Portland apparel startup Omorpho will expand its national retail reach by getting its weighted workout gear on shelves in Dick's Sporting Goods in some states.
This could mean big returns for the startup founded by ex-Nike veteran Stefan Olander, given Dick’s growth over the last several years compared with similar retailers. From 2019 to 2022, revenue for the retailer grew more than 40% and it recently raised its full year outlook.
“This partnership with Dick's Sporting Goods will help to bring our revolutionary micro-weighted training apparel and G-Vest to a broader audience,” Olander said in a press release. “This collaboration aligns with our mission to empower athletes at all levels to fuel their fitness journeys and achieve their full potential by simply changing what they wear when training."
Dick’s started selling Omorpho’s micro-weighted shirts, pants and vest Jan. 2 in six locations across New York, North Carolina, Texas and the Midwest. The maker has already been selling its products online and at its pop-up store on Northwest 23rd Avenue in Portland.
Omorpho makes workout clothing that incorporates small weights into the fabric that add anywhere from 1% to 5% of body mass, depending on the garments worn. The idea is that it helps build strength and improve training.
In 2023, Omorpho raised $3 million from investors in its third round of funding since 2021. As in the previous two rounds, it was led by Chicago-based KB Partners but included a new investor, Thirty-5 Capital, both of which back companies in sports technology and innovation. To date, the company has raised $16 million from investors.
