California's sports equipment companies are pivotal in supplying gear for a variety of athletic pursuits. From specialized footwear brands like Vans to cutting-edge performance eyewear from Oakley, the industry caters to unique athlete needs across sports like skateboarding, soccer, and cycling. As athletes increasingly prioritize quality and sustainability, companies are innovating to ensure their products not only support performance but also environmental responsibility. With potential growth fueled by e-commerce and direct-to-consumer models, California's sports equipment sector is evolving rapidly, poised for substantial influence in both local and global markets.

The following list features 22 sports equipment companies based in California, each showcasing its own niche. Some are industry giants, employing thousands, like Vans and Oakley, while others are smaller, specialized brands founded in the late twentieth century. These companies represent a mix of product focuses, from high-performance eyewear and skate shoes to protective gear and training equipment, underscoring California's significant role in the sports equipment arena.

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

Top 22 Sports Equipment Companies in California

1. Vans

• Website: vans.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Costa Mesa, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 64%, Brazil 6%, Canada 4%, Other 26%
• Latest funding: April 2004
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: vans

Vans, founded in 1966 and headquartered in Costa Mesa, California, is a prominent apparel and footwear brand that specializes in skateboarding shoes and action sports gear. The company offers a wide range of products, including shoes, clothing, and accessories tailored for consumers engaged in various sports, particularly skateboarding, BMX, snowboarding, and surfing. Vans operates through both online and physical retail channels, ensuring accessibility for active lifestyle enthusiasts. The brand is well-known for its strong ties to the skateboarding culture and has built a reputation for quality and style among athletes and casual users alike. Vans also actively participates in the action sports community by sponsoring events and athletes, further enhancing its relevance in the industry.

2. Oakley

• Website: oakley.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Lake Forest, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 72%, Brazil 5%, Australia 5%, Other 18%
• Latest funding: June 2021
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: oakley

Oakley, Inc., established in 1975 and headquartered in Lake Forest, California, is a prominent manufacturer and retailer of sports equipment, particularly known for its high-performance eyewear, apparel, and accessories. The company caters primarily to athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, emphasizing quality and innovation in its product designs. Oakley has developed a range of specialized products, including sunglasses, goggles, and helmets, which are engineered to enhance athletic performance and provide protection in various sports environments. The brand operates a direct-to-consumer model through its online store and physical retail locations, allowing it to connect directly with consumers and adapt to their needs. With a workforce of over 4,000 employees, Oakley continues to be a significant player in the sports equipment industry, focusing on delivering cutting-edge products that meet the demands of modern athletes.

3. Mikasa Sports USA

• Website: mikasasports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Corona, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, Brazil 16%, Spain 16%
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mikasa-sports-usa

Mikasa Sports USA, based in Corona, California, is a sports equipment manufacturer that specializes in high-quality athletic balls and equipment. Established in 1973, the company has built a strong reputation primarily in volleyball, but has expanded its product line to include basketball, soccer, football, rugby, and water polo equipment. Mikasa serves a wide range of customers, including athletes, sports teams, and recreational players, providing them with the gear necessary to improve their performance and enjoyment of sports. The company emphasizes quality and innovation, ensuring that their products meet the demands of modern athletes. Mikasa's commitment to the playground segment also highlights their dedication to fostering sports at all levels, from youth to professional. Their involvement in various sports events and partnerships with athletes further solidifies their position in the sports equipment market.

4. Sports Basement

• Website: sportsbasement.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: sportsbasement

Sports Basement is a private retail company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1998. The company specializes in sports and outdoor equipment, offering a comprehensive selection of products that cater to various activities, including snow sports, camping, biking, and fitness. With a workforce of approximately 393 employees, Sports Basement operates primarily through its online store, making it accessible to a broad audience of outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. The company is known for its competitive pricing and partnerships with reputable brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, and Hoka. Sports Basement also engages with the community through events and partnerships, further solidifying its role in the sports equipment industry.

