How do the athletic apparel and footwear giants fare in head-to-head matchups with Made in America alternatives?
What’s in a label? For big athletic brands, it often means overseas factories, massive ad budgets, and products made a world away from where they’re sold. But across the country, a growing lineup of American companies is proving that performance gear doesn’t need a passport to deliver.
These are serious contenders making high-quality, high-performance products right here in the United States. Let’s go head-to-head and see how they stack up.
SHOES
Nike vs. New Balance (Made in USA Series)
The Giant: Nike may be the king of kicks, but nearly all of its shoes are made overseas, often in countries with low labor standards and minimal transparency.
The Challenger: New Balance is one of the few major athletic brands still manufacturing sneakers in the U.S. Their Made in USA line, which includes models like the 990, 993, and 1540, is Made in Maine and Massachusetts.
Why New Balance wins: Proven comfort and quality, a legacy of American craftsmanship, and a real commitment to U.S. jobs. New Balance is committed to purchasing materials from domestic suppliers who employ more than 7,000 workers locally. When you buy from their Made in USA line, you’re supporting both your feet and your community.
Crocs vs. Okabashi
The Giant: Crocs are a go-to for casual comfort, but their production is largely outsourced, with limited visibility into sourcing or labor practices.
The Challenger: Okabashi, Made in Georgia, offers similar slip-resistant shoes that are durable, washable and recyclable.
Why Okabashi wins: Recommended by podiatrists and chiropractors nationwide, Okabashi is made with eco-friendly materials, built to last, and backed by a two-year guarantee. A smart choice for budget-conscious families.
SOCKS
Adidas vs. Wigwam
The Giant: Adidas is everywhere, and so is its supply chain. Most of its socks are made abroad, often in the cheapest labor markets.
The Challenger: Wigwam has been knitting socks in Wisconsin for over 120 years. Their performance styles are made to support athletes and adventurers alike, with a strong focus on quality and sustainability.
Why Wigwam wins: Family-owned, union-represented and American-made. Wigwam sources 85% of their raw materials from the U.S., thus supporting the economy and other domestic manufacturers. It’s no surprise they have been trusted for generations. These socks are built to perform and made to last.
Also check out: Fox River Mills
ATHLETIC APPAREL
Under Armour vs. Runyon Canyon Apparel
The Giant: Under Armour built its brand on athletes and innovation but outsourced most of its production long ago.
The Challenger: Runyon, Made in California, is laser-focused on runners. Their minimalist gear is lightweight, breathable, and built for movement.
Why Runyon wins: Clean design, domestic roots, and no excess. Just great gear for your stride. AAM interviewed Runyon founder, Tony Nuccio, on the podcast, The Manufacturing Report. You can find that episode here.
Also check out: WSI Sportswear, Boathouse, American Roots
Lululemon vs. Beyond Yoga
The Giant: Lululemon dominates yoga studios, but most pieces are made in Asia.
The Challenger: Beyond Yoga, designed and manufactured in California, offers buttery-soft leggings and inclusive sizing that moves with every body.
Why Beyond Yoga wins: Ethical, comfortable, and truly local, without sacrificing style or stretch.
Also check out: good hYOUman, Hard Tail Forever
Let’s be honest. Big brands are everywhere. They’re what our kids see on their friends, in the locker room, and trending on TikTok. And in the rush of back-to-school shopping or last-minute gear runs, it’s easy to grab what’s familiar and available. We’ve all been there. But, even in a world of convenience and peer pressure, there’s still room to make thoughtful choices. Every time we pick a Made in USA brand, whether it’s socks from Wisconsin or sneakers from Massachusetts, we’re choosing quality and supporting the people behind the products. It’s a small shift that helps keep jobs local and values intact. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing, but it does make a difference.