The mail order sports equipment industry is characterized by retailers offering customers a convenient way to purchase sports gear directly online. Companies typically fall into several categories, including individual specialty shops and larger corporate entities that provide a broad range of products. Innovations in e-commerce technology continue to drive growth in this sector, with many retailers enhancing user experiences through better logistics and personalized services. As sustainability becomes important, some companies focus on eco-friendly practices, such as reselling equipment or using recyclable materials. The trend toward online shopping is likely to remain, shaping the industry's future.

This list showcases a variety of mail order sports equipment companies, including both established names and newer entrants in the market. These companies vary in size, from small firms with a few dozen employees to large corporations employing thousands. They are headquartered in locations across the globe, from the United States to Europe. Founded between the mid-20th century and recent years, they specialize in a broad spectrum of sports gear, including outdoor equipment, athletic apparel, and niche products like tennis and pickleball gear.

Continue reading to explore top mail order sports equipment companies.

Top 25 Mail Order Sports Equipment Companies

1. SidelineSwap

• Website: sidelineswap.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, May 2023
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sidelineswap-inc-

SidelineSwap, Inc. is an online marketplace based in Boston, Massachusetts, that specializes in the resale of sports equipment. Founded in 2014, the company has carved out a niche by enabling consumers to buy and sell both new and used gear across various sports categories, including hockey, baseball, lacrosse, skiing, and more. This platform not only makes sports more affordable and accessible but also fosters a community of athletes and sports enthusiasts who seek cost-effective solutions for their equipment needs. SidelineSwap's commitment to sustainability is evident in its mission to keep gear out of landfills, further enhancing its appeal in the sports equipment market. The company has received venture capital funding, indicating investor confidence in its business model and growth potential.

2. Concourse Sports

• Website: concoursesports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: St. Louis, Missouri, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: concourse-sports

Concourse Sports, based in St. Louis, Missouri, is a private online retailer that specializes in outdoor recreation and sporting goods. Founded in 2012, the company has carved out a niche in the market by offering a wide array of products, including athletic equipment, apparel, and gear tailored for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes alike. Concourse Sports operates several proprietary websites, catering to various segments within the sporting goods industry. Notably, the company acquired Team Express in 2016, which has allowed them to expand their offerings to include baseball, softball, and football equipment through established brands like Baseball Express and Softball.com. Their commitment to customer service and strategic acquisitions reflects their ambition to grow and adapt in a competitive market.

3. SportIT.com

• Website: sportit.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seregno, Lombardy, Italy
• Employee distribution: Italy 100%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sportit.com

SportIT.com, based in Seregno, Lombardy, Italy, is a private online sports retailer that has been operational since 1987. The company specializes in a wide array of sports equipment, apparel, and footwear, catering to various sports such as baseball, cycling, and fitness. With a workforce of around 30 employees, SportIT.com focuses on delivering quality products and a seamless shopping experience through its e-commerce platform. They offer enticing features like free shipping on orders over €59.90 and free returns, which enhance customer satisfaction. The company also maintains physical stores across Italy, further solidifying its presence in the sports retail market. SportIT.com has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model that has allowed it to thrive in a competitive environment.

4. INTERSPORT Group

• Website: intersport.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Bern, Bern, Switzerland
• Employee distribution: France 35%, Switzerland 18%, Greece 6%, Other 41%
• Latest funding: June 2015
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: intersport-international-corporation

INTERSPORT Group, founded in 1968 and headquartered in Bern, Switzerland, operates as a sporting goods retailer with a strong focus on sports apparel, footwear, and equipment. The company serves a broad customer base, from casual athletes to serious sports enthusiasts, through both online platforms and physical stores. With a workforce of approximately 2,035 employees, INTERSPORT has established a significant presence in various countries, including France, Switzerland, and Greece. Their business model emphasizes local ownership, allowing each store to cater to the specific needs of its community. This approach not only fosters customer loyalty but also enhances their ability to provide tailored advice and services. INTERSPORT is committed to sustainability and community engagement, further solidifying its role in the sports retail industry. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without reliance on external financial support.