5. DC Shoes

• Website: dcshoes.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Huntington Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 24%, France 14%, Argentina 12%, Other 50%
• Latest funding: $56.0M, March 2004
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: dc-shoes

DC Shoes, Inc., founded in 1994 and based in Huntington Beach, California, is a prominent footwear and apparel brand that specializes in products tailored for action sports, particularly skateboarding and snowboarding. The company offers a wide range of footwear, clothing, and accessories designed not only for performance but also for style. Their product lines include advanced snowboard boots and skate shoes, which are crafted to meet the demands of athletes and enthusiasts alike. DC Shoes has built a strong community presence, actively engaging with consumers through sponsorships and collaborations with professional athletes. This involvement helps to solidify their position in the action sports industry, making them a recognized name among consumers seeking quality gear. With a workforce of approximately 858 employees and a global reach, DC Shoes continues to cater to a dedicated customer base passionate about skateboarding and snowboarding.

6. SCORE Sports

• Website: scoresports.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, Mexico 25%
• Latest funding: September 2022
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: score-sports

SCORE Sports, based in Irvine, California, has been a player in the sports apparel and equipment industry since its inception in 1975. The company specializes in providing a wide range of products tailored for soccer, basketball, and baseball. Their catalog includes uniforms, training gear, and essential accessories, which are vital for sports teams, schools, and individual athletes. SCORE Sports prides itself on delivering quality and performance, ensuring that their customers have reliable gear for their sporting needs. The company operates primarily in the United States and Mexico, with a workforce of around 113 employees. Their commitment to customer service is evident in their personalized approach, where they aim to be a partner to their clients rather than just a supplier. This focus on community and customer engagement enhances their reputation in the sports equipment market.

7. Sklz

• Website: sklz.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Carlsbad, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 49%, Greece 26%, China 26%
• Latest funding: August 2018
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pro-performance-sports

Sklz, based in Carlsbad, California, is a sports training equipment retailer that has been operational since 2002. The company offers a wide array of products designed to enhance athletic performance across multiple sports, including soccer, baseball, basketball, football, golf, hockey, and more. Sklz emphasizes the importance of both cognitive and physical training, providing athletes with tools that help improve their skills and decision-making abilities on the field. Their product lineup includes training aids, accessories, and specialized equipment aimed at athletes of all levels, from youth to professional. Sklz has built a reputation for quality and innovation in the sports training market, making it a notable entity in the industry.

8. Shock Doctor

• Website: shockdoctor.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Fountain Valley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Australia 100%
• Latest funding: $47.7M, May 2019
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: shock-doctor-inc-

Shock Doctor, based in Fountain Valley, California, specializes in protective sports equipment. Founded in 1992, the company has carved out a niche in providing essential gear such as mouthguards, braces, and compression apparel. Their products are designed to enhance safety and performance for athletes across multiple sports, including football, hockey, basketball, and martial arts. Shock Doctor's commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their extensive range of mouthguards tailored for different sports and needs, including options for those with braces. The company has also attracted substantial funding, amounting to over $47 million, which underscores its potential for growth and relevance in the sports equipment market.

9. Fox Racing

• Website: foxracing.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 52%, Spain 21%, Canada 9%, Other 18%
• Latest funding: $540.0M, July 2022
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: fox-racing

Fox Racing, based in Irvine, California, is a prominent name in the extreme sports gear industry, specializing in motocross and mountain biking equipment. Since its inception in 1974, the company has focused on providing high-quality protective gear, apparel, and accessories tailored for both enthusiasts and professional athletes. Their offerings include a wide array of products such as helmets, jerseys, pants, and gloves, designed to enhance performance and safety in motocross and mountain biking. With a workforce of over 600 employees and a significant presence in various countries, including the USA, Spain, and Canada, Fox Racing continues to innovate and expand its product lines. The company has also secured substantial funding, reflecting its ongoing relevance and potential for growth in the sports equipment market.

10. Easton Diamond Sports, LLC.

• Website: easton.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Thousand Oaks, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1922
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: easton-baseball-softball

Easton Diamond Sports, LLC. is a private sports equipment manufacturer based in Thousand Oaks, California. Established in 1922, the company specializes in producing high-quality baseball and softball gear. Their product range includes bats, gloves, protective equipment, and apparel, catering to athletes of all ages and skill levels. Easton is known for its innovative approach, integrating advanced technology into their products to enhance performance and safety. The company actively engages with athletes and teams, providing gear that meets the specific needs of the baseball and softball communities. Their focus on quality and performance has made them a respected name in the industry, appealing to both amateur and professional players.

