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The high that marked a record year for the U.S. athletic foot wear industry in 2021 turned into a hangover in 2022. Year-over-year sales revenue declined by six percent from January through September 2022, compared to a 28 percent increase at this time last year, according to the Retail Tracking Service from NPD. One bright spot is that 2022 sales remain above pre-pan demic 2019 levels.
There are numerous rea sons for the change of pace in 2022. While there was a lot of Federal Government stimulus money hitting the market in 2021, there has been none in 2022; we are living under inflation and recession fears this year; and supply chain issues that appeared in late 2021 are still playing out.
Additionally, and per haps most importantly, brands that aggressively
grew their direct-to-con sumer (DTC) businesses at the expense of their wholesale partners have been unable to make up for all those retail sales. In fact, through the lens of NPD’s Consumer Tracking Service, which accounts for sales in the DTC and off-price channels, footwear sales revenue declined by one percent from January through September 2022, versus last year. The shift to DTC is yet to bring growth to the industry.
The running shoe market has been par ticularly affected by this failure of brands to compensate for the discontinued retail busi ness. Running shoe sales revenue in 2022 through September declined by eight percent and unit sales were also down. Comping against 2019, sales are up five percent, which is well below the overall market rate. It will
prove challenging for brands to offset all the lost business.
It is also telling to look at the women’s side of the running shoe business.
Running footwear is one category where there is rela tive gender parity. While many brands profess to focus on their women’s business, sales are down by six percent compared to 2021. The fact that most women’s running shoes are based off the shoe lasts of men’s shoes has not helped sales.
Let’s hope that brands get the message and will refocus their efforts to make shoes that are designed for the shape of a woman’s foot, which would reap positive sales benefits.
There are, of course, running shoe brands that are thriving in today’s market. Brands with a clear point of view, unique product offerings and a more conservative DTC strategy are
outperforming.
We are in the middle of a significant retail reshaping of running shoe assortments. These changes are not trivial, nor are they transitory. Shoe walls look much different today than they did before the pandemic and will continue to be so.
– is a sure way to lose new consumers.
The average selling price for a pair of men’s running shoes this year through September was $76.40, an increase of 22 percent from the same ninemonth period in 2019. This growth is partly due to higher supply chain and input costs, but it is also a function of certain brands abandoning the opening price cat egories that have been a reliable sales driver. It is likely that some of the decline in running shoe sales is due to this sharp increase in average retail pricing.
By exploring the white spaces, pursuing areas of improvement and harnessing sales data to proactively inform decisions, brands can effectively readapt for today’s change of pace.
levels announced by footwear companies, we can expect the percentage of shoes on sale to grow rapidly in the coming months.
This increased promotional level will erode the strong profit gains achieved during the pandemic. In the first half of 2022, more than 40 percent of all running shoes were sold on sale, down from 56 percent in 2020. In the fourth quarter that figure will surely be higher than historic levels.
The pandemic also brought new participants to running as an activity; however, many brands and retailers did not adapt to these new runners. Specialty sports retailers have instinctively focused on pinnacle consumers highly experienced in the activity — and the owners of spe cialty shops also tend to be at this level. That’s why many consumers find shopping at sport specialty outlets to be intimidating. Making cus tomers uncomfortable – or selling them a product that is above their skills and needs
An abundance of inventory is another industry concern. All public foot wear brands have announced inven tory levels will be significantly elevated this year, which will force brands to be more pro motional and could drive sales, albeit unprofitably.
In turn, brands will be up against those unprofitable, elevated comparisons next year, which will be difficult to offset. At one point 2023 was thought to bring a return to “normalcy,” but it is now clear that this wild ride is not over yet.
Second quarter sales figures indicate an increase in ath letic shoes sold on sale. Given the out-of-control inventory
All in all, the outlook for the U.S. running shoe market appears to be challenged from both the topline and bottom line. But the market continues to be populated with opportunities and an expanded customer base.
