Avia is an American footwear and clothing company that specializes in running, yoga and lifestyle activewear, shoes and accessories. Avia was founded in 1979 by Jerry Stubblefield, and is currently a subsidiary of Galaxy Universal.
History
Avia was founded in Oregon in 1979 by Jerry Stubblefield.[1][2] Stubblefield reportedly came up with the word "avia" (derived from the Latin "avis", meaning "bird"[3][4]) while on a jet flight, and decided to use it as a brand name for a sports shoe to suggest aviation. The father-and-son tandem created designs such as the widely imitated cantilever sole, which helped make Avia an industry leader. In 1987, Avia was acquired by Reebok for $180 million,[5]