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

Spyder

Authentic Brands Group · United States

Spyder is a ski apparel brand founded in 1978 by David L. Jacobs in Boulder, Colorado. Owned by Authentic Brands Group since 2013, it makes insulated jackets and technical ski clothing.

Facts
Founded1978
FounderDavid L. Jacobs
HeadquartersBoulder, Colorado
OwnerAuthentic Brands Group (since 2013)
US Ski Team supplierSince 1989
Websitespyder.com
Segment
Premium
Categories
SportswearOutdoorMenswearWomenswear
Sales channels
WholesaleE-commerceLicensing

What is Spyder?

Spyder is a ski and winter sports apparel brand from Boulder, Colorado. It was founded in 1978 by David L. Jacobs, initially as a small mail-order business run from his kitchen, and grew into one of the best known names in ski racing apparel. Its European office is in Baar, Switzerland.

Products and positioning

Spyder makes insulated jackets and other technical ski clothing for men and women. Its identity rests on racing performance and sponsorship of elite teams.

Sponsorships

  • Official supplier to the US Ski Team since 1989
  • Outfitter of the Canadian Alpine Ski Team since 2002
  • Outfitter of the Jamaica Ski Team since 2009

Ownership

Authentic Brands Group acquired Spyder in 2013 and operates it through licensing partnerships. A former licensee, Liberated Brands, filed for Chapter 11 protection in February 2025.

Why it matters

Spyder shows the brand management model applied to technical sportswear, where a heritage name built on athletic credibility is extended through licensees across markets.

Frequently asked questions

Who owns Spyder?

Spyder has been owned by Authentic Brands Group since 2013.

Where is Spyder from?

Spyder was founded in 1978 in Boulder, Colorado, by David L. Jacobs.

Authentic Brands Group: all brands
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