and Sons, which was a sports goods company founded in 1895 in Bolton, Lancashire.
For a long time, from 1958 to 1986, Reebok’s logo had the flag of the United Kingdom to show where it came from. In 2005, a German sports company called Adidas bought Reebok. Then, in 2021, they sold it to Authentic Brands Group, a company in the United States. Reebok’s main office is in Boston, Massachusetts, in the Seaport District.
Reebok, a classic sportswear brand, has maintained its reputation for comfortable and durable athletic gear. Known for its iconic sneakers and retro designs, Reebok appeals to both athletes and those who appreciate timeless fashion.
New Balance: Precision and Comfort
New Balance prides itself on precision engineering. Their running shoes are a favorite among serious runners, thanks to their exceptional support and comfort. New Balance has found a way to combine innovation and tradition, resulting in high-quality sportswear.
ASICS: The Runner’s Choice
ASICS is a brand dedicated to creating top-notch running gear. With a focus on running shoes, they offer features like gel cushioning and stability support, making them a favorite among long-distance runners. ASICS caters to those who are passionate about the sport of running.
Lululemon: Athleisure Revolution
Lululemon has transformed athleisure wear into a fashion statement. Their yoga pants and activewear are designed to provide comfort, style, and functionality. Lululemon is all about helping you look and feel your best, whether you’re in the studio or running errands.
Champion: Timeless Athletics
Champion is a brand with a rich history in athletic wear. Known for their classic sweatshirts and hoodies, they’ve become a symbol of timeless sportswear. Champion continues to be a favorite for those who appreciate the blend of comfort and nostalgia.
Fila: Classic Meets Trendy
Fila is another brand that has made a comeback in recent years. Their retro sneakers and athletic wear have a classic, yet trendy appeal. Fila captures the essence of streetwear and athleticism, making it a brand that resonates with many.
Wrapping It Up
In conclusion, the world of sportswear is vast and varied, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Each of the brands mentioned here brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re a professional athlete or simply someone who enjoys a good workout, choosing the right sportswear brand can enhance your experience and style.