History of Under Armour
Under Armour was founded in 1996 by Kevin Plank, a former University of Maryland football player, with the goal of creating performance-enhancing athletic apparel. Plank started the company from his grandmother’s basement, developing moisture-wicking shirts that kept athletes dry and comfortable. His first major breakthrough came when he supplied gear to college football teams, gaining attention from professional athletes and sports organizations.
Throughout the 2000s, Under Armour expanded its product line to include footwear, outerwear, and accessories, competing with major sportswear brands like Nike and Adidas. The company became known for innovation, introducing technologies like HeatGear, ColdGear, and UA HOVR cushioning. Under Armour has also sponsored top athletes and teams worldwide, reinforcing its brand presence. Today, Under Armour continues to grow as a leader in sports performance apparel, focusing on advanced materials, sustainability, and digital fitness integration.