Virginia's sports equipment industry features a range of companies dedicated to producing high-performance gear for various outdoor and athletic activities. From apparel for active lifestyles to specialized equipment for sports like lacrosse and golf, the sector caters to a growing demand for quality products. With fitness trends gaining momentum, brands that embrace sustainability and innovation are particularly carving their niches. Companies are investing in advanced technologies to enhance product features, creating exciting opportunities in both retail and manufacturing segments. As consumers increasingly focus on wellness, the industry continues to evolve to meet these shifting consumer needs.


The companies listed highlight Virginia's thriving sports equipment sector. Ranging from startups to established players, these businesses specialize in areas from outdoor apparel like Born Primitive to running shoes with specialties seen at Pacers Running. Founded between the late 1970s and early 2010s, many are based in accessible areas like Richmond and Virginia Beach, embodying a blend of innovation and tradition. Sizes vary, with some employing just a handful to over 200 employees, reflecting the elasticity and potential within the market.


Continue reading to discover the top sports equipment companies in Virginia.


Top 19 Sports Equipment Companies in Virginia


1. Born Primitive

  • Website: bornprimitive.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, United Arab Emirates 4%
  • Latest funding: $75,000, November 2021
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: bornprimitive

Born Primitive, founded in 2014 and based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a private company that specializes in high-performance workout clothing and outdoor gear for both men and women. The brand is dedicated to serving fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, offering a range of products designed for durability and functionality. Their collections include items such as leggings, shorts, joggers, tactical gear, and outdoor apparel, all crafted to meet the demands of active lifestyles. Born Primitive operates primarily through its online platform, where customers can explore various collections and promotions. The company has also received funding, with a reported amount of $75,000 in November 2021, indicating ongoing investment in their growth and product development.


2. KETTLER International, Inc.

  • Website: kettlerusa.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, Slovakia 9%
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: kettler-international-inc.

KETTLER International, Inc., based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, was founded in 1981 and operates as a private company with a workforce of approximately 35 employees. The company specializes in outdoor furniture, sports equipment, and toys, catering primarily to consumers seeking quality leisure and fitness products. KETTLER USA is particularly known for its range of sports equipment, including table tennis tables, foosball tables, and various fitness machines like elliptical trainers and exercise bikes. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident through their online retail platform, which provides direct access to their product offerings. KETTLER also collaborates with authorized dealers and engages in commercial sales, further solidifying its presence in the sports equipment market.


3. Rhoback

  • Website: rhoback.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: rhoback

Rhoback, founded in 2016 and based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a private company that specializes in high-quality activewear. The brand offers a range of products, including hoodies, joggers, and polos, designed for individuals who lead active lifestyles. Rhoback emphasizes the importance of community and activity, believing that clothing should inspire movement and engagement. Their unique VSoft™ fabric is a highlight of their product line, aimed at providing comfort and performance for various activities. Rhoback also features a roster of athletes, showcasing their commitment to the sports community. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model.


4. Sports Plus, Inc


Sports Plus, Inc., based in Chantilly, Virginia, has been a significant player in the sports apparel and equipment industry since its founding in 1989. The company specializes in high-quality team uniforms, spiritwear, and sports equipment, serving a wide range of clients including athletes, schools, and community organizations. Sports Plus is dedicated to providing customizable products that enhance team identity and performance. Their offerings include uniforms for various sports such as football, basketball, soccer, and more, all crafted with attention to durability and style. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring that clients receive products that meet their specific needs. With a team of 23 employees, Sports Plus continues to be an active participant in the sports community, focusing on innovation and excellence in their product lines.


5. Dynamic Brands

  • Website: dynamicbrands.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, India 4%
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: dynamic-brands

Dynamic Brands, founded in 2004 and based in Richmond, Virginia, is a private company that specializes in premium golf and leisure products. With a workforce of approximately 82 employees, the company operates an online store that provides easy access to a wide range of sporting goods. Their product lineup includes golf bags, push carts, travel covers, and various accessories, catering to both consumers and organizations. Dynamic Brands is the parent company of several brands, including Bag Boy, Burton, Datrek, and Devant Sport Towels, among others. Each brand focuses on specific product categories, enhancing their overall market presence in the sporting goods industry. The company emphasizes innovation and quality, aiming to deliver outstanding customer service and meet the needs of sports enthusiasts.


6. Pacers Running

  • Website: runpacers.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: pacers-running-stores

Pacers Running, founded in 1991 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is a retail company dedicated to serving the needs of runners and fitness enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of products, including running shoes, apparel, and accessories, all designed to enhance performance and comfort. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Pacers Running operates both an online store and several physical locations in the DC and Northern Virginia area. Their commitment to the running community is evident through their organization of races and social runs, which not only promote fitness but also foster a sense of community among participants. This engagement with the local running culture positions them as a relevant player in the sports equipment industry.


