In Pictures: Rockport’s UK return sees relaunch of 90s-style apparel

Authentic Brands Group-owned Rockport relaunched its footwear, including its ‘Umbwe’ hiking boot - a firm favourite on the football terraces in the 90s - back into the UK market in May 2025 via a licence partnership with Chapters Brand Group.

One year on, Chapters Brand Group has just launched a new Rockport apparel collection in the UK and Ireland, marking the first time Rockport clothing has been available since the 1990s. It is now available on the Rockport website and in 10 UK stores, including Size?.

James Cutmore, Director of Apparel at Chapters Brand Group, said: “As directors of the brand, we grew up wearing it, and the apparel was a huge part of the legacy that we lived, so it was only natural that we would bring it back.

“Key pieces from the SS26 collection include the ‘New England’ logo sweatshirt, which draws directly from Rockport’s archive, and the ‘Walter Harrington’ jacket, reflecting the brand’s terrace heritage influence. RRPs across the collection range from £45 to £210.”

As in the 90s, sweatshirts, knitwear, polos and shirts have a slightly oversized fit, and the Rockport logo features heavily on most pieces.

Rockport’s footwear offer is currently stocked at the likes of Stuarts London, HIP, Size? and EQVVS, with the collection set to expand with new colours and silhouettes added each season.

The introduction of the new apparel line “marks the next phase” of Rockport’s UK relaunch, bringing back a full lifestyle offer rather than just footwear.

Chapters Brand Group works across a portfolio of lifestyle and footwear brands, including Kickers, Lambretta, Osprey London, Original Penguin, CAT Footwear, Merrell Kids and Saucony Kids.

Rockport was founded in Massachusetts, in the US, in 1971, “pioneering the first lightweight, rubber-soled casual shoe”.