Ohio's sports equipment industry includes various companies specializing in manufacturing and retailing gear for athletes across different sports. Ranging from companies producing equipment for fitness training to those focusing on sports apparel, these businesses cater to athletes at all levels, from amateur enthusiasts to professional teams. With a growing focus on innovation and sustainability, many companies are increasingly integrating technology into their products, enhancing performance and user experience. Market trends suggest continued growth driven by rising health consciousness and the popularity of active lifestyles, indicating strong prospects for companies operating within this sector.

This article highlights 21 prominent sports equipment companies based in Ohio, showcasing a mix of larger players and niche specialists. Founded between 1946 and 2015, these privately owned firms operate in various cities including Columbus, Marysville, and Hamilton. Their offerings range from custom sportswear and fitness gear to specialized equipment for specific sports such as soccer and basketball. The sizes vary too, from small teams of less than 50 to larger organizations with hundreds of employees, all contributing to the state's reputation as a hub for quality sports equipment manufacturing.

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

Top 21 Sports Equipment Companies in Ohio

1. Rudis

• Website: rudis.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Marysville, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: therudis

Rudis, based in Marysville, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in sports apparel, particularly for wrestling. Founded in 2013, Rudis has quickly established itself as a go-to source for wrestling gear, including shoes, training apparel, and custom team gear. The company caters to a wide audience, from youth wrestlers to seasoned athletes, emphasizing high-performance items designed to enhance athletic performance. Rudis actively engages with the wrestling community, featuring prominent athletes on their platform and offering products that meet the specific needs of wrestlers. Their focus on quality and performance has allowed them to build a loyal customer base within the wrestling niche.

2. Soccer Village

• Website: soccervillage.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Blue Ash, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: soccer-village

Soccer Village, based in Blue Ash, Ohio, is a private retail company that has been operating since 1984. Specializing in soccer products, they offer a comprehensive range of items including footwear, apparel, and equipment tailored for soccer players and fans alike. The company serves a broad customer base, from individuals to teams, providing essential gear for participation in the sport. Over the years, Soccer Village has built a reputation as one of the largest soccer specialty retailers in the United States, reflecting their dedication to the soccer community. Their commitment to quality products and customer service has allowed them to support thousands of players annually, ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary equipment to enjoy the game.

3. Headlines Sports

• Website: makeheadlines.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamilton, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: headlinessportswear

Headlines Sports, founded in 2015 and based in Hamilton, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in sports apparel, equipment, and digital branding services. With a team of 26 employees, they cater primarily to schools, sports teams, and organizations, helping them enhance their identity and performance through customized uniforms and quality equipment. Their offerings include uniforms and apparel, equipment and facilities, as well as corporate and promotional services. The company emphasizes community engagement and aims to elevate the fan experience, making them a notable player in the sports industry. Their focus on branding and identity development for athletic departments showcases their commitment to supporting sports organizations at various levels.

4. Holloway Sportswear

• Website: hollowayusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sidney, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: holloway-sportswear-inc-

Holloway Sportswear, based in Sidney, Ohio, is a private company that has been active in the sports apparel industry since its founding in 1946. As part of Augusta Sportswear Brands, Holloway specializes in providing a wide array of sports apparel and accessories tailored for athletes, teams, and organizations. Their product offerings include uniforms, training gear, and fanwear across multiple sports such as baseball, basketball, soccer, and football. The company emphasizes customization, allowing clients to design apparel that meets their specific requirements. This focus on personalized service and quality has helped Holloway maintain a solid reputation in the sports apparel market.

5. Rogue Fitness

• Website: roguefitness.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Finland 2%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: rogue-fitness

Rogue Fitness, based in Columbus, Ohio, is a prominent manufacturer and retailer of fitness equipment. Established in 2006, the company specializes in producing a wide array of gym equipment, including barbells, plates, and conditioning tools. Rogue Fitness caters to a broad spectrum of customers, from individual consumers to businesses and organizations within the fitness industry. Their online store allows for direct purchases, enhancing customer accessibility. The company is also known for its involvement in the fitness community, sponsoring events like the Rogue Invitational, which showcases top athletes in CrossFit and strongman competitions. This engagement not only promotes their brand but also reinforces their commitment to the fitness industry. With a workforce of nearly 500 employees, Rogue Fitness continues to grow and innovate, maintaining a strong presence in the market.