By exploring the white spaces, pursuing areas of improvement and harness ing sales data to proactively inform decisions, brands can effectively readapt for today’s change of pace. n
The referenced data comes from The NPD Group’s monthly point-of-sale foot wear database. It is collected from the athletic specialty and sporting goods, shoe chain, premium and mid-tier channels. It does not include direct-to-consumer (DTC), run specialty or off-price sales.
Way back in 2006, Nike tried something particularly novel. In its run-specific Bowerman Series, Nike debuted a top-of-the-line neutral training shoe called the Vomero. But in an inter esting twist, the original Vomero existed solely in the men’s catalog.
On the women’s side, Nike produced a near identical model it named the Percept. While the $110 Percept featured many of the same ultrabouncy, uber-plush features as the Vomero, it did veer from its male counterpart in a few subtle ways. Most nota bly, the Percept’s upper included an expandable mesh in the forefoot to deliver a more forgiving fit and accommodate problematic bunions, an issue more prevalent among females.
Noble as Nike’s inten tions might have been to bring a women’s-specific performance running shoe to market, the Percept was ultimately a short-lived experi ment. The challenge, a former Nike employee tells Running Insight,
was that a women’s-only shoe, even a near-replica of a men’s model, required The Swoosh to essentially market two different shoes. It became messy, ineffi cient and costly.
The following year, Nike ditched the Percept name and produced a men’s and women’s model of the Vomero 2 even as some of the same subtle design differences persisted.
These days, footwear brands such as Under Armour and Puma – you can even add Saysh, a newcomer helmed by Olympian Allyson Felix making its debut at The Running Event this month – to that list of women’s only shoe designs. All are giving the women’s-only running shoe another shot, developing singular models thoughtfully designed for the female foot and telling female consumers – boldly and loudly – they have a shoe for them.
Given that women rep resent nearly 60 percent of all race finishers and desire relevant solutions, it’s an intriguing bet by the brands to drive differentia tion, conversion, loyalty and brand equity.
When Puma decided to reenter the running space,
which The Cat did with a bang last year, it did so eager to understand and appease female consumers, in particular. If that meant eschewing tradition and engrained business practices, so be it.
“If we were going to attack running, then we needed to be more inclusive of women and their needs,” Puma footwear innovation manager Laura Healey says.
That mindset spurred an ambitious question: What if we make a shoe exclusively for women?
It was an intriguing idea. After all, the “shrink-it-andpink-it” philosophy well established in running foot wear design has long been criticized for falling short on catering to women’s needs and addressing a few proven anatomical differences, such as narrower heels and wider forefoots.
“We know women aren’t scaled down versions of men, yet that’s how we designed shoes for them,” Healey says.
Around the same time, Under Armour employees engaged in similar conver sations in and beyond its Baltimore-based headquar ters. The brand began first moving down this genderspecific biomechanical path in its basketball footwear lineup, unveiling a women’s specific basketball shoe called The Breakthru in September 2020. The Breakthru’s quick success on the hardwood underscored the powerful science and emo tion of making footwear for her and inspired movement toward
a female-specific running shoe.
“We realized the compro mises we were making in co-gendered product and we wanted to give women choice,”
says Katie Lau, the global product director of train and recovery footwear at Under Armour.
After a year of scanning
heel, a lower instep and a wider forefoot as well as a wider base and a new Nitro foam designed to be slightly firmer and deliver a pinch more stability.
“The Run XX allows us to learn so much we can bring into other shoes, such as the last, fit and foams,” Healey says, adding that Puma’s goal moving forward is to develop both men’s and women’s footwear models in tandem. “There are aspects of footwear we can start to
tune so we’re bringing more thought to all of our women’s footwear.”
It’s a learning process, both Healey and Lau acknowledge, but an exciting development for women in 2022, the 50th anniversary year of the land mark Title IX legislation that unlocked widespread competi tive opportunities for women in sports.