5. Dunham's Sports

• Website: dunhamssports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Troy, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1937
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: dunham%27s-sports

Dunham's Sports, founded in 1937 and based in Troy, Michigan, operates as a private sporting goods retailer. The company specializes in offering a comprehensive selection of products tailored for sports, outdoor activities, and fitness enthusiasts. With a workforce of approximately 2,320 employees, Dunham's Sports has established itself as a significant player in the sporting goods market. Their online store facilitates convenient shopping, allowing customers to order products and have them shipped directly to their homes. The company features a wide range of categories, including apparel, footwear, and specialized equipment for various sports, catering to a broad audience. Dunham's Sports also actively engages customers through promotional offers, coupons, and a loyalty program, further solidifying its position in the industry.

6. Lafreto

• Website: lafreto.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Aubière, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Latest funding: $1.7M, December 2021
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lafreto

Lafreto, founded in 2007 and based in Aubière, France, is a retail company that specializes in sports and outdoor equipment. The company operates several e-commerce platforms, including Glisshop.com, monsieurgolf.com, and glisse-proshop.com, providing a wide array of products for skiing, golfing, and various outdoor activities. With a workforce of around 130 employees, Lafreto has established itself as a significant player in the online sports equipment market. The company has been proactive in its growth strategy, having recently raised funding to support its international expansion and diversification efforts. Lafreto's commitment to customer satisfaction and its focus on seasonal product offerings demonstrate its understanding of the market dynamics and consumer needs.

7. Decathlon SA

• Website: decathlon.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: France
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: decathlon-sa

Decathlon SA, founded in 1976 and headquartered in France, is a prominent sporting goods retailer known for its wide array of products, including bicycles, clothing, and outdoor equipment. The company operates with a unique model that manages the entire process from design to distribution in-house, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness. With a presence in 79 countries and over 2,082 stores, Decathlon has established itself as a significant player in the global sporting goods market. Their online platform complements their physical stores, allowing customers to conveniently order products from the comfort of their homes. Decathlon's focus on providing affordable sporting goods makes it a go-to destination for consumers looking to engage in various sports and outdoor activities.

8. Decathlon Brasil

• Website: decathlon.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: decathlonbrasil

Decathlon Brasil, founded in 1976 and based in Sao Paulo, is a prominent sports retailer in Brazil. The company specializes in providing a wide array of sports equipment, apparel, and accessories tailored for various activities, catering to both individual sports enthusiasts and families. With a workforce of over 1,700 employees, Decathlon Brasil operates through a network of physical stores and a user-friendly online platform, ensuring easy access to their products. Their commitment to offering affordable and quality items supports active lifestyles, making them a go-to choice for many consumers. The company also engages customers through initiatives like the Clube Decathlon, a loyalty program that offers exclusive discounts and benefits, further solidifying their position in the market.

9. PassaSports

• Website: passasports.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Leiderdorp, South Holland, Netherlands
• Employee distribution: Netherlands 96%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: passa-sports

PassaSports, based in Leiderdorp, South Holland, is a private sports retailer that specializes in offering a comprehensive range of sports equipment and apparel. Founded in 2020, the company has quickly gained traction in the sports retail market, operating various specialized webshops such as TennisDirect, HockeyDirect, RunningDirect, and VoetbalDirect. With a workforce of approximately 138 employees, PassaSports emphasizes personalized customer service, ensuring that sports enthusiasts receive tailored advice to find the right gear for their specific needs. The company operates both online and through physical stores, with locations in major cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their service offerings, including fast delivery and a money-back guarantee. PassaSports also prioritizes sustainability in its operations, collaborating with partners to promote eco-friendly practices in e-commerce. This focus on customer service, specialized offerings, and sustainability positions PassaSports as a relevant player in the sports equipment industry.