6. Shoot-A-Way

• Website: shootaway.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Upper Sandusky, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: shoot-a-way

Shoot-A-Way, based in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in manufacturing basketball training machines. Established in 1982, the company has developed a reputation for its flagship product, 'The Gun', which is designed to improve shooting skills for players ranging from youth to professional levels. Shoot-A-Way's clientele includes schools, coaches, and individual athletes, all seeking effective training solutions. The company emphasizes customization, allowing users to design their machines to fit specific needs. With a workforce of around 18 employees, Shoot-A-Way operates entirely within the United States, underscoring its commitment to American manufacturing. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model. Their products are recognized for their quality and effectiveness, making them a trusted choice among basketball training facilities and programs.

7. EliteFTS.com

• Website: elitefts.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: elitefts-com

EliteFTS.com, based in London, Ohio, is a private fitness equipment retailer that has been operational since 1998. The company focuses on providing a wide array of products tailored for strength training, cardio workouts, and fitness accessories. Their offerings include power racks, benches, resistance bands, and various training gear, which are essential for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. EliteFTS.com is not just a retailer; it actively engages with the fitness community through educational content, including seminars, podcasts, and articles that cover topics like nutrition, training techniques, and program design. This involvement positions them as a resource for both novice and experienced athletes, enhancing their standing in the sports equipment industry.

8. Sports Imports, Inc.

• Website: sportsimports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Worthington, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sports-imports-inc-

Sports Imports, Inc., based in Worthington, Ohio, has been a dedicated player in the sports equipment industry since its founding in 1976. The company specializes in high-quality equipment for volleyball, beach volleyball, badminton, and pickleball. Their product range includes poles, nets, and training equipment, primarily aimed at schools and athletic programs. Sports Imports is recognized as the official volleyball net system provider for the NCAA and NFHS, highlighting their significant role in competitive sports. They have built a reputation for innovation and safety, being the first to introduce a safe in-ground net system without dangerous wires. Their exclusive partnership with Senoh, a renowned manufacturer of volleyball equipment, further solidifies their standing in the market. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a stable, self-sustaining business model.

9. Midwest Sports Tennis Outlet

• Website: midwestsports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: midwest-sports-tennis-outlet

Midwest Sports Tennis Outlet, also known as Tennis-Point, is a retail store based in Cincinnati, Ohio, specializing in tennis and pickleball equipment and apparel. Since its inception in 1981, the company has built a reputation for offering a wide array of products, including racquets, shoes, and accessories tailored for tennis players and pickleball enthusiasts. With a focus on quality and customer service, Tennis-Point strives to enhance the sporting experience for its customers. The company operates a substantial online presence, featuring a vast inventory that allows for quick shipping and a user-friendly shopping experience. Their knowledgeable staff, many of whom are avid tennis players, provide expert guidance to help customers select the right equipment. This commitment to customer care and product knowledge positions Midwest Sports Tennis Outlet as a significant player in the sports equipment market.

10. Golf Headquarters (Youngstown, OH)

• Website: golfhq.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Youngstown, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: golf-headquarters

Golf Headquarters, based in Youngstown, Ohio, has been a player in the golf retail industry since its founding in 1988. The company focuses on providing a wide array of golf-related products, including shoes, apparel, clubs, bags, and various accessories. With a commitment to serving golf enthusiasts, Golf HQ operates an online store that enhances customer access to quality gear. Their offerings are not limited to just equipment; they also provide expert fittings and personalized services, ensuring that customers find the right products for their needs. The company has built a reputation for quality and customer service, which is crucial in the competitive sports equipment market.

11. Capitol Varsity Sports Inc

• Website: capitolvarsity.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oxford, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1954
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: capitol-varsity-sports-inc

Capitol Varsity Sports Inc, based in Oxford, Ohio, has been a significant player in the sporting goods industry since its inception in 1954. Originally part of the Capitol Dry Cleaning Company, it has evolved into a dedicated retailer and reconditioning service for sports equipment. The company focuses on ensuring athlete safety through the reconditioning of helmets, pads, and other gear, serving a wide range of clients including educational institutions and sports organizations. Capitol Varsity is a founding member of the National Athletic Equipment Reconditioners Association, which highlights its commitment to maintaining high standards in equipment safety. They are licensed by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment to recertify various types of helmets, further emphasizing their role in promoting safety in sports. The company also operates retail outlets and represents several major sporting goods brands, providing both new and reconditioned equipment. With a workforce of around 15 employees, Capitol Varsity continues to uphold its legacy of service and quality in the sports equipment market.

