When Was the First Jock Strap Invented and How Did the Athletic Supporter Get its Name?

It is difficult to imagine men competing in today’s high-contact sports without that essential piece of equipment informally referred to as a “jock.”

Officially known as an athletic supporter, the device was introduced in 1874 to protect bicycle riders, who were called “bicycle jockeys,” from hurting themselves on the crossbar after slipping off the pedals while navigating cobblestone streets.

The Bike Jockey Strap was the first jockstrap manufactured in America in 1874.