10. Decathlon UK

• Website: decathlon.co.uk
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: decathlon-uk

Decathlon UK, founded in 1999 and based in London, is a private retail company specializing in sports and outdoor equipment. With a workforce of over 800 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the sports retail sector. Decathlon UK offers a wide array of products, including clothing, bicycles, and nutrition items, aimed at sports enthusiasts and families alike. Their online platform facilitates direct purchases, making it convenient for customers to access their extensive inventory. The company also emphasizes customer service through initiatives like membership benefits and a buy-back program for used equipment, reflecting their commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction. Decathlon UK operates primarily within the UK, with a small percentage of its operations extending internationally, showcasing its focus on the local market while maintaining a global brand presence.

11. Scheels

• Website: scheels.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fargo, North Dakota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1902
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: scheels

Scheels is a prominent sporting goods retailer based in Fargo, North Dakota, founded in 1902. The company operates a significant number of store locations across the United States, providing customers with access to a wide array of products. Scheels specializes in athletic clothing, footwear, hunting gear, and outdoor equipment, catering to sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Their online platform offers a seamless shopping experience, allowing customers to browse and purchase products conveniently. Scheels is known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, offering a guarantee on all purchases. The company actively participates in community involvement and has established a reputation for supporting local initiatives, further enhancing its standing in the sporting goods industry.

12. Sportshop

• Website: sportshop.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Fe, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Uzbekistan 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sportshop

Sportshop, founded in 2002 and based in Santa Fe, Texas, is a private online retailer specializing in sports equipment and apparel. With a workforce of approximately 44 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the sports retail market, focusing on various sports including football, running, tennis, and more. Sportshop.com prides itself on providing a user-friendly shopping experience, which is complemented by a robust customer service team dedicated to ensuring customer satisfaction. The company has built a reputation for quality products and easy returns, making it a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts. With over 20 years of experience, Sportshop has established itself as a reliable player in the sports equipment industry, serving customers across different levels and ages. Their extensive catalog features more than 21,000 items, showcasing their commitment to offering a wide selection of sports-related products.

13. B2C Distribution

• Website: b2cdistribution.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Southend-On-Sea, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 83%, United States (USA) 9%, France 9%
• Latest funding: $6.6M, July 2017
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: b2cdistribution

B2C Distribution Ltd, founded in 2003 and based in Southend-On-Sea, England, is an e-commerce retailer that specializes in watersports and equestrian equipment. The company operates through its online platforms, including the Wetsuit Outlet and The Drillshed, providing a wide range of products such as wetsuits and equestrian gear. B2C Distribution prides itself on competitive pricing and exceptional customer service, supported by a team of passionate sports enthusiasts. With a workforce of around 47 employees, the company has processed over 2.5 million invoices, indicating a robust operational capacity. In 2017, B2C Distribution secured funding of approximately £6.6 million, which has likely contributed to its growth and expansion efforts. The company has also made strides in sustainability, being the first retailer to introduce wetsuit recycling at scale, showcasing their commitment to environmental responsibility.

14. SportScheck

• Website: sportscheck.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 89%, Canada 10%
• Latest funding: March 2024
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: sportscheck

SportScheck, founded in 1946 and based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a retail company that specializes in sports apparel and equipment. With a workforce of approximately 445 employees, the company has established a significant presence in the sports retail sector. SportScheck operates an online store that allows customers to browse and purchase a wide array of products tailored for various sports and outdoor activities. The company emphasizes customer engagement through promotions and discounts, making it an attractive option for consumers. Additionally, SportScheck is committed to sustainability, as indicated by their initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact. They also provide services such as free returns and the option for customers to pick up orders in-store, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

15. Sierra

• Website: sierra.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Cheyenne, Wyoming, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2020
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: sierra-trading-post

Sierra Trading Post, Inc., founded in 1986 and based in Cheyenne, Wyoming, operates as a retail company that sells a variety of off-price merchandise, including outdoor gear, fitness products, and apparel. The company has established a strong online presence, allowing customers to shop conveniently for a wide array of products tailored to outdoor activities and sports. Sierra's offerings include essential items for camping, fishing, hiking, running, and snow sports, making it a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With a workforce of approximately 1,493 employees, Sierra is positioned to serve a significant customer base across the United States, focusing on providing quality products at competitive prices. The company is part of the TJX Companies, which enhances its operational capabilities and market reach.

