Under Armour’s Glenn Silbert Discusses Innovation

The foundation of Under Armour’s business is innovation, and developing new products and embracing new platforms continue to drive the company’s growth nearly 20 years later. “We’re just getting started,” said Glenn Silbert, senior vice president of men’s and youth apparel and accessories. “This is chapter one of a very compelling story and the opportunities are endless.” Since Under Armour founder Kevin Plank invented a compression-fitting, wicking alternative to the cotton T-shirt for male athletes in 1996, the company has grown into a more than $3 billion brand that has expanded into a range of categories, including footwear, women’s wear, children’s wear and even men’s sportswear. It has also branched out internationally and, more recently, has embraced the whole concept of “connected fitness,” with acquisitions such as MyFitnessPal and MapMyRun. Silbert said Under Armour’s focus on the athlete continues and drives the company to new heights to meet constantly changing needs. “We live and breathe competition and that’s what makes us better,” he said, calling the brand “loud, bold and fearless. It’s our culture and it’s what defines us.” He said that first white T-shirt “created a movement — the idea that apparel could really improve your performance. Others have followed, and today, an

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