Under Armour
Under Armour is an American sportswear brand specializing in performance apparel, footwear, and accessories. Its aesthetic emphasizes technical utility and athletic functionality. The brand represents a subculture of competitive sports and physical training, prioritizing an ethos of endurance, moisture management, and high-intensity performance.
Fashion History
Kevin Plank founded Under Armour in 1996, operating initially from his grandmother’s basement in Washington, D.C. The brand gained significance by introducing synthetic, moisture-wicking base layers designed to keep athletes dry. This innovation challenged the dominance of cotton in athletic wear. In fashion history, Under Armour played a pivotal role in the mainstream adoption of compression garments and technical textiles, influencing the development of the modern performance apparel market.
