Starter

am logos and the iconic 'S and Star' logo. Starter’s innovative marketing strategies, celebrity partnerships, and limited-edition releases helped transform sports culture into fan culture and then into pop culture. The brand’s influence extended beyond sports, becoming a fashion status symbol worn by athletes, celebrities, and hip-hop icons. Today, Starter continues to thrive by blending its athletic roots with contemporary fashion, offering a wide range of casual wear, accessories, and lifestyle products.

Philosophy

Starter’s philosophy centers on connecting fans with athletes and making sports culture accessible to everyone. The brand’s tagline, 'Wear what the Pros wear,' reflects its mission to bring the authenticity and excitement of professional sports to everyday consumers. Starter believes in innovation, quality, and the power of sports to inspire and unite people.

Sustainability

Environmental commitment: Starter has made efforts to incorporate sustainable practices into its manufacturing processes, including the use of recycled materials in some product lines and initiatives to reduce waste. The brand is committed to improving its environmental footprint and supporting sustainable fashion trends. Social responsibility: Starter engages in community outreach and supports various charitable initiatives, particularly those related to youth sports and education.

Founders

David Beckerman, Background: University of New Haven alumnus, former high school basketball coach, and sports industry visionary. Beckerman founded Starter in 1971 and led the company through its rise to become one of the most recognized sports apparel brands in the world. He was instrumental in securing licensing deals with major sports leagues and transforming sports apparel into a mainstream fashion phenomenon.

Background

Founded in 1971 in New Haven, Connecticut, Starter began as a small manufacturer of team uniforms for high schools and local sports leagues. The brand’s breakthrough came in 1976 when it secured its first licensing agreement with Major League Baseball, followed by deals with the NBA, NHL, and NFL. Starter’s aggressive marketing, celebrity endorsements, and limited-edition releases propelled it to the forefront of the sports apparel industry. The company went public in 1993 and expanded its reach internationally. In 2007, Starter was acquired by the Iconix Brand Group, which continues to oversee its operations and licensing agreements.

History

Starter’s history is marked by innovation and cultural impact. From its humble beginnings as a local uniform supplier, the brand grew to become a global leader in licensed sports apparel. Its iconic satin jackets and caps became status symbols in the 1980s and 1990s, worn by athletes, celebrities, and fans alike. Starter’s partnerships with major sports leagues and its expansion into lifestyle products solidified its place in pop culture. The brand’s influence continues to be felt in fashion and sports today.