Since 1971
It all began with an iconic star, and the idea that "Every athlete dreams of being a starting player."
But Starter didn't stop at athletes, transforming SPORTS CULTURE into FAN CULTURE and then
into POP CULTURE, became our winning play.
1971
A former college athlete with a passion for sports, DAVID BECKERMAN launches Starter. A sporting goods and apparel business in New Haven CT. The name was chosen for its simplicity and because every athlete dreams of being a starting player
1976
At the time it was difficult to find licensed sports apparel in the store, so Beckerman convinced Major League Baseball's Licensing Corp. to grant him a license in 1976 to produce licensed sports apparel, jackets and accessories. Licenses for the NBA and NHL quickly followed.
1983
In 1983, the NFL finally agreed to a deal after eight years of rejection. By this time, Starter had every major professional sport in its lineup.
1985-2000
On-field/on-court supplier for all major pro leagues.
1988
The movie "Coming to America" features Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall wearing Yankees and Mets Starter Jackets in a scene that would become iconic to this day.
Early 1990's
In the early 1990s, Starter began to expand its distribution networks to reach over 25 countries in North America, Europe, and the Pacific Rim.
DJ JAZZY JEFF provided ideas and participated in the shooting of two STARTER fun advertisements "Teach you how to wear STARTER hats correctly".
Early 2010's
2015
Early 2020's
In 2021, Starter celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a yearlong partnership with Budweiser, featuring exclusive drops – including a special collection for the return of the Bud Bowl during Super Bowl LV, the ultimate meeting of sport and fan culture.
In 2023, Starter and the NHL team up for The Black Ice Collection, a limited-edition release that merges hockey and street style.
In 2024, Starter partners with Levi’s® to launch a collection of teams jackets spanning major leagues, a tribute to two iconic American brands that have shaped culture for generations. Team Starter debuts, offering a seamless online platform for custom team uniforms, making it easier for teams to design their own apparel.