Umbro
Umbro Since 1924: British Sportswear, Football Heritage, Terrace Style - Few brands have shaped British sportswear quite like Umbro. Founded in 1924, Umbro has spent over a century at the heart of football culture, producing iconic sportswear, football kits and casual clothing that have transcended the pitch to become part of British style history. Recognised worldwide by the famous Double Diamond logo, Umbro combines sporting innovation, football heritage and timeless design, making it one of the most influential names in sportswear.
Originally established in Wilmslow, Cheshire by brothers Harold and Wallace Humphreys, Umbro grew from humble beginnings into a global sporting institution. From working in the back room of their parents' pub to opening their first factory in 1930, the Humphrey brothers built a business founded on quality, innovation and a belief that style could influence performance. Harold Humphreys famously stated, "If you look smart, you play smart", a philosophy that continues to define Umbro today.
The Story Behind the Umbro Name
The name Umbro is derived from a combination of the founders' surname and relationship. It combines the "Um" from Humphreys and the "Bro" from Brothers, creating one of the most recognisable brand names in sportswear history.
Umbro's innovative spirit was evident from the very beginning. In 1935 the company released its first catalogue, affectionately known as the "Umbrochure", a unique piece of sporting history that reflected the creativity and personality behind the growing British brand.
Umbro, Football History & Global Sporting Success
Umbro's influence on football is unrivalled. Throughout the twentieth century the brand became synonymous with the world's biggest sporting moments and some of the most iconic football kits ever produced.
In 1954, Roger Bannister famously became the first athlete to run a sub-four-minute mile wearing Umbro. Just four years later, Brazil secured their first FIFA World Cup victory in Umbro kits, helping establish the brand on the global stage.
By the time England lifted the World Cup trophy in 1966, Umbro had become the dominant force in football apparel. Remarkably, 15 of the 16 competing teams at the tournament wore Umbro kits, cementing the company's reputation as the leading name in football sportswear.
Today, Umbro remains one of the most celebrated brands in football culture, respected for its rich archive of classic football shirts, training wear and sportswear designs.
From Football Terraces to Britpop Culture
Umbro's influence extends far beyond sport. During the rise of terrace casual fashion and football culture in Britain, Umbro sportswear became a staple of matchday style, valued for its clean design, authenticity and connection to the game.
The brand experienced another cultural moment during the height of Britpop in the 1990s when Liam Gallagher famously wore an Umbro drill top-inspired smock during Oasis' legendary Maine Road performances in Manchester. The image became one of the defining style moments of the decade, helping introduce Umbro to a new generation beyond football supporters.
From football terraces and casuals culture to Britpop and indie style, Umbro continues to occupy a unique place in British fashion history.
Umbro Archive Collection & Retro Sportswear
Celebrating over 100 years of sportswear heritage, the modern Umbro collection pays tribute to the brand's rich archive with a range of retro inspired clothing influenced by classic football training wear, terrace fashion and 1990s sportswear culture.
Standout pieces include iconic retro drill tops, archive track jackets and vintage inspired sportswear that capture the spirit of classic British football style. Combining authentic detailing with contemporary fits, Umbro Archive styles blend football heritage, casuals culture and retro sportswear aesthetics for a timeless look both on and off the terraces.
Whether you're a fan of football history, Britpop fashion, terrace casual style or classic sportswear design, Umbro remains one of Britain's most iconic and influential clothing brands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Umbro
Who founded Umbro?
Umbro was founded in 1924 by brothers Harold and Wallace Humphreys in Wilmslow, Cheshire, England.
What does Umbro mean?
The name Umbro combines the "Um" from Humphreys and the "Bro" from Brothers.
Why is Umbro famous?
Umbro is renowned for its football heritage, iconic sportswear designs and its role in some of the most important moments in football history, including Brazil's 1958 World Cup victory and England's 1966 World Cup triumph.
Is Umbro associated with Britpop and terrace fashion?
Yes. Umbro became closely linked with terrace casual culture and gained further recognition during the Britpop era when Liam Gallagher famously wore Umbro-inspired sportswear on stage.
What is the Umbro Archive Collection?
The Umbro Archive Collection reimagines classic football training wear and sportswear styles, including retro drill tops, track jackets and archive-inspired casual clothing influenced by the brand's rich sporting heritage.
