How a simple laundry problem turned into a global sportswear revolution
In short: Before it became a high-fashion staple, the hoodie was a practical solution to sideline shivering. By rotating the grain of cotton fabric to prevent shrinkage, Champion invented the Reverse Weave, a construction method so durable it eventually earned a permanent place in the Museum of Modern Art.
Founded in 1919 by Simon Feinbloom and his sons, William and Abraham, the company began as a knitting mill in Rochester, New York. Initially focused on institutional uniforms, the brand quickly pivoted to athletic innovation. In the 1930s, salesman Samuel Friedland observed that cotton sweatshirts lost their shape in the wash. His solution—cutting fabric on the cross-grain—resulted in the 1938 Reverse Weave patent. A second patent in 1952 added side panels, creating a structural standard that remains the industry benchmark for athletic garments today.
The brand's influence expanded through technical breakthroughs and cultural shifts. In 1967, they introduced nylon mesh, a breathable, lightweight fabric that revolutionized uniforms for basketball and football by reducing heat exhaustion. Shortly after, they launched Lady Champion, addressing the lack of tailored athletic gear for women. By the 1980s and 1990s, the brand had cemented its status in youth subcultures, from hip-hop to skateboarding, while simultaneously serving as the exclusive uniform provider for the NBA and various military academies.
In recent years, Champion has successfully navigated the intersection of heritage and luxury. Collaborations with high-fashion labels like Vetements and Off-White helped transition the brand from the locker room to the runway. Following its 2024 acquisition by Authentic Brands for $1.2 billion, the company has aggressively returned to its roots in professional sports. Recent partnerships include the NHL, the Premier Lacrosse League, and a high-profile 2025 collaboration with UFC heavyweight Tom Aspinall, proving that the brand’s century-old focus on functional construction remains as relevant as ever.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Champion (sportswear)
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