7. Madlax Sports

  • Website: madlax.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: madlax-sports

Madlax Sports, founded in 1996 and based in McLean, Virginia, is a dedicated lacrosse retailer and training organization. The company offers a comprehensive selection of lacrosse equipment, apparel, and training programs tailored for players, coaches, and teams in the DMV area. Madlax is not just a store; it actively engages in the development of lacrosse skills through various camps, clinics, and competitive events. Their focus on fostering talent and promoting the sport is evident in their structured training programs, which cater to different age groups and skill levels. Madlax also provides custom team gear, enhancing their role in the lacrosse community. While they have not reported any funding, their long-standing presence in the industry and commitment to lacrosse make them a notable entity in the sports equipment market.


8. 17th Street Surf Shop

  • Website: 17thst.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chesapeake, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1970
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: 17th-street-surf-shop

17th Street Surf Shop, located in Chesapeake, Virginia, has been a staple in the surf and skate community since its inception in 1970. This privately owned retail store specializes in a wide range of products tailored for surfing and skating enthusiasts. Their inventory includes not only surfboards and skateboards but also a variety of apparel, footwear, and accessories designed for both performance and style. The shop enhances its customer experience by offering surf lessons, which cater to individuals looking to learn or improve their surfing skills. With a dedicated team and a commitment to serving the local community, 17th Street Surf Shop has established itself as a relevant player in the sports equipment market, particularly in the niche of surf and skate culture.


9. Golfdom

  • Website: golfdomgolf.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: golfdom

Golfdom, founded in 1982 and based in McLean, Virginia, operates as a retail company under the umbrella of Worldwide Golf Shops. The company specializes in golf equipment and apparel, offering a wide array of products that include clubs, footwear, and accessories tailored for golfers at all levels. Golfdom emphasizes customer satisfaction through services such as custom club fitting and repair, ensuring that golfers have the right tools to improve their game. They also provide a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, reflecting their commitment to quality and customer service. With a focus on enhancing the golfing experience, Golfdom remains an active participant in the golf retail industry, serving a niche market that values specialized products and personalized service.


10. Coastal Edge Surf-n-Skate Shop


Coastal Edge Surf-n-Skate Shop, founded in 1990 and located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a private retail company that specializes in surf and skate products. The shop caters to a clientele that values quality gear for active lifestyles, offering a wide range of clothing, footwear, and accessories designed specifically for surfing and skateboarding. Their online store enhances accessibility, allowing customers to conveniently shop for their needs. Coastal Edge also engages with the community through initiatives like skate and surf camps, demonstrating their commitment to fostering interest in these sports. With a dedicated team of around 18 employees, the company maintains a strong local presence while serving customers across the United States.


11. Point 2 Running Company

  • Website: runpoint2.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Newport News, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: point-2-running-company

Point 2 Running Company, founded in 2011 and based in Newport News, Virginia, is a family-owned retail business dedicated to serving the running and walking community. The company offers a wide range of products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories, tailored to meet the specific needs of runners and walkers. They pride themselves on their personalized fitting services, which help customers find the right gear based on individual requirements. Beyond retail, Point 2 actively engages with the local community through group runs, sponsorships, and charitable initiatives, contributing to local nonprofits and hosting events that promote fitness and well-being. Their commitment to education is evident in the resources they provide, such as running tips and shoe fitting guidance, further solidifying their role as a supportive partner in the fitness journey of their customers.


12. Runabout Sports Llc

  • Website: runaboutsports.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Blacksburg, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: runabout-sports-llc

Runabout Sports Llc, established in 2002, operates as a running and walking specialty store located in Blacksburg, Virginia. The company caters to fitness enthusiasts and families, offering a variety of products, primarily focusing on men's and women's shoes. They stand out by providing personalized services such as video gait analysis, which helps customers find the right footwear based on their unique biomechanics. Additionally, Runabout Sports promotes sustainability through their old shoe recycling program, ensuring that used footwear is repurposed for those in need. The company actively engages with the local community by organizing events and races, including the RunAbout Race Series, which encourages participation in healthy activities. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their 30-day shoe fit guarantee, allowing customers to ensure their purchases meet their needs. With a dedicated staff and a focus on health and fitness, Runabout Sports has established itself as a valuable player in the sports equipment market.


13. Relay Goods

  • Website: relaygoods.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: thrivident

Relay Goods, founded in 2010 and based in Richmond, Virginia, is a private retailer specializing in athletic footwear, particularly running shoes. The company offers a wide selection of products, including shoes for both men and women, insoles, and various running gear. Relay Goods distinguishes itself by focusing on sustainability, selling 99% new shoes and promoting a zero-waste approach. They source excess inventory from top brands, making high-quality footwear accessible at competitive prices. The company also emphasizes customer satisfaction with features like a 30-day unlimited mile trial and same-day shipping for orders placed before 3 PM EST. Relay Goods has built a reputation for quality and affordability in the athletic footwear market, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.


