Reusch acquires Level, pairing glove-making heritage with a growth push

Reusch International has acquired Level Gloves, bringing two established names in winter-sports equipment under one roof. The financial terms have not been disclosed. Level will remain a distinct brand, with its founders continuing to shape future collections alongside Reusch’s product team.

The acquisition joins complementary histories. Founded in Bormio in 1989, Level began with gloves designed for snowboarders, emphasizing wrist protection, warmth and a vivid visual identity. It later expanded into alpine racing, freeride, freestyle and halfpipe, as well as women’s models. Reusch, founded in 1934, has built an international business in winter-sports gloves and goalkeeper equipment.

For Reusch, the deal offers both a broader product portfolio and an opportunity to grow Level through its international organization and retail network. CEO Erich Weitzmann has set a long-term goal of double-digit growth for the acquired brand. The company says it plans to extend Level’s range at both the more accessible end of the market and in premium technical products, while keeping the two brands’ market positions distinct.

The transition is staged. Level’s existing organization will manage the 2026/27 winter season, including replenishment orders, through the end of March 2027. Reusch is taking responsibility for sales and distribution, and plans to build a dedicated team for Level. The first collection developed under the new ownership is for autumn/winter 2027/28, with pre-orders scheduled to begin in December 2026.

The Compagnoni brothers’ continued involvement is intended to protect the product culture that helped distinguish Level. Mauro Compagnoni founded the brand; his brother Davide joined later as the business broadened into alpine skiing and racing. Their role in future collections gives Reusch continuity in design and technical development, while the new owner supplies a larger distribution platform.

"We want to continue growing the Reusch collections while simultaneously developing Level, targeting sustained double-digit growth over time," said Erich Weitzmann, CEO of Reusch International. "Our goal is to make Level a more comprehensive and attractive partner for retail while preserving the freshness, identity, and authenticity of the brand."

Expanded Portfolio & Transition Timeline

Level’s product range—traditionally centered on freeride, freestyle, halfpipe, competitive racing, and dedicated women's models—will be broadened under Reusch to encompass both entry-level options and high-end technical segments.

The corporate transition will unfold gradually to ensure seamless operations for retail partners:

• 2026/27 Winter Season: The existing Level organization remains fully responsible for current seasonal operations and fulfillments through March 2027.

• December 2026: Pre-orders for the first joint collection—Autumn/Winter 2027/28—will open for retail partners.

• Autumn/Winter 2027/28: Reusch assumes full operational responsibility for product development, global marketing, and international distribution.

Supported by Reusch's international logistics infrastructure—including its newly opened distribution hub near Milan—the acquisition sets the stage for both brands to capitalize on growing global demand for premium winter performance gear.

That balance will be the central test of the acquisition. A larger network can help Level reach more retailers and customers, but growth can also put pressure on a brand’s distinctive design and specialist credibility. Reusch’s stated plan is to scale the business while preserving Level’s identity; the 2027/28 collection will be the first visible test of how that ambition translates into products.