Spalding
Chicago sporting goods institution founded by Albert Spalding in 1876. Bold serif Spalding logo with 'Made in USA' marks the 1980s; vibrant purple-and-yellow colour schemes with a modernised logo track the 1990s.
- Origin
- USA
- Founded
- 1876
- Category
- Athletic & Streetwear
- Documented eras
- 4
How Spalding labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
1980s vintage Spalding tags
Bold serif lettering with the Spalding logo prominently displayed Tags often include “Made in USA” indicators.
- Bold serif lettering with the Spalding logo prominently displayed.
- Tags often include “Made in USA” indicators.
- Simple color schemes with black, white, or navy blue as the base colors.
How to spot it
Bold serif lettering with the Spalding logo prominently displayed — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Good vintage demand; 1980s label detail is a key value driver.
1990–1999
1990s vintage Spalding tags
Rectangular tags with a more modern look Introduction of vibrant colors like purple and yellow in the tag design.
- Rectangular tags with a more modern look.
- Introduction of vibrant colors like purple and yellow in the tag design.
- Still prominently features the Spalding logo and often includes size information.
- Some tags might have additional branding like “The Sport Active Company.”.
How to spot it
Rectangular tags with a more modern look — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Moderate collector interest; condition and completeness determine value.
2000–2009
2000s vintage Spalding tags
Continued use of bold, modern fonts and vibrant colors Introduction of “Big Size” indicators on some tags.
- Continued use of bold, modern fonts and vibrant colors.
- Introduction of “Big Size” indicators on some tags.
- Tags often have a more refined and sleek design.
- Some tags include additional slogans like “True to the Game.”.
How to spot it
Continued use of bold, modern fonts and vibrant colors — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Entry-level vintage; value driven by brand recognition and condition.
2010–2019
2010s vintage Spalding tags
Modern layouts with a variety of color schemes and materials Incorporation of the Spalding logo with additional details like “Ladies’ Essential Tee.
- Modern layouts with a variety of color schemes and materials.
- Incorporation of the Spalding logo with additional details like “Ladies’ Essential Tee.
- Tags reflect a broader range of products including athletic and casual wear.
How to spot it
Modern layouts with a variety of color schemes and materials — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Entry-level vintage; value driven by brand recognition and condition.