Russell® Becomes Russell Athletic®
Russell Athletic®: Pioneering Teamwear Since 1902
Strong teams need strong apparel.
For more than 120 years, Russell Athletic® has stood for quality, innovation, and durable teamwear. From its humble beginnings in Alabama to becoming a globally recognized brand, Russell Athletic® has continuously evolved and today supports businesses, organizations, and teams with high-quality apparel for a wide range of applications.
A Brand Built on Heritage & Innovation
The story of Russell Athletic® began in 1902 when Benjamin Russell founded the Russell Manufacturing Company in Alexander City, Alabama. What started as a manufacturer of knitwear for women and children grew into one of the world's leading brands for team and sports apparel. From the very beginning, entrepreneurial spirit, a commitment to quality, and a passion for sport shaped the company’s philosophy.
A major milestone followed in the 1930s when Russell Athletic® developed the legendary cotton sweatshirt as a comfortable alternative to the wool jerseys commonly worn at the time. This innovation laid the foundation for a product category that has become an essential part of apparel worldwide. As a result, Russell Athletic® is still recognized today as the inventor of the original sweatshirt.
From Sportswear to Modern Teamwear
Over the decades, Russell Athletic® grew into one of the largest manufacturers of sports and team apparel in the United States. The iconic Eagle logo, introduced in the 1960s, became a distinctive symbol of performance, quality, and team spirit.
Today, Russell Athletic® represents more than sports. The brand offers modern teamwear solutions for businesses and organizations, providing everything needed for a professional and consistent appearance.
- T-Shirts
- Polo Shirts
- Sweatshirts
- Shirts
- Jackets
With a wide range of colors, sizes, and styles, Russell Athletic® enables teams to create customized looks that meet a variety of professional requirements.
A New Chapter: Russell Becomes Russell Athletic®
Starting in 2026, Russell Europe will operate entirely under the globally established Russell Athletic® brand. This transition creates a unified international brand identity and delivers a consistent brand experience across all regions.
While the visual identity is being modernized and new logos are being introduced, the core values remain unchanged: the trusted quality, excellent craftsmanship, and reliable service that customers have valued for years. Combining a rich heritage with a forward-looking approach provides a strong foundation for the future.
Responsibility as Part of the Brand Philosophy
Russell Athletic® is committed to responsible manufacturing and transparency. A portion of its products is manufactured in company-owned facilities, supply chains are openly communicated, and the development of long-lasting apparel remains a key priority. Durable products help conserve resources by reducing the need for frequent replacement.
Russell Athletic® combines more than 120 years of experience with the needs of modern businesses and organizations. The brand stands for premium teamwear, innovative thinking, and a deep understanding of what teams need to perform at their best. With the transition to Russell Athletic® in Europe, a new chapter begins, bringing together global brand strength, proven quality, and dependable service.