16. Tradeinn SL

• Website: tradeinn.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: El Port De La Selva, Catalonia, Spain
• Employee distribution: Spain 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: November 2015
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: tradeinn

Tradeinn SL, based in El Port De La Selva, Catalonia, Spain, is a private equity-owned e-commerce retailer that has been in operation since 1997. The company specializes in a wide range of products, including sports equipment, fashion items, technology, and DIY products. With a workforce of approximately 223 employees, Tradeinn has established itself as a significant player in the online retail space. The company operates multiple specialized online stores, such as Diveinn for diving gear and Bikeinn for cycling equipment, showcasing its commitment to the sports industry. Tradeinn provides a user-friendly online shopping experience, allowing customers to access a vast selection of products from various sports categories. Their focus on customer satisfaction is evident through their policies on returns and secure shopping, making them a trusted option for consumers looking for sports equipment.

17. INTERSPORT Deutschland e.G.

• Website: intersport.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Heilbronn, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1956
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: intersport-deutschland-e.g.

INTERSPORT Deutschland e.G., founded in 1956 and based in Heilbronn, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a prominent sports retailer that specializes in providing a wide array of sports apparel, footwear, and equipment. The company serves a broad audience, from casual sports enthusiasts to serious athletes, offering products tailored for numerous sports activities. With a robust online store, INTERSPORT enhances the shopping experience through features like club membership benefits, which include points accumulation and exclusive discounts. Their commitment to customer service is evident in their policies, such as free returns and fast delivery options. INTERSPORT's focus on digital engagement and personalized shopping experiences positions them as a relevant player in the mail order sports equipment market.

18. 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, founded in 1998 and based in San Francisco, California, is a private retail company that specializes in sports and outdoor equipment. With a workforce of approximately 393 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the market by offering a wide array of products, including snow sports gear, camping equipment, biking accessories, and fitness apparel. Their primary sales channel is an online store, which allows them to reach a broad customer base of outdoor enthusiasts and athletes seeking quality gear for their activities. Sports Basement is known for its competitive pricing and partnerships with well-regarded brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, and Hoka. The company also engages in community initiatives, such as offering rental services for outdoor gear, which further enhances its relevance in the sports equipment industry.

19. Pro Athlete

• Website: proathleteinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kansas City, Missouri, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Algeria 4%, Pakistan 4%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pro-athlete

Pro Athlete, Inc. is an e-commerce retailer based in Kansas City, Missouri, specializing in sports equipment and apparel. Founded in 1987, the company has built a reputation for offering a wide range of products, including baseball bats, gloves, and pickleball paddles. Pro Athlete is particularly known for its online platforms, JustBats and JustGloves, which cater to baseball and softball enthusiasts. In recent years, they have expanded their offerings to include JustPaddles, targeting the growing interest in pickleball. The company emphasizes excellent customer service and strives to create a seamless online shopping experience. Pro Athlete has also been recognized for its workplace culture and community involvement, receiving accolades such as the 2020 Small Business of the Year by the Kansas City Chamber. Their focus on employee wellness and community engagement further solidifies their position in the sports equipment industry.

20. Cabela's

• Website: cabelas.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sidney, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, Canada 11%
• Latest funding: $5.5B, October 2016
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: cabela%27s

Cabela's Inc. is a prominent retail company based in Sidney, Nebraska, specializing in outdoor recreation merchandise. Founded in 1961, Cabela's has built a reputation for providing high-quality equipment tailored for hunting, fishing, boating, and camping enthusiasts. The company operates as a subsidiary of Bass Pro Shops, further solidifying its position in the outdoor retail market. Cabela's not only offers a wide array of products but also engages with its customer base through various channels, including a robust online presence. With a significant workforce and a strong focus on outdoor activities, Cabela's continues to be a relevant player in the industry, catering to the needs of outdoor adventurers across the United States and Canada.

