athletic wear

This fall, Target will launch its first spin-off store concept, based on its C9 by Champion athleticwear brand. Can the cheap chic icon muscle in on an activewear game dominated by trendy and pricey names like Lululemon, Athleta and Under Armour?

Nike is already the global leader in the athletic footwear, apparel and equipment business, and globally is where its future growth lies. Its online sales have surged, and with increasing Internet penetration in emerging markets, Trefis sees more impressive online sales growth ahead.

Nike's fiscal first-quarter profit rose 9% as a surge in emerging-market sales, less inventory and fewer discount sales offset the negative effect of foreign-exchange rate changes. Shares fell in extended trading after the company's sales lagged analyst estimates.

With a logo that's extraordinarily reminiscent of the Swoosh, a focus on basketball shoes and huge deals with big-name NBA stars, sneaker maker Li Ning is starting its battle for America's feet in Nike's own backyard: Portland, Oregon.