29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Sportswear and outdoor

Bridgedale

United Kingdom

Bridgedale is a technical sock brand from Newtownards in Northern Ireland, where its factory has knitted socks since the First World War. It makes socks for hiking, trekking, trail running, skiing and everyday outdoor use, sold in more than 40 countries.

Facts
FactoryNewtownards, Northern Ireland
Outdoor line launched1993
RangeClose to 100 products
ReachMore than 40 countries
Websitebridgedale.com
Segment
Mid-market
Categories
OutdoorSportswearAccessories
Sales channels
WholesaleE-commerce

What is Bridgedale?

Bridgedale is a specialist outdoor sock brand, operated by Bridgedale Outdoor Ltd, with its factory in Newtownards, Northern Ireland, near Belfast on the edge of Strangford Lough. The site has been knitting socks since the First World War, and the brand's outdoor specific line launched in 1993.

Products and positioning

Bridgedale makes technical socks for walking, hiking, trekking, mountaineering, trail running, skiing and everyday outdoor use. The range also includes waterproof Storm socks, mountain bike socks, liners, children's socks and a Field range for military and tactical use, totalling close to 100 products in about 500 variations.

  • Fit focused construction
  • FusionTech yarn and knitting technology
  • Lifetime and comfort guarantees
  • Wool sourced under IWTO animal welfare guidelines from non mulesed sheep

Distribution

Bridgedale products are sold in more than 40 countries through international distributors and outdoor retailers, alongside the brand's own online store.

Why it matters

Bridgedale is a rare example of a technical apparel brand that still manufactures in the UK. Its specialisation in a single category, combined with in house knitting and a guarantee based proposition, shows how a focused outdoor brand can compete internationally on product performance.

Frequently asked questions

Where are Bridgedale socks made?

Bridgedale socks are knitted at the brand's factory in Newtownards, Northern Ireland.

What does Bridgedale make?

Bridgedale makes technical socks for hiking, trekking, trail running, skiing and other outdoor activities.

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