Reebok, the iconic sports and athletic footwear company, has been around for decades. It’s hard to imagine a world without Reebok sneakers on the feet of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. But have you ever wondered when Reebok was founded and how it became the powerhouse brand it is today?
Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating history of Reebok, from its humble beginnings in the United Kingdom to its global success in the world of sports and fashion. So, let’s lace up our sneakers and take a walk down memory lane to discover the story of Reebok.
Reebok was founded in 1958 in Bolton, England by Joe and Jeff Foster. Originally called J.W. Foster and Sons, the company’s name was changed to Reebok in 1960. The name comes from the Afrikaans word for a type of African antelope. Reebok is now a subsidiary of Adidas after being acquired in 2005.
When Reebok Was Founded?
Reebok, the global athletic footwear and apparel company, was founded in 1958 in Bolton, England. Originally called J.W. Foster and Sons, the company was started by Joseph William Foster, a British shoemaker who had a passion for creating innovative athletic footwear. Foster designed some of the earliest spiked running shoes, which were used by athletes in the 1924 Summer Olympics.
The Early Years of Reebok
In 1958, Foster decided to form his own company, which he named after the African gazelle. The first Reebok running shoes were made in 1958, and the company quickly gained a reputation for quality and innovation. By the 1970s, Reebok had expanded into the United States, and its running shoes became popular among American athletes.
Reebok’s success continued through the 1980s and 1990s, as the company diversified into other sports and athletic activities. It introduced the first aerobic shoe in 1982, which was designed specifically for women. The company also became known for its innovative marketing campaigns, which included endorsements from high-profile athletes and celebrities.
The Reebok Brand Today
Today, Reebok is owned by Adidas, and is still a leading brand in the athletic footwear and apparel industry. The company offers a wide range of products, including running shoes, training shoes, crossfit shoes, and apparel for men and women. Reebok is also known for its collaborations with high-profile designers and celebrities, such as Victoria Beckham and Kendrick Lamar.
Reebok has also continued to innovate, with products such as the Liquid Floatride Run shoe, which uses a unique liquid foam technology for better cushioning and support. The company has also placed a greater emphasis on sustainability, with initiatives such as its Cotton + Corn program, which uses plant-based materials in its shoes.
Benefits of Reebok Products
Reebok’s products are known for their high quality and innovative design. The company’s running shoes, for example, are designed to provide maximum comfort and support, with features such as breathable mesh uppers and responsive cushioning. Reebok’s training shoes are also highly regarded, with features such as flexible soles and durable materials.
In addition to their performance benefits, Reebok’s products are also stylish and fashionable. The company offers a wide range of colors and designs, so customers can find products that fit their personal style. Reebok’s collaborations with high-profile designers and celebrities have also helped to raise the brand’s profile and appeal to a wider audience.
Reebok vs Competitors
Reebok faces tough competition in the athletic footwear and apparel industry, from brands such as Nike and Under Armour. However, Reebok has several advantages that help it to stand out from the competition. One of these is the company’s focus on innovation, with products such as the Liquid Floatride Run shoe and the Cotton + Corn program.
Reebok also has a strong reputation for quality and durability. The company’s products are known for their long-lasting performance, which helps to build customer loyalty and trust. Reebok’s collaborations with high-profile designers and celebrities also help to differentiate the brand from its competitors, and attract customers who are looking for unique and stylish products.
Conclusion
Reebok has come a long way since its founding in 1958. From its early days as a British shoemaker to its current status as a global athletic brand, Reebok has remained committed to innovation, quality, and style. With products that deliver on performance and fashion, Reebok is sure to remain a leading brand in the athletic footwear and apparel industry for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the founding of Reebok.
When was Reebok founded?
Reebok was founded in 1958 in Bolton, England by two brothers, Joe and Jeff Foster. The company’s initial focus was producing spiked running shoes for athletes, but they eventually expanded into other sports and casual footwear.
In the 1980s, Reebok gained popularity in the United States after signing endorsement deals with high-profile athletes like basketball player Shaquille O’Neal and tennis player Venus Williams. The company’s success continued into the 1990s with the release of the iconic Reebok Pump shoe.
Who founded Reebok?
Reebok was founded by Joe and Jeff Foster in 1958. The brothers were the grandsons of a shoemaker and had a passion for athletics. They initially named their company “J.W. Foster and Sons” after their grandfather, but later changed it to Reebok, a name inspired by an African gazelle.
The Fosters’ vision was to create high-quality athletic footwear that could improve performance and reduce injuries. Today, Reebok is owned by Adidas and continues to produce footwear and apparel for a variety of sports and activities.
What was the inspiration behind the name “Reebok”?
The name “Reebok” was inspired by an African gazelle. The founders of the company, Joe and Jeff Foster, wanted a name that would convey speed, agility, and grace, all traits that they believed their athletic footwear could enhance.
The name “Reebok” also has a unique spelling, with two “e’s” instead of the traditional spelling of “rebook.” This was a deliberate choice by the Fosters to make the name more distinctive and memorable.
What was Reebok’s first product?
Reebok’s first product was a spiked running shoe called the “Classic.” The shoe was designed by founder Joe Foster and featured hand-crafted spikes for superior traction on the track.
The Classic was popular with athletes and helped establish Reebok as a leading producer of athletic footwear. Today, Reebok offers a wide range of shoes for various sports and activities, as well as casual footwear and apparel.
When did Reebok become popular in the United States?
Reebok became popular in the United States in the 1980s after signing endorsement deals with high-profile athletes like basketball player Shaquille O’Neal and tennis player Venus Williams. The company’s success continued into the 1990s with the release of the iconic Reebok Pump shoe.
The Reebok Pump was a groundbreaking shoe that allowed wearers to customize the fit by inflating the shoe with a small pump. The shoe was popular with athletes and non-athletes alike and helped establish Reebok as a major player in the athletic footwear market.
In conclusion, the founding of Reebok was a pivotal moment in the world of sports and fitness. The brand’s innovative products and commitment to quality have made it a household name and a go-to choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Looking back at the company’s early days, it’s clear that Reebok’s founders had a vision for creating something truly special. Their dedication to innovation and excellence laid the foundation for the brand’s continued success and popularity.
Today, Reebok remains a leading force in the athletic footwear and apparel industry, constantly pushing the boundaries with new designs and technologies. Whether you’re a professional athlete or just looking to stay active, Reebok has something to offer everyone. So next time you lace up a pair of Reebok sneakers, remember the brand’s rich history and the passion that started it all.