12. Ares Sportswear

• Website: areswear.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hilliard, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ares-sportswear

Ares Sportswear, founded in 1994 and based in Hilliard, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in custom sportswear. With a workforce of approximately 53 employees, Ares focuses on providing high-quality apparel for sports teams, schools, and various organizations. Their product range includes customizable options such as t-shirts, hoodies, and uniforms, which are designed to meet the specific needs of athletic teams. Ares Sportswear has developed a streamlined ordering process that simplifies the design and delivery of custom gear, making it easier for customers to outfit their teams. The company collaborates with well-known brands like Under Armour and Gildan, ensuring that they offer reliable and trusted products. Ares Sportswear has built a reputation for quality and customer service, which is reflected in positive customer feedback and repeat business.

13. Columbus Running Company

• Website: columbusrunning.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: columbus-running-company

Columbus Running Company, founded in 2004 and based in Columbus, Ohio, is a privately owned retail store dedicated to serving the running and walking community. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company operates six locations across Central Ohio. They specialize in a wide range of products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories designed for runners and walkers of all ages. Beyond retail, Columbus Running Company is actively involved in the local running scene by organizing races and offering various training programs, such as beginner running classes and youth running clubs. Their commitment to enhancing the fitness experience is evident through services like personalized fitting processes and community outreach initiatives. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model focused on local engagement and customer loyalty.

14. Phoenix Bats

• Website: phoenixbats.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Plain Township, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: phoenixbats

Phoenix Bats, founded in 1996 and based in Plain Township, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in manufacturing high-quality wood baseball and softball bats. The company serves a range of customers, from amateur players to professionals, offering a variety of customizable products designed for both training and competitive play. Phoenix Bats prides itself on its craftsmanship, using only top-grade American woods such as rock maple, yellow birch, and northern white ash. Their product line includes not only standard bats but also specialized options like high-density bats, youth bats, and even bats designed for beep baseball, catering to players with visual impairments. Operating primarily through an online store, Phoenix Bats provides direct access to its products, ensuring that customers can easily find and customize the bats that best suit their needs. The company has been recognized for its quality, with its bats approved for professional use since 2000.

15. Par One Inc.

• Website: par-one.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: par-one

Par One Inc., founded in 1988 and based in Cleveland, Ohio, is a private retail company that specializes in golf-related products. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, the company has established itself as a provider of a wide range of golf items, including golf balls, bags, apparel, and accessories. Par One Inc. caters to both individual consumers and businesses, offering products that enhance the golfing experience. Their online store facilitates easy access to their offerings, which include well-known brands such as Titleist, Callaway, and TaylorMade. The company also provides custom packaging options, indicating a tailored approach to meet specific customer needs. Par One Inc. has maintained its relevance in the golf equipment market for over three decades, demonstrating a commitment to serving the golfing community.

16. Sweaty Bands

• Website: sweatybands.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: apparel-accessory-distributor

Sweaty Bands, founded in 2007 and based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a private company that focuses on fitness apparel, particularly non-slip headbands and hair accessories. With a team of 51-200 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the fitness industry by offering products that combine functionality with style. Their headbands are designed to stay in place during workouts, addressing a common issue faced by fitness enthusiasts. Sweaty Bands has built a loyal customer base, as evidenced by numerous positive reviews highlighting the effectiveness and aesthetic appeal of their products. The company operates primarily in the United States and has not reported any external funding, indicating a self-sustained business model. Their extensive product range includes various styles and collections, catering to different tastes and preferences, which further solidifies their position in the fitness apparel market.

