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Umbro, the globally recognized sportswear brand synonymous with soccer culture,
has carved its legacy over nearly a century. From its humble beginnings in
Manchester to becoming a cornerstone of football fashion, Umbro’s journey is
both inspiring and rich with history. Here, we uncover nine intriguing facts about
the brand’s establishment and origins.
1. Umbro Was Born Out of a Passion for Football
The story of Umbro began in 1920 when Harold Humphreys, a young entrepreneur
from Wilmslow, Cheshire, identified a growing enthusiasm for football in England.
Football was quickly becoming a cornerstone of British culture, and Harold
believed in its transformative power. He envisioned a brand dedicated to outfitting
athletes with high-quality, durable, and stylish sportswear, giving rise to Umbro.
Initially operating under the name "Humphreys Brothers Clothing," Harold
partnered with his brother Wallace to create a company that specialized in
producing soccer uniforms. The name Umbro would come later, but the foundation
was laid with a clear vision to serve the needs of footballers.
2. The Name "Umbro" Has Unique Roots
In 1924, Harold Humphreys officially rebranded the company as Umbro, a shortened
form of "Humphreys Brothers." The name combined the brothers' surname and
reflected their collaborative efforts. This succinct and modern-sounding brand
name was not only memorable but also resonated well with athletes and teams
across England.
Umbro's name was designed to convey unity and innovation, perfectly
encapsulating the spirit of team sports.
3. Umbro Revolutionized Football Kit Design
During the early 20th century, football uniforms were far from functional. Heavy
woolen jerseys and cumbersome designs restricted players' performance. Harold
Humphreys sought to change that. He introduced lightweight, breathable fabrics
that allowed players to move freely on the pitch.
In 1934, Umbro supplied its first major football kit for Manchester City in the FA Cup
final. The lightweight and stylish design contributed to Manchester City's victory,
cementing Umbro's reputation as a game-changing sportswear brand.
4. A Manchester Legacy
Manchester, the industrial heart of England, played a pivotal role in shaping
Umbro's identity. The city was a hub of textile production during the early 20th
century, giving Umbro access to high-quality materials and skilled labor. Harold
Humphreys capitalized on this advantage, ensuring that Umbro's products were
synonymous with quality craftsmanship.
The brand's headquarters in Manchester became a nerve center for innovation and
creativity, fostering a culture that emphasized both tradition and forward
thinking.
5. Umbro and the Rise of Global Football
By the mid-20th century, football was no longer confined to the British Isles. The
sport's popularity was surging worldwide, and Umbro was at the forefront of this
global movement. The brand expanded internationally, supplying kits to teams in
South America, Europe, and Africa.
One of Umbro's most iconic moments came in 1958 when it provided kits for Brazil
during the FIFA World Cup. Although Brazil didn’t win that year, Umbro's
association with one of the most celebrated footballing nations helped elevate its
profile on the global stage.
6. Umbro's Golden Era: The 1966 World Cup
One of the most celebrated milestones in Umbro's history was the 1966 FIFA World
Cup held in England. Umbro supplied kits for 15 out of 16 participating teams,
including England, who went on to win the tournament. This unprecedented
achievement solidified Umbro's reputation as the premier football kit supplier.
The England team's iconic red jersey from the final, emblazoned with Umbro's logo,
became a symbol of national pride and remains one of the most memorable kits in
football history.
7. Family Values Were at Its Core
The Humphreys brothers built Umbro on strong family values, which translated
into a commitment to quality and integrity. Harold Humphreys was deeply
involved in every aspect of the business, from designing kits to personally
overseeing production processes. He believed that creating durable, reliable, and
stylish sportswear was more than just a business—it was a way to celebrate the
sport he loved.
These values have continued to influence Umbro's ethos, ensuring the brand
remains true to its roots even as it adapts to modern trends.
8. Pioneering Commercial Sponsorship in Football
Umbro was one of the first sportswear brands to recognize the potential of
commercial sponsorship in football. In the 1970s, the company began
collaborating with clubs and national teams to develop custom-designed kits. This
approach not only strengthened Umbro's ties to the football community but also
set a precedent for modern sports marketing.
The brand's innovative partnerships extended beyond team kits. Umbro also
designed training gear, footwear, and accessories, further embedding itself into the
culture of football.
9. Adapting to Changing Times
While Umbro's early years were marked by innovation and dominance, the brand
has continually evolved to meet the changing demands of athletes and fans.
During the 1980s and 1990s, Umbro diversified its offerings, introducing lifestyle
apparel and branching into other sports.
Despite facing challenges from emerging competitors, Umbro stayed relevant by
tapping into its rich heritage. Collaborations with designers, influencers, and clubs
helped the brand merge tradition with modernity, ensuring its place in the ever--
competitive sportswear market.
Umbro’s journey from a small family-run business in Manchester to a global icon is
a testament to Harold Humphreys’ vision and the brand’s unwavering dedication
to football. These nine "Did You Know?" facts offer a glimpse into the rich history
of a company that has shaped the sport’s culture for nearly a century.
From revolutionizing kit designs to sponsoring World Cup-winning teams, Umbro
has been a constant presence in football's evolution. As the brand continues to
grow and adapt, its legacy as a pioneer in sportswear and a champion of football's
heritage remains as strong as ever.