14. Hue Lens

  • Website: huelens.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 67%, Germany 17%, Philippines 17%
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: hueai

Hue Lens, operating under Hue.AI LLC, is a private company based in Vienna, Virginia, founded in 2016. The firm focuses on developing advanced eyewear solutions, particularly their patented COLORBOOST™ lenses. These lenses are engineered to enhance color vision and visual performance, catering specifically to athletes and sports enthusiasts. Hue Lens markets its products across a variety of sports, including cycling, skiing, racquet sports, and gaming, emphasizing the importance of visual clarity and safety in these activities. The company collaborates with eyewear brands and eye care professionals to distribute its innovative lens technology, which is designed to improve depth perception, tracking, and reaction times for users. With a small team of around 18 employees, Hue Lens is actively contributing to the sports equipment industry through its specialized lens offerings.


15. Spire Collective

  • Website: spirecollective.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Troy, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: storeyourboard

Spire Collective, founded in 2009 and based in Troy, Virginia, is an eCommerce company that specializes in innovative storage solutions for outdoor gear. The company operates primarily through online retail, offering a range of products designed to help outdoor enthusiasts organize their equipment effectively. Their flagship brand, StoreYourBoard, has established itself as a top online retailer for adventure sports storage solutions, shipping over 1,500 products worldwide. The company has grown significantly since its inception, evolving from a single-person operation to a team of 19 dedicated employees. Spire Collective emphasizes continuous improvement and innovative product design, aiming to enhance the lives of their customers by allowing them to focus on their adventures rather than the clutter of their gear.


16. Appomattox River Company Inc.

  • Website: paddleva.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Farmville, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: appomattox-river-company-inc-

Appomattox River Company Inc., based in Farmville, Virginia, has been serving the paddlesports community since 1977. The company specializes in canoes, kayaks, and a wide range of accessories, making it a go-to destination for paddlesports enthusiasts. With a dedicated team of knowledgeable staff, Appomattox River Company provides expert advice to help customers select the right equipment for their outdoor adventures. The company has grown alongside the paddlesports industry, adapting to trends and innovations over the years. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has fostered a loyal customer base, ensuring that both novices and seasoned paddlers find what they need. The company operates multiple locations and engages actively in community events, further solidifying its role in the paddlesports market.


17. MyGolfSpy

  • Website: mygolfspy.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Yorktown, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: mygolfspy

MyGolfSpy, founded in 2008 and based in Yorktown, Virginia, operates as an independent golf equipment review site. The company specializes in rigorous testing and analysis of golf products, including clubs, balls, and accessories. Through its comprehensive buyer's guides and reviews, MyGolfSpy aims to empower golf enthusiasts with data-driven insights to enhance their purchasing decisions. The platform also features a store where customers can buy various golf-related products. MyGolfSpy has built a reputation for transparency and accuracy in its evaluations, making it a trusted resource for golfers seeking to improve their game. The company engages with its audience through forums and podcasts, fostering a community of informed golfers who value performance over marketing claims.


18. Revolution Cycles, Inc.


Revolution Cycles, Inc. is a private bicycle retailer and manufacturer based in Arlington, Virginia, established in 1997. The company specializes in a wide array of bicycles, cycling gear, and apparel, catering to both cycling enthusiasts and casual riders. Revolution Cycles emphasizes high-quality products and exceptional customer service, aiming to enhance the cycling experience for its customers. They operate through a network of local retailers and online sales, ensuring accessibility to their products. The company has built a reputation for its commitment to the cycling community, providing not just products but also support and expertise to riders of all levels.


19. Ragged Mountain Running Shop


Ragged Mountain Running Shop, established in 1982, is a family-owned retail store located in Charlottesville, Virginia. The shop specializes in running and walking footwear and gear, offering a personalized experience that includes gait analysis to help customers find the right shoes for their unique needs. With a team dedicated to understanding individual foot mechanics, they cater to a wide range of customers, from casual walkers to seasoned marathoners. Beyond retail, Ragged Mountain is deeply involved in the local running community, having organized over 550 area races and contributed significantly to local non-profits. Their commitment to community engagement and customer service has solidified their reputation as a trusted resource for runners in Central Virginia.



Sports Equipment Insights: Key Companies in Virginia


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Born PrimitiveVirginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2002014Private
KETTLER International, Inc.Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501981Private
RhobackCharlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502016Private
Sports Plus, IncChantilly, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501989Private
Dynamic BrandsRichmond, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2002004Private
Pacers RunningArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001991Private
Madlax SportsMclean, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501996Private
17th Street Surf ShopChesapeake, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001970Private
GolfdomMclean, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501982Private
Coastal Edge Surf-n-Skate ShopVirginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001990Private
Point 2 Running CompanyNewport News, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502011Family Owned
Runabout Sports LlcBlacksburg, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502002Private
Relay GoodsRichmond, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502010Private
Hue LensVienna, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502016Private
Spire CollectiveTroy, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502009Private
Appomattox River Company Inc.Farmville, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501977Private
MyGolfSpyYorktown, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502008Private
Revolution Cycles, Inc.Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001997Private
Ragged Mountain Running ShopCharlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001982Family Owned


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