“It’s positive other brands are joining us and investing in this space because women deserve it,” Lau says. n
When Saucony began developing a new max-stack model to debut in its Fall 2022 performance running shoe lineup, the Massachusetts-based brand thought it had a winner until it held samples of the women’s size 7 model in hand.
“The proportions were completely off and it didn’t look right at all,” Saucony senior product line manager Jessie Peterson recalls.
So, Saucony went back to the proverbial drawing board and re-started the project. This time, though, Saucony took an unconventional approach and began the design process by attacking the women’s point of view first. The brand recalibrated its data and pattern creation to start with the women’s size 8, not the customary men’s size 9. With that twist, Saucony planned to get the proportions correct on the women’s side. Only then would it scale up to the men’s size.
It’s an example, Peterson says, of a new muscle the industry is learning to flex and a counter to the pink-it-and-shrink-it philosophy the industry has long followed.
“Just because this is the way it’s always been done doesn’t mean it leads to the right
product for the female foot,” Peterson says.
Similarly, Skechers started with the women’s design when developing the Go Run Persistence, a shoe it introduced at The Running Event last year.
The neutral running shoe features key attributes Skechers found women consistently identifying as important: soft touch points,
throughout the day. The Persistence embraces those sought-after features with an Ultra Flight midsole, a carbon-infused forefoot H-plate, a Goodyear outsole and a no-frills aesthetic.
“Skechers has always been a brand that resonates strongly with women, so we felt it was essential to listen to female runners and understand what they were looking
The Go Run Persistence women’s-only shoe from Skechers addresses design and perfor mance needs identified by female runers: soft touch points, additional collar padding and a plush ride among them.
additional padding on the collar and tongue area, step-in comfort, a plush ride, a durable outsole and versatile uppers capable of being worn
for in a premium running shoe,” Skechers senior director of product development and merchandising Keith Shelton says. n
From its education sessions to the expo hall, from off-the-cuff conversations with strangers to earnest discussions with famil iar industry friends, The Running Event provides running store leaders a plethora of ideas they can use in their stores.
Here, five retailers who attended TRE 2021 in Austin, TX, share one impor tant thing they learned at the event and subsequently incorporated at their retail store to enhance the business.
LYNN BOURQUE
“Two of my key staff members, Ben and Greg, went to Holly Wiese’s workshop and they came out energized with ideas, advocating that we could and should look at the store’s layout through a dif ferent lens.
“When we got back to Toronto, we dug right in and kept floating back to Holly’s ideas about creating flow in the store. We looked at everything with a critical eye — how customers were entering our store, where specific merchandise sat and if there was a more optimal place for our fitting room.
“We had benches situated around the
shoe wall, but they were almost creating barriers to access. We reconfigured the benches and even removed some. We relocated accessories. We also stopped
receiving boxes on the showroom floor. We take everything to the basement now, which we’ve also improved with better lighting so it’s a more comfortable place
Powering over 500 million pairs of insoles every year for more than 400 leading footwear brands. What’s in your shoes?
then give this to the customer in a PDF format, so they can take it to their coach or a medi cal professional.
“We weren’t looking for something like this when we were at TRE, but it has definitely enlivened and improved our fitting experi ence. Customers can do it through our regular in-store fit process or via appointment and we have many regularly doing side-by-side compari sons with shoes to make more educated selections. Having this technology in our store has brought people to us and given us an edge.”
Catloth: “We were talking to a group who owned three run shops in Wisconsin and they told us customers trying on shoes in their stores wear only the store’s socks. And then they told us that their lowestperforming store was selling nearly one sock for every one shoe, which is a great figure for
any store. And that was their weakest store by that metric. We employed that idea here and it’s resulted in moving a lot more socks, particularly Feetures.”
Jenkins: “Even more, that conversation was the catalyst for us to be a more holistic running store, not just a shoe store. It encouraged us to think about how we can be more proactive about introducing the solutions we have in our store to customers, especially those items staring us in the face we know can make their run more enjoyable.”
for our staff. Now, there’s even less clutter on the sales floor. We have director’s chairs we can pull out if additional seating is needed and we’re working on a custom-made reception counter that better fits the space.
