Our Story: The Evolution of an Asskicker
How it Started:
Strength on the Track
When I founded Asskicker a decade ago at 40, my strength was fueled by the intense, raw energy of the roller derby track.
Skating under the name Annie Asskicker #90, the brand name was born completely out of instinct. It was inspired by my grandmother, Anne Bateman, who at 90 years old was one of the most badass women I knew—a Scottish war bride, Navy veteran, mother of eleven, and a woman with a wicked sense of humour.
As a 5'11" graphic designer whose weight fluctuates, I was tired of choosing between workout gear that fit well, felt comfortable, or looked good. Backed by my background at Bateman Design Group here in Barrie, Ontario, I decided to design premium, ultra-soft apparel with empowering messages that fit all body types. We used real, local businesswomen as our models because every woman’s body and journey is beautifully unique.
The Evolution:
Finding Strength
in Nature & Art
But life evolves, and so does our strength. 🌿✨
At 51, my days look a little different. You’re much more likely to find me on a quiet hiking trail or lost in a painting in my creative studio.
Through this shift, I realized that being an “asskicker” isn’t just about lifting heavy weights or taking hits on the track—it’s any woman conquering life’s hurdles, summiting a new trail, or pushing through a creative block. 🎨💻🥾
A few months ago, I thought I was closing shop for good. But as I cleared out inventory to make room for my new design and painting studio, I found a way to do it all.
By pivoting to a low-inventory, custom-order model, Asskicker gets to stay open—evolving right alongside me.
What’s Next:
Moving Toward
Natural Horizons
We are stepping away from the harsh gym lights and out into the open air. While we are still deeply committed to premium quality—like our signature screen-printed inside tags that never scratch—our style is shifting to match our new surroundings.
Here is a glimpse of what's coming next:
Thank you for growing, adapting, and summiting these new hills with me. New styles drop soon—stay tuned!
Based in the East End of Barrie, Ontario. Evolving beautifully since early 2017.
"Ten years of community, laughter, and unbreakable strength. From loading up the pop-up trailer to seeing our incredible friends bring this brand to life, every single step has shaped who we are. Thank you for walking, skating, and growing with me through every chapter."
— Julie Bateman, Founder
![Intro to Obstacle Course Racing & Training [Virtual Event]](http://asskicker-ink.com/cdn/shop/articles/Asskicker-Intro-to-Obstacle-Course_Racing-Training.jpg?v=1672949616&width=3840)