11. Jr286

• Website: jr286.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Torrance, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Vietnam 8%, Netherlands 7%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: jr286

Jr286, based in Torrance, California, is a private company that specializes in the sporting goods industry. Established in 1999, it focuses on the design, development, manufacturing, and distribution of branded sports equipment and accessories. The company collaborates with prominent brands such as Nike and Jordan, providing high-quality products to both businesses and consumers. With a workforce of approximately 244 employees, Jr286 operates not only in the United States but also has a presence in countries like Vietnam, the Netherlands, and China. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their product offerings, which cater to a wide range of sports and lifestyle needs. Additionally, Jr286 is dedicated to corporate social responsibility, supporting initiatives like the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, which underscores their commitment to community engagement and ethical practices.

12. Giro Sport Design

• Website: giro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Scotts Valley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: giro-sport-design-international-inc-

Giro Sport Design, based in Scotts Valley, California, specializes in sports equipment with a primary focus on cycling and snow sports. Established in 1985, the company offers a wide range of products, including helmets, goggles, and apparel, all designed with an emphasis on safety and performance. Giro caters to outdoor sports enthusiasts who seek high-quality gear that enhances their experience. The company operates mainly through an online retail model, making their products accessible to a broad audience. Giro is known for its innovative technologies, such as MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) and VIVID lens technology, which improve safety and visual clarity. Their involvement in the industry is further highlighted by partnerships with professional cycling teams, showcasing their commitment to the sports they serve.

13. OGIO, Inc.

• Website: ogio.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Carlsbad, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, United Kingdom (UK) 12%
• Latest funding: $75.5M, January 2017
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ogio-international

OGIO, Inc., founded in 1987 and based in Carlsbad, California, is a retail company that specializes in travel and sports gear. The company offers a range of products, including travel bags, backpacks, and golf equipment, catering to consumers who seek both durability and style in their active lifestyles. OGIO operates an online store, making their products easily accessible to a broad audience. Their product lines include collections specifically designed for golf, team sports, and travel, showcasing their commitment to the sports equipment industry. The company has received significant funding, amounting to $75.5 million, which indicates investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, OGIO continues to be a relevant player in the sports equipment market.

14. VS Athletics

• Website: vsathletics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Torrance, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: vs-athletics

VS Athletics, founded in 1990 and based in Torrance, California, is a private retail company that specializes in athletic footwear, apparel, and track and field equipment. The company serves a variety of clients, including athletes, schools, and sports organizations, by offering high-quality products designed for optimal performance in various sports. Their product range includes not only Nike footwear and apparel but also a comprehensive selection of training and competition equipment tailored for track and field events. With a dedicated focus on this niche market, VS Athletics has established itself as a reliable source for athletic gear, catering to the specific needs of its customers. The company operates with a small team of around 19 employees, emphasizing a personalized approach to service and sales.

15. Yonex USA

• Website: yonexusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Torrance, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, India 4%, Jamaica 4%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: yonexusa

Yonex USA, founded in 1983 and based in Torrance, California, is a private company that manufactures and retails high-quality sports equipment and apparel. The company specializes in various sports, including badminton, tennis, golf, running, and snowboarding. Yonex USA is known for its innovative products designed to enhance athletic performance and comfort. The company operates primarily through a direct-to-consumer model via its online store, allowing it to connect directly with athletes and sports enthusiasts. Yonex has established itself as a significant player in the sports equipment industry, sponsoring top athletes and events, particularly in badminton and tennis, which showcases its commitment to the sports community.

16. Troy Lee Designs

• Website: troyleedesigns.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Corona, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, Canada 17%
• Latest funding: December 2016
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: troy-lee-designs

Troy Lee Designs, founded in 1981 and based in Corona, California, is a prominent player in the sports equipment industry, particularly in motocross and mountain biking. The company specializes in high-quality gear, including helmets, jerseys, and protective equipment, designed for both professional athletes and recreational riders. With a workforce of around 119 employees, Troy Lee Designs operates primarily through an online store, ensuring direct access to their products for customers across the United States and Canada. The brand is well-known for its collaborations with professional racing teams, such as the Red Bull and GASGAS Factory Racing teams, which not only showcases their products in competitive environments but also reinforces their reputation for quality and performance. Their commitment to innovation and safety in sports gear has made them a respected name among enthusiasts and professionals alike.