“This effort created a more open, inviting flow and we think it’s been beneficial. People like airy, unclut tered spaces and we have that now.”
“In early February, we started using a gait analysis system we stumbled upon while walking the trade show floor on the last day of TRE. The technology provides over 10 biometric figures to help us improve runners’ and walkers’ gaits and gives us objective data you can’t see with the naked eye, such as angles of pronation or supination. We
“We weren’t looking for something like this when we were at TRE, but it has definitely enlivened and improved our fitting experience.”
Pam Howe, Howe2RunInspired by a roundtable conversation with fellow running retailers at The Running Event last year, J. Jenkins (left) and Grant Catloth began employ ing strategies to boost sock sales at Ad Astra Running in Lawrence, KS.
“Before COVID-19, every one knew everyone — our staff, vendor reps and so on. Post-COVID, though, there was so much change and so many new faces.
“I had conversations with other retailers at TRE about staff structures and returned home thinking about titles and different staff members’ roles in our stores. I listened to my staff talk about why they left positions elsewhere and the lack of growth opportunities was something I heard time and again.
“It led me to establish clear roles at John’s like director of marketing and lead buyer — and then appoint the right people to those positions. Now, the outside people know who’s in charge of a given area when they come calling and recognize that individual has authority in that particular area
“Now, the outside people know who’s in charge of a given area when they come calling and recognize that individual has authority in that particular area of our business. The titles have given our staff extra credibility, but, more than anything, ownership of their work. They feel more invested in their role, which benefits them and our stores.”
Melody Marshall, John’s Run/Walk Shopof our business.
“The titles have given our staff extra credibility, but, more than anything, ownership of their work. They feel more invested in their role, which benefits them and our stores.”
“I saw that the U.S. retailers are very, very good at commu nity runs and that was a place where I learned we could be doing so much more to build energy and connections. Though we had a big Monday run club at 7:30 p.m. after the shop closed, we started a Sunday morning breakfast run in September with post-run coffee, donuts and the like.
“As a running specialty retailer, the customer commu nity is so important because those fans also buy products in-store.” n
The brands that will be on the shelves of run specialty stores in 2023 will be on display at The Running Event 2022. The selection includes advances in running footwear, socks and apparel, plus an impressive assortment of essential accessories ranging from hydration packs and nutrition products to sunglasssses, massage rollers and on-the-go storage solutions. See them all and more during #TRE22, Nov. 29-Dec. 1, 2022, at the Austin Convention Center, Austin, TX. Read on to get a running start on the excitement!
Brooks’ Catamount 2 trail footwear still features DNA Flash midsole, but now includes a SkyVault propulsion plate for uphill runs/rock shield and an air mesh upper with an hydrophobic outer layer and soft inner layer of 100 percent recycled polyester fibers. MSRP: $170
The Superblast, the latest entry in ASICS’ Blast series, creates a lightweight and responsive ride. Its upper construction features an asymmetric woven design and the midsole features a combination of FF Blast Plus and FF Blast Turbo cushioning. MSRP: $220
361 CENTAURI
