Portland apparel startup Omorpho raised another $3 million from investors as it continues to push its weighted workout wear.
This is the third round of funding the company has raised since 2021, and like the previous two it was led by Chicago-based KB Partners. Also in this round is new investor Thirty-5 Capital. Both investors back companies in sports technology and innovation.
The round comes after the company, which launched as direct-to-consumer, opened its first physical pop-up store in the Pearl District.
Omorpho was founded by Nike veteran Stefan Olander and makes a line of workout clothing that incorporates small, weighted spheres into the fabric. The weights add anywhere from 1% to 5% of body mass depending on the garments worn, with the idea that it helps build strength and improve training.
The startup is an example of a growing number of Portland companies that are founded by former Nike executives and employees.
“We are encouraged by the continued interest in Omorpho and welcome Thirty-5 Capital as a major investor,” Olander said in a written statement. “This round of funding will aid our continued expansion and help us more quickly realize our mission to simplify the pursuit of a fit life for all athletes and fitness enthusiasts.”
To date the company has raised $16 million from investors.
Ron Saslow, founder of Thirty-5 Capital said the company’s product and design weren’t the only element that drew the investor to this business.
“The team’s deep knowledge and experience in the industry make them uniquely qualified to create an entirely new category of sportswear,” he said in a written statement.
The funding will go toward marketing and building inventory, the company said in a statement.
Earlier this summer the company noted that online sales doubled from last year and it was that momentum that led to the Portland pop-up store. Prior to that the company has been building its brand recognition through partnerships with celebrity athletes to be “ambassadors.”
