Reebok is a renowned brand that is known for its trendy and comfortable shoes. It is one of the most sought-after shoe brands worldwide. However, have you ever wondered when this iconic brand was founded?
The answer to this question takes us back to the year 1895 when a small family business was established in Bolton, England. Since then, Reebok shoes have come a long way, and their journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In this article, we will delve into the history of Reebok and explore how it became one of the most popular shoe brands in the world.
When Was Reebok Shoes Founded?
Reebok is a popular brand of athletic shoes that has been around for decades. If you’re a fan of the brand, you may be curious about its history and when it was first founded. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Reebok and how it became the iconic brand that it is today.
The Early Years of Reebok
Reebok was founded in 1895 in Bolton, England by Joseph William Foster. Originally called J.W. Foster and Sons, the company specialized in producing handmade athletic shoes for athletes in the surrounding area. The shoes were designed with spikes on the soles to provide better traction on the track.
Over the years, the company expanded its product line to include a wider range of athletic shoes. In 1958, two of Foster’s grandsons, Joe and Jeff Foster, renamed the company “Reebok,” which is a type of African antelope. The brothers wanted a name that was unique and easy to remember.
The Rise of Reebok in the 1980s
Reebok’s big break came in the 1980s, when the company introduced its line of aerobic shoes. Aerobics was a popular fitness trend at the time, and Reebok’s shoes were a perfect fit for the high-energy workouts. The company’s iconic Freestyle shoe, which was designed specifically for women, became a cultural phenomenon and helped cement Reebok’s place as a leading athletic shoe brand.
In addition to its success in the aerobics market, Reebok also made a name for itself in the world of professional sports. The company signed endorsement deals with high-profile athletes like Shaquille O’Neal, Allen Iverson, and Venus Williams, and became the official footwear supplier for the NFL in the 1990s.
Reebok Today
Today, Reebok is owned by Adidas and continues to produce a wide range of athletic shoes and apparel. While the brand may not be as dominant as it was in the 1980s and 90s, it remains a popular choice among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Reebok is known for its innovative designs, high-quality materials, and commitment to sustainability.
One of Reebok’s most recent initiatives is its “Cotton + Corn” line, which features shoes made from sustainable materials like corn and cotton. The company has also made a commitment to reducing its environmental impact by using recycled materials in its products and reducing waste in its manufacturing processes.
The Benefits of Reebok Shoes
If you’re in the market for a new pair of athletic shoes, Reebok is definitely worth considering. Here are some of the benefits of choosing Reebok shoes:
- Comfort: Reebok shoes are designed with comfort in mind, which is important if you’re going to be wearing them for extended periods of time.
- Support: Reebok shoes provide excellent support for your feet and ankles, which can help prevent injuries.
- Style: Reebok offers a wide range of styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find a pair that suits your taste.
- Innovation: Reebok is constantly experimenting with new materials and technologies to improve its products.
Reebok vs. Other Athletic Shoe Brands
Of course, Reebok isn’t the only athletic shoe brand out there. Here’s how it stacks up against some of its competitors:
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Adidas | High-quality materials, innovative designs, wide range of styles | Can be expensive, not as comfortable as some other brands |
| Nike | Iconic brand, extensive product line, innovative technologies | Expensive, not always the most comfortable option |
| New Balance | Comfortable, supportive, great for people with foot problems | Not as stylish as some other brands, limited product line |
Conclusion
Reebok has come a long way since its humble beginnings in Bolton, England over a century ago. Today, the brand is known for its high-quality athletic shoes and commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re a professional athlete or just someone who enjoys working out, Reebok is definitely a brand worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about the founding of Reebok Shoes.
When was Reebok Shoes founded?
Reebok Shoes was founded in 1958 by two brothers, Joe and Jeff Foster, in Bolton, England. At first, they made running shoes that were sold under the name “Mercury Sports.” However, in 1960, they changed the name of the company to “Reebok,” which is a type of African antelope that is known for its speed and agility.
Today, Reebok is a global brand that makes athletic shoes, clothing, and accessories for people of all ages and abilities. The company is known for its innovative designs, high-quality products, and commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
What inspired the founders to start Reebok Shoes?
Joe and Jeff Foster were both runners who wanted to create shoes that would help athletes perform better. They started by making running shoes with spikes that could grip the track, but soon expanded their product line to include shoes for other sports like tennis, basketball, and soccer.
Over the years, Reebok has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of athletic footwear. In the 1980s, it introduced the first athletic shoe designed specifically for women, and in the 1990s, it launched the Pump technology, which allowed wearers to customize the fit of their shoes with the push of a button.
What are some of Reebok’s most popular shoe models?
Reebok has produced many iconic shoe designs over the years, including the Classic Leather, the Club C, and the Aztrek. The Classic Leather, first introduced in 1983, is a simple yet stylish sneaker that has remained popular for decades. The Club C, which was originally designed for tennis players in the 1980s, has a clean, minimalist look that has made it a favorite of sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts. The Aztrek, meanwhile, is a chunky, retro-inspired shoe that has become popular with fans of the “dad shoe” trend.
In recent years, Reebok has also collaborated with celebrities and designers to create limited-edition shoe collections, such as the Cardi B Collection and the Pyer Moss Collection.
Where can I buy Reebok Shoes?
Reebok Shoes are available for purchase at a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. You can buy them directly from the Reebok website, as well as from other online retailers like Amazon and Zappos. In addition, many sporting goods stores and department stores carry Reebok Shoes, including Foot Locker, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Macy’s.
If you’re looking for a specific style or color of Reebok Shoe, it’s a good idea to check multiple retailers to find the best selection and prices. You can also sign up for Reebok’s email newsletter to stay up-to-date on new releases and promotions.
Does Reebok offer any sustainability initiatives?
Yes, Reebok is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. For example, the company has developed a plant-based shoe material called “Cotton + Corn” that is made from sustainable ingredients like corn and castor beans. Reebok has also launched a “Buy One, Get One Tree” program, in which it plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold.
In addition, Reebok has set ambitious goals for reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, and has implemented programs to improve working conditions and labor standards in its supply chain. By making sustainability a priority, Reebok is working to create a better future for both people and the planet.
The Decline of Reebok…What Happened?
In conclusion, the founding of Reebok Shoes is a story of determination, innovation, and passion. The brand was born in a small English village in 1958, when two brothers decided to create a running shoe that was both comfortable and stylish. Over the years, Reebok has grown into a global leader in sports and fitness, with a wide range of products and partnerships with some of the world’s top athletes.
Today, Reebok is more than just a shoe company. It’s a brand that represents a lifestyle of health and wellness, encouraging people to reach their full potential through fitness and active living. From the gym to the streets, Reebok shoes are a symbol of style, performance, and innovation.
In the end, the story of Reebok Shoes is one of perseverance and dedication. The brand has faced many challenges over the years, but it has always stayed true to its core values of quality, style, and innovation. As we look to the future, we can expect to see Reebok continue to push the boundaries of sports and fitness, inspiring people around the world to lead active and healthy lives.