361’s Centauri features its new Engage midsole to provide a lighter package with better resiliency, durability and recovery. During loading displacement, deformation of the foam occurs and gets back to its most natural form at a rate that helps maintain running economy and efficiency. MSRP: $130
The Pure Trail trail running shoe from Craft features a full Cr Foam midsole, which provides cushion and stability with reduced weight. The shoe comes with an exposed rock plate, delivering stability and midfoot protection. In addition, the shoe sits on a full traction outsole designed for a wide variety of offroad use. MSRP: $179.99
Puma’s Deviate Nitro 2 features a full-length layer of Nitro Elite foam at the midsole for cushioning and propulsion. A re-worked PWRPLATE acts as a lever for energy transfer at toe-off. MSRP: $160
SOULSTRIDE
Soulstride Ultra launches in 2023 featuring new technology from Adidas Terrex. Designed to maximize comfort over longer distances, this shoe introduces Light Boost, featuring a 32 percent weight reduction and four percent more energy return compared to the original Boost. In addition to midsole tech the Soulstride is wrapped with Continental rubber for durable traction. MSRP: $190
Xero’s Mesa Trail WP is a fully waterproof – with a seamsealed inner bootie and gusseted tongue – version of its trail runner. MSRP: $139.99
The Mach X by Hoka is a trainer designed to make fast miles easier with the comfort and support of the Mach and speed elements of the Rocket X 2. MSRP: $180
Skechers GOrun Ride 11 is a lightweight, neutral, responsive, breathable and cushioned daily training shoe with Skechers‘ Hyper Burst Ice dual-density Hyper Burst technology, plus the new Skechers Arch Fit removable sock liner made with TPEE HB material, for podiatrist-certified arch support, cushioning and resiliency. MSRP: $120
Thundercross is Salomon’s new trail shoe, equipped with aggressive 5mm lugs to tackle any terrain, no matter how tricky or technical. MSRP: $140
Topo’s Phantom 3 is a high-cushion, neutral trainer built for daily miles, long runs and walking. The recycled engineered mesh upper features increased breathability and delivers a secure and comfortable fit. The 33x28 mm platform features a dual-density midsole with Topo Athletic’s new ZipFoam formula. MSRP: $145
The WK400 is made for walking. Featuring Keen.Curve technology, it’s the brand’s first shoe designed to create a rolling feeling and forward momentum. MSRP: $165
The Vimazi Z50 is tuned and designed for running between 7:158:45 minutes per mile. Optimized for quickness and max energy efficiency at pace with a slightly wider platform for enhanced stability at speed. Featuring a light mesh upper that is strategically placed using rubber for grip and agility platform. MSRP: $175
The VJ Ultra 2 long-range trail racing shoe features a durable and breathable mesh upper that is a mix of DuPont Kevlar fibers and nylon. The full length rock plate protects from trail terrain and creates more stability and durability from the additional rubber in the outsole under the toe box. MSRP: $140
built for long and fast runs on technical terrain. The mesh upper offers a breathable and secure fit and the midsole features Topo Athletic’s new ZipFoam formula for a softer and lighter underfoot experience. MSRP: $150
The Wave Rebellion Pro is the result of Mizuno’s Smooth Speed Project, aimed at helping marathon runners by integrating its revolutionary materials into the new shoe. Featured materials include Mizuno Enerzy Lite and Mizuno Enerzy Lite+ midsole foams, a carbon-infused nylon Mizuno Wave plate and a new geometric midsole design. MSRP: $250
The Spin Planet is Scarpa’s new sustainable cushioned trail running shoe — made with a 100 percent recyclable breathable upper, in addition to a midsole, outsole and footbed made from recycled content.