21. Mizuno USA

• Website: mizunousa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Peachtree Corners, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: mizuno-usa

Mizuno USA, founded in 1996 and based in Peachtree Corners, Georgia, is a private sporting goods retailer and manufacturer. The company specializes in a wide array of sports equipment, clothing, and accessories tailored for various sports, including running, golf, baseball, softball, volleyball, swimming, and more. Mizuno USA is dedicated to providing high-quality options for athletes and sports enthusiasts, whether they are competing at a high level or participating in recreational activities. The company primarily operates through its online store, facilitating direct consumer purchases and ensuring a convenient shopping experience. Mizuno USA also emphasizes customer engagement through initiatives like MVP Rewards, which offers exclusive deals and updates to its customers. Their commitment to sustainability and community involvement further enhances their reputation in the sports equipment industry.

22. Decathlon Chile

• Website: decathlon.cl
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chile
• Employee distribution: Chile 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: decathloncl

Decathlon Chile is a private retail company established in 1976, specializing in sports equipment and apparel. With a workforce of approximately 388 employees, the company operates primarily within Chile, offering a wide array of products tailored for numerous sports and fitness activities. Their online platform complements physical stores, providing customers with options for home delivery and in-store pickup. Decathlon Chile emphasizes quality and affordability, making sports accessible to a broader audience. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, focusing on developing products that meet the needs of active individuals while promoting eco-friendly practices. Their extensive catalog includes items for fitness, cycling, running, team sports, and outdoor activities, showcasing their dedication to serving the sporting community.

23. Ski Haus

• Website: skihaus.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Salem, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, Canada 12%
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ski-haus

Ski Haus, established in 1965, is a family-owned retail company based in Salem, New Hampshire. The company specializes in outdoor sports equipment, particularly focusing on skiing and snowboarding gear, as well as patio furniture. With a commitment to quality, Ski Haus offers a wide range of products including skis, snowboards, boots, bindings, and apparel for men, women, and children. They operate three physical stores and maintain a robust online platform, allowing customers to shop conveniently from home. Ski Haus prides itself on knowledgeable staff who are passionate about outdoor activities, providing expert advice and services such as custom fittings and equipment tuning. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and community engagement further solidifies their position in the outdoor sports equipment industry.

24. Ochsner Sport

• Website: ochsnersport.ch
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dietikon, Zurich, Switzerland
• Employee distribution: Switzerland 100%
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: ochsner-sport

Ochsner Sport, founded in 1961 and based in Dietikon, Zurich, Switzerland, is a private retail company specializing in sports and outdoor equipment. With a workforce of approximately 520 employees, the company has carved out a significant niche in the Swiss market. Ochsner Sport offers an extensive selection of products, including clothing, shoes, and gear tailored for various sports, appealing to fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. The company operates a robust online store, providing customers with convenient shopping options, such as free shipping and easy returns. This focus on customer service, combined with a wide product assortment, positions Ochsner Sport as a relevant player in the sports retail industry, particularly in the mail order segment. The absence of reported funding indicates that the company has been self-sustaining, relying on its operational revenue to support its growth and market presence.

25. Tennis Express

• Website: tennisexpress.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Brazil 3%
• Latest funding: May 2021
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tennis-express

Tennis Express, based in Houston, Texas, is a sports retailer that specializes in tennis and pickleball equipment and apparel. Founded in 1993, the company has established itself as a go-to destination for tennis enthusiasts, offering a wide array of products including racquets, shoes, and various accessories tailored for players at all levels. Their online platform allows customers to shop conveniently, and they emphasize quick shipping to enhance the shopping experience. Tennis Express has also been recognized within the industry, having received accolades such as Retailer of the Year from the Tennis Industry in RSI Magazine. The company actively engages with its customer base through social media and provides valuable content, including racquet reviews and player gear updates, further solidifying its role in the tennis community.

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