An American heritage sportswear label known for its iconic satin jackets and pioneering the fusion of athletic apparel with popular culture.
ORIGIN
United States
PRICE TIER
mid
Founded in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1971 by David Beckerman, a former university athlete, Starter began by producing team uniforms for local high school programs. The brand achieved prominence in the 1980s and 1990s by pioneering the retail market for licensed professional sports apparel, securing deals with the MLB, NBA, NHL, and NFL. Its signature satin bomber jacket became a cultural status symbol, moving beyond the stadium to gain widespread adoption in streetwear and hip-hop circles, famously worn by artists like DJ Jazzy Jeff and featured in films such as 'Coming to America.' By placing its star logo on sleeves and the back of hats, Starter built immense brand loyalty and became synonymous with authentic fan culture.