The Falcon Jacquard Evo GV is a midheight boot that utilizes a one-piece woven upper that eliminates all stitching from that portion of the boot to reduce wear areas or hot spots created by overlapping fabrics. MSRP: $240
The Naked T/r trail race shoe is laceless, lightweight and nonslip with stitched insoles to keep feet firmly in place. The knit cuff helps to keep debris out while also providing additional ankle support. MSRP: $289.99
Lowa’s Merger GTX Mid features a single-piece upper of digitally-printed rip-stop nylon with a 3D molded cuff, speed lacing with integrated pocket and patented PU Monowrap stability frame with toe bumper. Featuring a durably waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex lining. MSRP: $230
The Tahoe by Jambu is a water-ready active style featuring a non-slip traction outsole, bungee cord lacing, breathable mesh and a comfortable EVA insole that contours to the foot’s natural movement. MSRP: $59
Inner drive. It keeps you going when all that’s ahead is an endless stretch of asphalt. Enter Currex insoles. Highly customized and available in three arch profiles, they’re clinically proven to help prevent injury, enhance performance, and provide comfort. But most importantly, they’re engineered to keep you running. Learn more at currex.us
Anita Fraser
3:23 Marathoner
Velous Footwear’s La Jolla slide features an adjustable upper to accommodate foot swelling and feet of all proportions. MSRP: $80. The Skyline sneaker features a seamless one-piece upper and TriMotion technology. A multi-purpose sneaker will make foot health part of everyday life. MSRP: $110
Tread Labs’ Recovery Sandals come in two styles — the Albion (in photo) comes with a backstrap, and the Covelo, a slide sandal. Both styles have arch support and an antimicrobial sockliner and knitted uppers. MSRP: Albion, $120; Covelo, $110
Oofos’ OOmg Sport recovery shoe is designed on the foundation of OOfoam technology and patented footbed geometry. The midsole is paired with a four-way stretch FibreFlex upper to provide mobility in a protective, closed toe silhouette. MSRP: $139.95
Lightfeet Arch Support flip flops are designed for post-sport wear to help relieve muscle fatigue, sore tired legs and plantar fasciitis. MSRP: $39.95
Vionic Recovery Sandals are unisex featuring dual density cushioning to provide massaging relief after sports, post-surgery or any taxing physical activity. MSRP: $79.95
Come see what 100 years of shoemaking expertise looks like and how we’re moving forward into our next century.
The La Sportiva Jackall II BOA features a high-cushion midsole with Infitnitoo technology, while the FriXion XT rubber sole provides traction and grip. The protective and breathable upper with double BOA Fit System allows for a customized fit and quick adjustments. MSRP: $185
The MTL Long Sky 2 from Merrell features an internal bootie for locked-in fit atop FloatPro Foam, a midsole designed to withstand the changing elements with quickdry construction. The Vibram MegaGrip outsole offers traction. MSRP: $140
Veja’s Impala is lightweight, agile and stable and features ecologically sourced materials such as sugarcane, Amazonian rubber, rice waste, recycled plastic and Ricinus oil. The shoe also offers breathability thanks to its engineered mesh, which alternates its size of stitch to promote air exchange. MSRP: $150
The Flux AdaptRun is a zero-drop, natural-shaped toe-box daily trainer designed for the athleisure running market. Made with recycled AdaptKnit Compression Upper and AdaptFoam Textured insole. MSRP: $139.99
Topo’s MTN Racer 3 is a performance-tuned trail runner and racer built for long and fast runs on technical terrain. The mesh upper offers a breathable and secure fit and the midsole features Topo Athletic’s new ZipFoam formula for a softer and lighter underfoot experience. MSRP: $150
Pink Bananas 1.5-inch Split Shorts by ChicknLegs are made with a lightweight fabric, soft liners, comfortable waistbands and dozens of funny printed designs. MSRP: $35
Sky Manufacturing has added EcoTech fabric to its collection for retailers to fully private label with their own branding. EcoTech is available in four new apparel pieces in the Spring/Summer 2023 collection. MSRP: $35-$40
Recover Brands’ Sport Elite features micro waffle knit technology, dries fast, wicks moisture and drapes with stretch to keep its shape while providing full range of motion. MSRP: $30–$40