17. Pioneer Athletics

• Website: pioneerathletics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Georgia 4%, Canada 4%
• Founded year: 1905
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pioneerathletics

Pioneer Athletics, based in Cleveland, Ohio, has been a significant player in the athletic field marking and maintenance industry since its founding in 1905. The company specializes in providing a wide array of products, including field paints, striping machines, and maintenance equipment tailored for various sports. Their offerings cater primarily to schools and sports organizations, ensuring that athletic fields are maintained to high standards. Pioneer Athletics is recognized for its commitment to quality, with products engineered to meet the specific needs of natural grass and synthetic turf fields. They have also made strides in environmental responsibility by introducing VOC-free field marking paints, which have received recognition from the EPA. This focus on innovation and customer service underscores their role as a reliable partner in the sports equipment industry.

18. Bodycraft

• Website: bodycraft.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lewis Center, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bodycraftfitness

Bodycraft, founded in 1994 and based in Lewis Center, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in the manufacturing and retailing of fitness equipment. The company offers a wide array of products, including treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, and functional training equipment, catering to both residential and commercial markets. Bodycraft is dedicated to providing high-quality fitness solutions, ensuring that their equipment meets the needs of various users, from casual exercisers to serious athletes. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their support services and product registration options. With a workforce of around 54 employees, Bodycraft maintains a focused approach to its operations, emphasizing quality and innovation in fitness equipment.

19. Fitness Quest Inc.

• Website: bosu.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Canton, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fitness-quest

Fitness Quest Inc., based in Canton, Ohio, is a private company founded in 2000. It operates under the brand name BOSU, which is well-known for its innovative fitness products that emphasize balance training. The company manufactures and retails a variety of fitness equipment, including the original BOSU Balance Trainer, exercise balls, and gym accessories like resistance bands and core sliders. Fitness Quest Inc. primarily sells its products through its online store, providing direct access to consumers and fitness professionals alike. Their focus on balance training aligns with current fitness trends that prioritize functional movement and core stability, making them a relevant player in the sports equipment industry.

20. Gamemaster Athletic

• Website: gamemasterathletic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: West Chester Township, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: gamemaster-athletic

Gamemaster Athletic, based in West Chester Township, Ohio, has been a player in the sports equipment industry since its founding in 1975. The company specializes in sports training equipment and aids specifically for baseball and softball. Their product range includes pitching machines, training balls, and protective gear, catering to the needs of athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts alike. Gamemaster Athletic operates primarily through an online store, allowing direct access to their products for consumers and organizations involved in sports training. Their partnership with Louisville Slugger enhances their product offerings and market presence, making them a relevant entity in the sports equipment sector.

21. Runners Plus

• Website: runnersplus.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dayton, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: runners-plus

Runners Plus, founded in 2005 and based in Dayton, Ohio, is a retail store dedicated to running and fitness enthusiasts. The company offers a wide range of products, including running shoes, apparel, and accessories. They pride themselves on their knowledgeable staff, who provide personalized services such as gait analysis to help customers select the most appropriate footwear for their needs. Runners Plus actively engages with the local running community by sponsoring events and promoting clubs like the Dayton Track Club. Their mission is to deliver exceptional service and expert advice, making them a go-to destination for runners in the Dayton area.

Sports Equipment Insights: Key Companies in Ohio

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Rudis	Marysville, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	2013	Private
Soccer Village	Blue Ash, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	1984	Private
Headlines Sports	Hamilton, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	Private
Holloway Sportswear	Sidney, Ohio, United States (USA)	201-500	1946	Private
Rogue Fitness	Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2006	Private
Shoot-A-Way	Upper Sandusky, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	1982	Private
EliteFTS.com	London, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	1998	Private
Sports Imports, Inc.	Worthington, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	1976	Private
Midwest Sports Tennis Outlet	Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	1981	Private
Golf Headquarters (Youngstown, OH)	Youngstown, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	1988	Private
Capitol Varsity Sports Inc	Oxford, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	1954	Private
Ares Sportswear	Hilliard, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	1994	Private
Columbus Running Company	Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	2004	Private
Phoenix Bats	Plain Township, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private
Par One Inc.	Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	1988	Private
Sweaty Bands	Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	2007	Private
Pioneer Athletics	Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	1905	Private
Bodycraft	Lewis Center, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	1994	Private
Fitness Quest Inc.	Canton, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	2000	Private
Gamemaster Athletic	West Chester Township, Ohio, United States (USA)	1-10	1975	Private
Runners Plus	Dayton, Ohio, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private

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