Fifteen years ago, KIAVA began with a sketch—and a belief that women deserved better from their activewear.
Long before it became a recognized name in activewear, KIAVA lived in the margins of Olivia’s college notebooks. Founder Olivia was an avid runner, training for marathons while working through her third year of university. During her classes, she would sketch designs for pieces she hoped to someday create—athletic wear that was supportive, functional, and actually beautiful.
Olivia brought her sketches to life by having a few samples made. The first time she wore her newly designed sports bra out on a run, she was stopped by multiple women asking where they could get one. It was then that she and her husband made the bold decision to leave college and invest their entire life savings into producing what would become the iconic Endurance Bra. Olivia designed the signature sports bra to deliver high-impact support without sacrificing comfort or style. It quickly resonated with women everywhere—going viral and selling out in just three weeks. That initial investment laid the foundation for growth that has turned KIAVA into an internationally recognized brand.
But the roots of KIAVA’s story run even deeper.
Olivia’s grandmother was a seamstress in Cuba who immigrated to the United States in search of a better life. That legacy—of craftsmanship, resilience, and opportunity—lives on in every piece KIAVA creates today. Because of her, Olivia had the chance to build something of her own and carry that tradition forward in a modern way.
Now a mother of four, Olivia designs from lived experience. Her approach to product isn’t theoretical—it’s personal. From the demands of high-impact training to the realities of postpartum bodies and ever-changing seasons of life, KIAVA pieces are created to support women through it all.
In 2019, KIAVA expanded into swimwear, introducing its now-signature “gym-to-swim” concept—pieces designed to move seamlessly from workouts to water. Since then, the brand has continued to evolve, creating athleticwear for athletes, mothers, beginners, and every woman in between.
With over 12,000 five-star reviews, KIAVA has built a loyal community of women who value both performance and confidence. Every piece is tested on real bodies. In an industry often defined by unrealistic standards, KIAVA stands apart with a commitment to never retouch or edit women’s bodies in its imagery.
Fifteen years in, KIAVA remains rooted in its original vision. Its mission is simple: to empower women to feel strong and confident throughout their health and fitness journey. Olivia continues to create swim and athletic wear that meets women where they are—and moves with them every step of the way.
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