Giordana

Giordana is a family-owned cycling apparel brand founded by Giorgio Andretta in 1979 and still made in Italy. It produces road, gravel, mountain bike and triathlon clothing as well as custom kit for clubs and teams.

What is Giordana?

Giordana is a cycling apparel specialist that designs and manufactures performance clothing for riders. The family-owned company keeps its production in Italy, in the region where its founder was born, and runs dedicated teams in Vicenza, Italy, and Charlotte, North Carolina.

History

Founder Giorgio Andretta, a former elite cyclist, set up the importing business Gita Sporting Goods in 1971 and became the first North American distributor for several European cycling brands. He launched the Giordana apparel brand in 1979, naming it after his newborn daughter, and opened a fully owned factory in Italy in 1986. He remains involved in product development.

Products and positioning

The range covers bib shorts, jerseys, tights, jackets, vests, base layers, gloves and socks, with named lines such as Silverline, FR-C Pro and NX-G. Giordana also makes MTB, gravel, triathlon and casual collections and produces custom clothing for local and regional clubs. The company describes itself as a leader in sublimation printing.

• Water-based inks and recycling of fabric offcuts
• Supplier to national teams, WorldTour teams and major tours, including the Tour de France
• Past licensing partnerships with Levi's, Disney and Warner Bros.

Why it matters

Giordana is an example of a vertically integrated sportswear maker that combines its own Italian factory with a large custom business, serving both professional racing and amateur clubs.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Giordana?

Giordana was founded in 1979 by Giorgio Andretta, a former elite cyclist, who named the brand after his daughter.

Where is Giordana cycling clothing made?

Giordana clothing is made in Italy, where the family-owned company has operated its own factory since 1986.

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