Champion was founded in 1919 by brothers William and Abraham Feinbloom under its original name, "Knickerbocker Knitting Company," in Rochester, New York. Initially, the brand entered the retail market by producing uniforms and sportswear for college teams.
In the early 1930s, Champion expanded its product range to include woolen training sweaters for athletes. During this period, they formed an agreement with the University of Michigan to produce team sports uniforms and training apparel.
In the 1950s, Champion developed the "Reverse Weave" sweater, a landmark design in streetwear culture. This design was created by weaving the fabric horizontally rather than vertically to reduce shrinkage during washing and wear. This innovation was highly appreciated by athletes, becoming a favorite.
In 1956, the iconic "C" logo, synonymous with the Champion brand, first appeared and was placed on the left sleeve of every upper garment. This logo and its positioning became synonymous with the Champion brand.
To reach a wider consumer base, the company rebranded as "Champion Products Inc." in the early 1960s. During this time, while continuing to produce sportswear for American colleges, the 1970s marked a true milestone for Champion. The brand began supplying official uniforms for major sports leagues such as the NBA and NFL, making its products widely recognized and preferred.
In the 1980s, Champion became a popular brand in athletic wear, with its logo design becoming a fashion symbol among young people. In the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Champion became the official sponsor of the United States basketball team, the "Dream Team," solidifying its status as a globally recognized brand.
In the 2000s, as the internet became more widespread, Champion focused on online sales and continued to grow as a global brand. During this period, the brand emphasized quality and durability in its marketing efforts.
The 2010s were particularly significant for Champion in the music and street fashion scenes. Champion regained popularity with hip-hop culture and street fashion, re-releasing its retro products and positioning itself as a "vintage" brand among new-generation consumers.
2020s: As sustainability and environmental awareness grew, Champion began incorporating more eco-friendly materials into its products. Furthermore, with its expanding product range, the brand continues to offer innovative solutions for various sports and everyday wear.
Champion has remained a pioneer in sportswear since its inception, continuing to be recognized for its quality and innovative designs. The company's long-standing efforts to meet the needs of athletes and sports enthusiasts, as well as shape fashion trends, can be seen as the key to its ongoing success in the industry.
You too can join this unique history by accessing Champion's bold clothing and footwear collections with UP and own essential pieces of street fashion.