Vintage Identification: Champion

History of Champion

Champion Sportswear is a renowned American brand that has played a significant role in the evolution of athletic apparel. Founded in 1919, Champion has established itself as a pioneer and innovator in the sports industry, consistently producing high-quality garments that cater to athletes and sports enthusiasts.

Champion Sportswear was originally established in Rochester, New York, by the Feinbloom brothers, Abe and Bill. The brothers initially focused on creating sweatshirts for university sports teams, utilizing their expertise in manufacturing undergarments. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship quickly gained recognition, and Champion began to expand its product line.

In the 1930s, Champion introduced the first-ever hooded sweatshirt, a revolutionary design that soon became an iconic garment in both athletic and casual settings. The hooded sweatshirt, or hoodie, was a practical and comfortable option for athletes to wear during training sessions or outdoor activities, and it gained popularity among the general public as well.

Over the following decades, Champion Sportswear continued to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of athletes. The brand played a crucial role in outfitting sports teams across various disciplines, including basketball, football, and track and field. Champion's commitment to producing durable and functional athletic apparel made it a trusted choice among athletes, coaches, and sports organizations.

In the 1980s, Champion became particularly popular in the hip-hop and streetwear scenes. Influential figures such as LL Cool J and Run-DMC embraced Champion's clothing, bringing it into the mainstream. The iconic "C" logo, which adorned many of Champion's products, became a symbol of style and authenticity.

In the 1990s, Champion Sportswear expanded its product range to include women's apparel, capitalizing on the growing demand for women's sportswear. The brand's commitment to inclusivity and diversity further enhanced its reputation and customer base.

Today, Champion Sportswear continues to thrive as a prominent sportswear brand, offering a wide range of apparel and accessories. The company remains committed to quality, comfort, and performance, ensuring that athletes and individuals alike can rely on their products for both athletic pursuits and everyday wear.

With a rich history spanning over a century, Champion Sportswear has left an indelible mark on the world of sports fashion. Its enduring legacy and commitment to innovation have solidified its position as a trusted and influential brand in the global sportswear market.

 

How to identify vintage Champion

As always the best way to identify vintage Champion is by the tags on their garments. They have a similar color scheme to the aforementioned Russell tags, but with their own unique spin. Keep in mind, these production dates are estimates. It is impossible for us to identify the exact year of production for most pieces. It is time to dive into another rendition of vintage identification with: Champion.

 

*Sonny De Cru does not claim ownership of any images unless otherwise stated*

 

First & Foremost: The Reverse Weave Champion Tags

Era: Ranges
Info:
- The most popular Champion item to date.
- The Champion Reverse Weave is an iconic garment that revolutionized athletic apparel.
- Features unique cross-grain construction, it resists shrinkage and maintains its shape even after multiple washes.
- The heavyweight fabric provides durability and insulation, while the soft interior ensures comfort.
- Showcases the renowned "C" logo, the Reverse Weave represents Champion's heritage and remains a timeless symbol of quality and style in sportswear.
vintage champion reverse weave tags

The 40s to 50s Champion Tags

Era: 1940s to 1950s
Info: 40s
- Known as ‘Champion Knitwear’ during this time period
- Original logo features a runner running across a finish line
- Different font for the word ‘Champion’
- Made in Rochester, NY
Info: 50s
- Runner emblem was updated to a more vibrant blue color
- In some tags replaced ‘knitwear’ with ‘processed sportswear’
- Tags began to feature the ‘h’ intertwined in the ‘C’ in Champion
vintage 40s/50s champion tags

The 1960s Champion Tags

Era: 1960s

Info:

- Removal of the runner man on the side, replaced in some tags inside the ‘C’ of Champion

- Text remained blocky as the 50s was

- Several variations of tags

vintage 60s champion tags

The 1970s Champion Tags

Era: 1970s

Info:

- The beginning of the most known Champion logo & font (C & script)

- Font was accompanied with rectangular background

- No longer included measurements, only size

vintage 70s champion tags

The 1980s Champion Tags

Era: 1980s

Info:

- Blue script for champion logo

- Introduced other materials than just cotton

- Thin tag

vintage 80s champion tags

The 1990s Champion Tags

Era: 1990s

Info:

- Several design variations

- Early 90s includes patched tag to garment itself

- Mid-Late 90s includes two-tone blue & white tag with classic logo

- Still made in USA

vintage 90s champion tags

The 2000s Champion Tags

Era: 2000s

Info:

- The tagline of ‘Authentic Athletic Apparel’ was introduced

- The two-tone tag is still offered, but made in El Salvador or Mexico (some still made in USA)

- Still features classic script & logo

- As 00s went on the plain white tag began (still made in USA in some)

- Thin tag as 00s progressed

- Several tag variations

vintage champion tags

Overview

vintage champion reverse weave tag guide

vintage champion tag guide

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