The 2UNDR Flow Shift has an ultralight polyester/modal blend and features the patented Joey Pouch to support runners’ equipment. The material provides quick-dry performance. MSRP: $35
The Zap 2 breathable performance jacket is equipped with Zap Tech reflective accents and breathable water-resistant fabric. It offers full garment illumination through millions of microglass lenses that light up at night. MSRP: $209.99
Brooks’ High Point Waterproof Jacket features DriLayer Seal fabric to deliver breathable weather protection and semi-fitted construction for lightweight maximum range of motion. MSRP: $198
Path Projects’ Muir laser-cut cap is breathable and has 94 2mm holes on the top and side panels. Available in black, grey and navy. MSRP: $30
Vuori’s Fleet Pant is made from a performance four-way stretch knit made with recycled material and is quick-dry, moisture wicking, lightweight and breathable, Hollywood waistband construction with interior brushed elastic and drawcord, side seam and back zip pockets. MSRP: $64–$128
Anita’s Momentum 5529 Sports Bra comes in a new color – Lime Light. The metallic eyelet fabric has a honeycomb look and the inner lining is made of moisture-wicking terry cloth. The seamless, extra-soft cups reduce breast movement and ensure Anita Sweat Management without overheating or overcooling. MSRP: $79
The Gametime sports bra from Handful features supportive, stretchy fabric that is soft, yet is made from recycled water bottles. An extra wide support band prevents chafing and adjustable stretch straps create support along with center front ruching and removable pads that offer shaping. MSRP: $62
Allyson Felix Olympic Gold Medalist Visit the Saysh Booth
Janji’s Thermalrunner Insulated Jacket features three zip pockets and 40g PrimaLoft Gold insulation along with weather- and water-resistance. Both men’s and women’s versions feature a sea drift print by the Japanese artist Keiko San. MSRP: $148–$168
Pressio’s Men’s Elite Singlet contains no chemical additives, four phase moisture management, a high filament yarn count and dual filament grading. This singlet features an ecotech vent, rear panel ventilation and enhanced moisture management. MSRP: $55
Alwrld’s Alrn Merino Zip Hoodie is thermoregulating to keep body temperature consistent during and post-workout, with a hidden no-bounce media pocket and thumbholes for fit and warmth, along with reflective bungee toggles for hood adjustment and visibility in low light. MSRP: $168
Rabbit’s Dawn to Dusk Jacket is filled with eco-thermal insulation partially made from recycled coffee grounds and lined with High Country Flannel. MSRP: $150
The Lined Performance Short from Definite Articles has a breathable liner and soft-knit shell. The short has a blend of stretch and compression designed for any run. MSRP: $78
The Athletic Shorts with Liner are made with two traditional side pockets and a vertical zipper pocket on the right hip to fit an iPhone. MSRP: $55
Lume Six offers two styles – one medium impact and one high impact sports bra (in photo) – offering women a versatile essential garment. Premium Italian woven fabric offers the durability at lightweight consistent compression. MSRP: $100
BANANA HAT
Sprints’ lightweight, vented and banana patterned running hat allows retailers to (fruit) juice up their headwear line-up. MSRP: $32
POCKETWEAR
The Level 3 Pursesuitz Pocketwear Tank Top is made of recycled, antimicrobial and moisture-wicking spandex fabric and can be worn alone or as a base layer. The tank top has a built-in sports bra in place.
MSRP: $64
BIG BANG LITE HANDBAND
Junk’s Big Bang Lite headband is Made in the USA and combined with its technical T-shirt fabric, making it comfortable, sweat wicking and nonslip. MSRP: $16.99
Buff’s CoolNet UV Slim Headband is made from recycled plastic bottles, with soft, silicone grips hidden on the inside to keep the headband in place. MSRP: $16
AER SPLASH HAT
AER Splash is Alter Ego’s running hat with water repellent technology, an inside runner pocket and lightweight design. MSRP: $49
rnnr’s Nightrider Distance hat has a fully reflective front panel to help runners be seen. It has a clean, basic, black look in daylight that becomes a reflective silver when light hits it.
