Target Industry Development

Footwear/Activewear/Outdoor Gear/Cycling

Portland offers a wealth of outstanding outdoor recreation—world-class running, hiking, climbing, skiing, and cycling. The Portland region is also home to many of the world’s leading companies in the footwear, activewear, outdoor gear and cycling industries. The Portland advantage:

• More than 20 footwear companies—and nearly 50% of the US athletic footwear market
• More than 20 outdoor gear and active apparel companies
• Established networks of designers, distributors and materials suppliers
• An employment base of 10,000 state-wide
• International leaders such as Adidas, Footwear Specialties Inc., LaCrosse, Nike, Columbia Sportswear, Pendleton Woolen Mills, Leatherman Tools, King Cycle and Kinesis USA, among many others.

The Portland Development Commission, the Portland Regional Partners for Business and the State of Oregon work in partnership with business leaders to promote the growth of our region’s important industries. Love of the industry and the outdoor environment may bring a company here—then our public resources can help it grow.

A Tradition of Outdoor Excellence

Many Portland area companies in the footwear and activewear industries are household names. Pendleton Woolen Mills can trace its history back to 1863. Columbia Sportswear was born in 1938; Gerber Legendary Blades in 1939. Other companies have been established by more recent entrepreneurs. Leslie Jordan, Climb Max, Lifeline First Aid, and Montane Inc. are just a few examples.

A Closer Look

Innovation and commitment to customer service come from companies large and small. In addition to more recognizable firms, we are home to innovative entrepreneurs like those listed below, whose successful enterprises continue to thrive.

Climb Max — Climb Max/Climb Axe is a retailer of all things climbing—ropes, rock shoes, harnesses, headlamps, and items in between. Climb Max is part of a group of companies that distribute products nationwide.

King Cycle Group — Chris King first began to make the precision bicycle headset for which his company became famous in the 1980s. He founded King Cycle Group in 1991, and has continued to earn his strong international reputation. King Cycle Group is a relative newcomer to Portland , having moved from its former California home in 2003.

Leslie Jordan, Inc. — Leslie Jordan designs and distributes customized technical apparel and promotional items for companies and events. Ms. Jordan founded the company in Portland in 1986 by offering unique Tyvek athletic products. The company has produced thousands of designs and has continued to grow.

The Portland Development Commission is committed to helping business and industry create jobs and investment that provide a full range of employment opportunities and economic benefits to all residents of the Portland metropolitan area. A healthy business climate is central to our mission. We strongly support retention, expansion and recruitment efforts in the footwear, activewear, outdoor and cycling industries as a key component of the overall health and economic vitality of the region.

PDC Business Team Contact

Jennifer Nolfi, 503-823-0271, or by e-mail.

• Please see our Footwear/Activewear Fact Sheet.

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