When it comes to top-tier cycling and triathlon apparel, Castelli is a name that stands out. Rooted in the rich tradition of Italian craftsmanship, Castelli has been at the forefront of innovation and style since its inception. Founded in the heart of Milan by Gianni Vittore in 1876, the brand initially catered to a diverse clientele, including businessmen, ballet performers, and football teams. Over the decades, Castelli’s focus narrowed and sharpened, becoming synonymous with high-performance cycling gear. The iconic white scorpion emblem inside a red circle is now recognized globally as a mark of quality and excellence in sportswear.

The history of Castelli is a testament to its enduring legacy in the world of cycling. In 1935, Armando Castelli joined Gianni Vittore’s workshop, later purchasing the company and expanding its reach. Under Armando’s leadership, Castelli provided clothing to legendary cyclists like Gino Bartali and Fausto Coppi. The brand’s transformation accelerated under the visionary direction of Maurizio Castelli, Armando’s son, who founded the Castelli brand in 1974. Maurizio’s pioneering use of Lycra for cycling shorts revolutionized the industry, setting a new standard for performance apparel. His innovations continued to shape the brand’s evolution, making Castelli a favorite among cycling champions and teams worldwide.

Today, Castelli’s legacy is not just about its innovative past but also its commitment to future advancements in sports apparel. The brand’s journey from a small Milanese workshop to a global leader in cycling gear is a story of passion, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence. From bold Lycra shorts to sophisticated modern designs, Castelli’s products have consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in sportswear. Understanding the evolution of Castelli’s logos and tags, from the 1990s to the present, offers valuable insights into the brand’s rich history and authenticity. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a vintage clothing enthusiast, knowing these details can help you identify and appreciate genuine Castelli pieces, preserving the legacy of a brand that has defined cycling fashion for generations.

How to tell if Castelli is vintage from the logo

1990s to now Castelli logo

• The logo prominently features a stylized scorpion emblem within a red circle, representing the brand’s iconic symbol.
• The scorpion design is simple yet distinct, with clearly defined legs and pincers, and a solid white body.
• The font used for “CASTELLI” is modern and sleek, with a futuristic, block-like appearance.
• The text is in all capital letters and uses a grey color that contrasts with the vibrant red of the emblem.

1990s to now Castelli logo

How to tell if Castelli is vintage from the tags

The evolution of Castelli tags reflects the brand’s rich history and design changes over the decades. From bold logos to modern sleek designs, these tags provide insight into the era of production and authenticity of the garments. Below, we detail the characteristics of Castelli tags from the 1990s to the 2010s.

Can’t find your tags? Head to our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll identify those vintage labels for you!

1990s vintage Castelli tags

• Features the classic Castelli scorpion logo prominently.
• Bold, serif lettering with “Castelli” text usually in black.
• Tags often include size information, typically in red or white.
• Material tags are usually fabric with stitched edges.

1990s Castelli tags

2000s vintage Castelli tags

• Introduction of modern and minimalist designs.
• Tags feature the scorpion logo in a circular format.
• Use of darker colors and more compact logos.
• Size indicators often on separate smaller tags, maintaining clarity.

2000s Castelli tags

2010s vintage Castelli tags

• Continued use of the iconic scorpion logo, often in a more streamlined format.
• Tags incorporate various materials, including reflective surfaces.
• Modern fonts and layouts, sometimes including collaboration labels (e.g., with Supreme).
• Increased use of color and branding innovation.

2010s Castelli tags