Kelme, officially known as New Millennium Sports, S.L., has established itself as a significant player in the world of sportswear and athletic shoes. Founded in 1963 by brothers Diego and José Quiles, this Spanish company has consistently delivered high-quality products for a variety of sports, including football, futsal, basketball, running, cricket, and tennis. With its headquarters in Spain and additional offices worldwide, including a United States division in Conover, North Carolina, Kelme has maintained a global presence. The brand’s commitment to innovation and performance has been reflected in its sponsorships, including the endorsement of professional athletes such as David James, Josemi, and Daniel González Güiza, and notable partnerships with teams like Real Madrid and RCD Mallorca.

The history of Kelme is marked by significant milestones that have shaped its identity and reputation. In 1979, Kelme made its mark in the cycling world by founding its own professional cycling team, achieving international success and boosting the brand’s global recognition. The 1980s saw Kelme diversifying its product range, venturing into casual footwear and technical sport shoes, including accessories. A pivotal moment came in 1982 with the launch of its first professional soccer boots, setting the stage for Kelme’s future endeavors in sports footwear innovation.

The 1990s were particularly golden for Kelme, highlighted by their sponsorship of the Spanish national team during the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games. This period also saw Kelme securing a prestigious sponsorship deal with Real Madrid C.F. from 1994 to 1998, further cementing its status in the sports industry. Expanding its international footprint, Kelme opened headquarters in the United States and other parts of Europe and Asia, including two factories in Russia by 1997. Today, Kelme’s products are available on all five continents, with a strong presence in over 50 countries, supporting numerous professional teams and athletes worldwide.

How to tell if Kelme is vintage from the logo

Kelme, known for its sportswear and athletic footwear, has undergone several logo changes over the years. The evolution of Kelme’s logo provides insight into the brand’s history and can help identify if a product is vintage. Here is a breakdown of the Kelme logos by era.

1977 to 1990 Kelme logo

• The logo features the brand name “KELME” in a bold, sans-serif font.
• This version does not include any additional symbols or icons, focusing solely on the text.

1990 to 1999 Kelme logo

• The logo introduces the paw print icon alongside the brand name.
• The text “KELME” remains in a bold, sans-serif font, but the inclusion of the paw print adds a distinctive element.

1999 to 2004 Kelme logo

• This version of the logo features a stylized “K” in yellow and blue above the brand name.
• The text “KELME” is presented in a bold, blocky font in red, creating a more vibrant and dynamic logo.

2004 to 2010 Kelme logo

• The logo returns to a simpler design with the paw print icon above the brand name.
• The text “KELME” is in a bold, sans-serif font, emphasizing a clean and modern look.

2010 to now Kelme logo

• The current logo maintains the structure of the paw print icon alongside the brand name.
• The font is slightly more refined and modern, with the text “KELME” appearing in a sleeker sans-serif font.

How to tell if Kelme is vintage from the tags

Kelme, known for its sportswear and particularly its soccer gear, has undergone various changes in its branding and tag designs over the decades. Understanding these changes can help in identifying the era from which a Kelme garment originates. Below is a guide to identifying vintage Kelme items based on their tags from the 1990s to the 2010s.

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1990s vintage Kelme tags

• Tags prominently feature the Kelme paw logo.
• Often include the text “Kelme Fútbol” with bold, blocky lettering.
• Tags might also include a specific team association, such as “Torino Calcio” or “Real Madrid,” indicating official supplier status.

2000s vintage Kelme tags

• Continued use of the paw logo, sometimes with additional graphical elements.
• Tags often feature darker colors and a more modern aesthetic compared to the 1990s.
• Includes size information and sometimes additional branding elements like a “Technic Sponsor” note.

2010s vintage Kelme tags

• Tags are more simplified, with a clear focus on the paw logo and brand name.
• Variety in tag designs, including both loop tags and printed tags.
• Often include detailed size information and manufacturing details, reflecting modern production standards.