17. Senda Athletics

• Website: sendaathletics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 61%, Chile 17%, Spain 17%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: senda-athletics

Senda Athletics, based in Berkeley, California, is a private sports equipment retailer that specializes in futsal and soccer gear. Established in 2011, the company offers a range of products including balls, shoes, and accessories designed to enhance player performance and comfort. Senda Athletics not only sells equipment but also provides futsal courses aimed at skill development, showcasing their commitment to the sport. The company has a global employee distribution, with a significant presence in countries like Chile, Spain, and Argentina, reflecting its international reach. Senda's focus on quality gear and community engagement positions it as a relevant player in the sports equipment industry.

18. Bownet Sports

• Website: bownet.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Camarillo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bownet-sports

Bownet Sports, based in Camarillo, California, is a private company that has been operational since 2002. The firm specializes in portable training gear and accessories tailored for various sports, including baseball, softball, soccer, and more. Bownet's product range includes training nets, protection nets, backstops, and various bags designed for athletes and coaches. The company primarily operates through its online store, catering directly to consumers. Bownet is recognized for its innovative approach to sports equipment, emphasizing durability and efficiency in training. Their products are designed to meet the needs of both amateur and professional athletes, making them a trusted choice in the sports community. Additionally, Bownet's partnership as an official supplier for USA Softball highlights their involvement and reputation within the industry.

19. StringKing

• Website: stringking.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gardena, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: stringking

StringKing, established in 2011 in Gardena, California, specializes in manufacturing sports equipment and apparel for lacrosse, baseball, softball, and hockey. The company is known for its high-quality products, including lacrosse sticks and various types of baseball and softball bats. StringKing has also made a name for itself in the custom apparel market, offering garments tailored to individual measurements, which enhances the athlete's experience. Their innovative custom-fit process utilizes advanced algorithms to ensure a precise fit, catering to the unique needs of each customer. StringKing's commitment to quality and performance has earned them a loyal customer base, including both amateur and professional athletes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they shifted production to create cloth face masks, demonstrating their ability to adapt to changing market conditions. This pivot not only helped meet urgent public health needs but also solidified their reputation as a reliable manufacturer in the sports equipment industry.

20. Charly Usa

• Website: charly.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Mexico 20%
• Founded year: 1949
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: charly-usa

Charly Usa, founded in 1949, is an athletic apparel company based in Irvine, California. The company specializes in a broad range of sportswear, footwear, and accessories for men, women, and children. With a focus on quality and affordability, Charly caters to athletes and sports enthusiasts alike. The brand has made significant strides in the soccer market, sponsoring teams such as Atlas, León, and Everton, which underscores its commitment to the sport. Charly operates primarily as a B2C retailer through its online store, allowing it to reach a wide audience. The company prides itself on performance-driven products and customer satisfaction, aiming to meet the needs of its consumers both on and off the field.

21. Bad Boy Brands International

• Website: badboy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bad-boy-brands

Bad Boy Brands International, founded in 1982 and based in San Diego, California, is a sports apparel brand that specializes in alternative sports lifestyle products. The company offers a wide range of equipment and apparel tailored for enthusiasts of MMA, boxing, and kickboxing. Over the years, Bad Boy has built a reputation for sponsoring prominent athletes and events, particularly in the realms of martial arts and combat sports. Their product line includes high-quality gloves, headgear, shorts, and compression wear, all designed to enhance training and performance. Bad Boy has also received recognition in the industry, winning multiple awards for their gear and technical apparel at the World MMA Awards. With a distribution network that spans six continents, Bad Boy is dedicated to supporting athletes and providing innovative products that meet the demands of competitive sports.

22. BRG Sports

• Website: brgsports.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Scotts Valley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Mexico 56%, United States (USA) 44%
• Latest funding: $400.0M, February 2016
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: eastonbell-sports

BRG Sports, Inc., founded in 2006 and based in Scotts Valley, California, is a corporate entity that operates primarily in the sports equipment sector. The company is best known for owning Riddell Sports, a brand recognized for its commitment to safety in sports through the manufacturing of helmets and protective gear. BRG Sports serves a wide array of customers, including sports teams at various levels and educational institutions, ensuring that athletes have access to high-quality equipment designed to enhance performance while prioritizing safety. With a workforce of around 303 employees, the company has a notable presence in both the United States and Mexico, reflecting its operational reach and market engagement. In 2016, BRG Sports secured substantial funding, which underscores its potential for growth and innovation in the sports equipment market.

Sports Equipment Insights: Key Companies in California

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