Ellesse sportswear

Founded in Perugia, Italy, in 1959 by Leonardo Servadio, Ellesse is a legendary sports apparel brand that initially gained fame for its innovative skiwear and later for its influence in professional tennis. The brand's iconic 'semi-palla' logo represents a combination of a tennis ball and the tips of a pair of skis, reflecting its dual sporting heritage. Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Ellesse became a global symbol of luxury sportswear, frequently associated with elite athletes and high-fashion leisure wear.

While the brand holds deep Italian roots, its manufacturing operations have expanded globally to meet international demand, with production facilities located across Asia and Europe. In terms of modern ownership, the brand was acquired by the British sportswear giant Pentland Group in the 1990s. Today, Pentland Group remains the ultimate owner, managing Ellesse alongside other major brands like Speedo and Berghaus, maintaining its status as a premier sport-fashion lifestyle brand.