Oregon-based BRANWYN, a brand specialising in women’s performance innerwear, has been named to Athletech News’ Startups To Watch 2025–26, underscoring its pioneering role in creating a new category of women’s activewear and commitment to sustainability.
The annual Startups To Watch list by New York-based Athletech News—a leading B2B publication for fitness and wellness—highlights innovative brands demonstrating creativity, early traction and potential to disrupt their sectors. It covers fitness technology, nutrition, health and active lifestyle, providing industry professionals with insights into companies poised for significant growth. Read more on Athletech News..
The recognition reflects BRANWYN’s early success and innovation in creating a new category of performance apparel. The brand’s proprietary GLDNspun and POWRspun technologies deliver high-Merino content seamless garments designed for comfort, breathability and durability—setting a benchmark for next-to-skin performance wear.
“Being named to Athletech News’ Startups To Watch is a powerful validation of the category we’ve built,” said CEO Deanne Buck. “From day one, we set out to create an entirely new segment in performance apparel—designed exclusively for women and powered by technology we engineered from the ground up.”
Beyond product innovation, BRANWYN emphasises ethical and sustainable practices. The company uses ZQ-certified Merino wool, OEKO-TEX 100 and Woolmark-certified yarns, biodegradable packaging and carbon-offset programmes through EcoCart. Since its founding, BRANWYN has contributed over $220,000 (approximately €210,000) to Empowerment Partners, organisations that connect women and girls to outdoor activities and sports. This accolade reinforces BRANWYN’s growing influence in the performance apparel sector as it expands its reach and continues to champion sustainability and gender equality
About BRANWYN
Founded in Bend, Oregon, BRANWYN produces ethically sourced, naturally sustainable Performance Innerwear designed for active women. Combining ZQ Merino and seamless knitting technology, the brand prioritizes comfort, temperature regulation and health while supporting initiatives that empower women and girls through sport.
About Athletech News
Athletech News is a New York-based B2B publication covering the intersection of fitness, technology, health and wellness. Its annual Startups To Watch list identifies emerging companies demonstrating innovation and potential to reshape their industries, providing key insights for professionals across the active lifestyle sector. Read the full “Startups to Watch 2025–26” list here.
