American Athletic Inc

Founded in 1954, American Athletic, Inc. has established itself as an iconic brand with a rich history, driven by innovative ideas and a commitment to excellence in providing AAI products that enhance athletic performance and include high-quality gymnastics equipment.

In 2004, Russell Brands, LLC acquired American Athletic, Inc. (“AAI”), located in Jefferson, Iowa, and consolidated its Spalding® equipment, including basketball systems, volleyball systems, and gymnasium equipment, under one roof alongside AAI®’s gymnastics equipment and cheer products. This strategic pairing of the Spalding® brand with AAI’s 60 years of expertise in athletic performance and manufacturing world-class athletic equipment has enhanced the quality and variety of AAI products. Today, the company remains committed to pursuing perfection in quality and customer service, ensuring timeless dedication and trusted performance.

AAI® products have been the cornerstone of many historic moments in gymnastics history. Our employees' unwavering dedication to the sport and their relentless efforts have empowered some of the most renowned gymnasts to achieve outstanding athletic performance. The iconic AAI® logo has graced the backdrop of several prestigious gymnastics events, including: 1984 and 1996 Olympic Games, 1976 and 2008 Olympic Trials, 1991, 1999, 2003, and 2014 World Gymnastics Championships, 2014 Trampoline and Tumbling World Championships, USA Gymnastics National Championships since 1972, and the American Cup since 1974, showcasing the excellence of AAI products in gymnastics equipment.

Today, AAI is the official equipment supplier to USA Gymnastics®, NCAA® Gymnastics Championships, the YMCA® National Championships, the Nadia Comaneci International Invitational, and the Bart Connor Invitational. Additionally, AAI provides exclusive gymnastics equipment for the USAIGC/IAIGC World Championships and the THSGCA. With a focus on enhancing athletic performance, AAI products are also proudly supported by the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame.

Since the brand’s creation, AAI has experienced exponential growth in both its product lines, particularly in AAI products, as well as in its influence within the gymnastics community. Here are some of the brand’s most important accomplishments: 

- The only U.S. equipment manufacturer to have gymnastics equipment tested and approved by the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique, or FIG, the world’s governing body for the sport. 

- Operating continuously in the same plant in Jefferson, Iowa. 

- Establishing the AAI® Award to recognize the most outstanding senior female gymnast in the US, highlighting athletic performance. 

- Expanding into the cheerleading market, with many new products aimed to help cheer programs around the country. 

- Extending its competitive trampoline products by partnering with Eurotramp® Trampoline to make AAI the exclusive distributor in the United States. 

- Introducing new kid-friendly ninja products while entering the fitness market. 

- Creating a Handstand Obstacle course that connects the gymnastics and fitness worlds.