Gola is a quintessential British brand, synonymous with sportswear and fashion. Established on May 22, 1905, originally as the Bozeat Boot Company in the Northamptonshire village of Bozeat, the brand has a storied history that spans over a century. Initially producing handmade football boots, Gola has evolved into a global icon, renowned for its trainers, track suits, and bags. Despite humble beginnings in a small workshop, Gola’s commitment to quality and innovation has cemented its place in the pantheon of sportswear brands.

The transformative moment for Gola came when the Jacobson Group acquired the company and rebranded it, reflecting its new mission to provide top-notch athletic footwear. This strategic shift allowed Gola to form affiliations with numerous sporting events and teams, bolstering its reputation. The 1970s marked a golden era for Gola, with iconic models like the Harrier and Chase gaining immense popularity, especially across continental Europe. Gola’s licensing under the Electronic Rentals Group further propelled its growth, leading to the creation of the Gola Bag in 1972, which became an international sensation.

Gola’s resilience through the tumultuous periods of both World Wars and its ability to stay relevant through changing fashion trends is a testament to its enduring appeal. The brand saw a significant resurgence in the early 2000s when it was relaunched as a ‘retro’ sports fashion brand, tapping into nostalgia while appealing to a new generation at premium prices. Sponsoring the Alliance Premier League from 1984 to 1986 as the Gola League, the brand reinforced its deep connection to the sporting world. Today, Gola continues to thrive, offering a blend of heritage and contemporary style, proving that it is much more than a fashion symbol—it’s a legacy.

The Epic History of Gola

How to tell if Gola is vintage from the logo

Gola is a British sportswear brand that has evolved significantly over the decades. Recognized for its iconic logos, Gola has maintained a strong brand identity while adapting its logo to fit contemporary trends. Identifying whether a Gola item is vintage can often be achieved by examining the logo used on the product. Here is a guide to help you determine the era of your Gola product based on its logo.

Old Gola logo

• The old Gola logo features a bold, italicized text within a rectangular border.
• The text is thick and stylized with sharp angles, giving it a distinctly retro look.
• The color scheme often includes green and white, which was popular during the earlier decades of Gola’s history.

Old Gola logo

Modern Gola logo

• The modern Gola logo incorporates a sleek and contemporary design.
• The logo includes a stylized wing emblem, which is a nod to Gola’s heritage in sports and speed.
• The text is more modern, with rounded letters and a black and white color scheme.
• Additional text, such as “CLASSICS,” is often included beneath the main logo, emphasizing the brand’s timeless appeal.

Modern Gola logo

How to tell if Gola is vintage from the tags

The Gola brand has undergone significant changes over the decades, reflecting shifts in design trends and manufacturing practices. Identifying vintage Gola clothing can be achieved by examining the tags, which vary in style, color, and information across different eras.

Having difficulty identifying vintage tags or labels? Upload a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll assist you!

1980s vintage Gola tags

• Simple designs with bold, often italicized lettering.
• Tags frequently use a black background with contrasting colors for the logo and text.
• Size indicators are commonly integrated into the main tag design.

1980s Gola tags

1990s vintage Gola tags

• Introduction of more colorful and detailed tag designs.
• Tags may feature additional graphics or slogans, such as “1990 Tour.”
• Size indicators are sometimes presented separately from the main tag.

1990s Gola tags

2000s vintage Gola tags

• Modernized logo with cleaner lines and a streamlined appearance.
• Tags often incorporate the brand’s heritage, such as “Original Soccer Brand – Est. 1905.”
• Size indicators are typically integrated or placed nearby the main tag.

2000s Gola tags

2010s vintage Gola tags

• Contemporary designs with a mix of traditional and modern elements.
• Tags often highlight the brand’s British heritage with the Union Jack flag.
• Various tag styles including loop tags and more detailed graphic elements.

2010s Gola tags