MSRP: $40
The Boco Gear Elite Hat with Laser Cutting is the newest trend in tech savvy style. Updated laser cut side and rear panels help the heat escape to keep runners cool. Constructed with a lightweight bill that mimics that of a baseball cap for greater sun and glare protection. MSRP: $29.99
The Meridian Thermal Beanie from Sunday Afternoons is made from lightweight, fourway-stretch, breathable Italian fabric. This double-layer microfleece beanie provides extra insulation and features such as the dualposition Sunglass Lock and concealed ponytail opening. MSRP: $36
Top Knot’s Performance Ultra Lightweight Mesh High Ponytail Hat is unstructured and uses extra-lightweight material. The mesh design allows for moisture and heat to easily escape and the patented high magnetic back closure allows for high or low hair styles. MSRP: $38
CEP’s Training No-Show sock is the brand’s first unisex, maximum cushion sock and is made from the same material as CEP’s compression socks. Available in Mid Cut and No_Show heights. MSRP: $15.95
The X Speed Collection of the Experia line of running socks is made with eco-friendly recycled Repreve fibers and features rocket grip technology and are knit with silicone yarn inside the cuff to stay up longer. MSRP: $15.99–$16.99
Balega’s Pride collection features a bright design available in two silhouettes — Hidden Comfort and the new Mini Crew. Proceeds from the collection will be donated to the LGBTQ+ running community.
Falke RU Trail running socks, specifically developed for the trails, contain stabilizing compression zones around the ankles, which increase proprioception, allowing the body to react more quickly to incorrect positions and prevent twisting the ankle. MSRP: $22.95
Darn Tough’s Grit Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight offers performance arch support to reduce fatigue, flex windows for zero bunching and enhanced durability where runners need it most. MSRP: $20
The Racer by Wrightsock is made from postconsumer plastics and is designed for those who like a performance fit.
Injinji’s updated Run series integrates a new anatomical design while maintaining blister prevention, moisture management and total foot utilization that runners trust in the Run Lightweight No-Show Sock. MSRP: $14
Boldfoot’s socks are 100 percent Americanmade, including its Patriot Sock made from 77 percent polypropylene, 17 percent nylon, three percent elastic and three percent spandex. MSRP: $16.99
OS1st’s Nekkid Comfort socks are low enough to make the foot look naked. To prevent slipping in the shoe OS1st uses a stay-inplace hypo-allergenic silicone heel grip, a y-gore heel and light compression. MSRP: $14.99
Flite XT Trail features Swiftwick’s AnkleLock technology that supports ankles during quick movements on uneven and varying terrains, while the GripDry fibers in the heel and forefoot keep feet from sliding. MSRP: $23.99–$26.99.
Feetures Elite Invisible No-Show Sock is a no-slip, no-show running sock with targeted compression for support. Made with a technical mesh ventilation to keep feet cool and comfortable and a higher tab to protect the ankle while staying hidden. MSRP: $18
As proud supporters of USATF, Built's mission is to help runners everywhere feel strong, confident, and ready for whatever challenge comes next. Created for the road warrior with a sweet tooth, Built bars will quickly become a customer favorite in your store, offering the craveable flavor of candy bars with the protein and natural ingredients runners need for the big race.
Amphipod’s Hydraform Chiller Handheld delivers up to 25 percent colder hydration incorporating a patented ergonomic handrelaxing design, integrated Ice-Wall Technology and triple insulating construction.
MSRP: $30-$35
The Balm Stick with Aloe is a moisturizing skin balm in a twist-up stick enriched with aloe vera, lanolin, vitamin E and coconut oil. MSRP $9.99
Boa Endure replenishes sodium, which can aid in delaying the onset of fatigue. MSRP: $19.99–$29.99.
Bonk Breaker Energy Chews provide quick energy and focus and are made with a combination of natural sugar sources to provide fast-acting carbohydrates and electrolytes to aid in muscle contraction.
MSRP: $22.50
The Micro Edge is the symbol of Bolle’s advanced design and creativity. With its narrow shield and sharp lines, this modernized version has a half-rim frame, 100 percent focused on performance with a horizontal and peripheral field of vision. MSRP: $ 170–$240
The MultiShaker by Brümate has a MagFlip lid, an easycarry handle and non-slip base. This multifunctional shaker can go from gym bottle to travel mug with a quick switch of the lid.
MSRP: $34.99
The Crossover Symmetry Hip and Core System includes a comfortable and durable looped resistance band and programs for building strength and mobility. MSRP: $45
Caterpy Run laces showcase its elastic bump technology, which holds customized tension throughout all eyelets.. MSRP: $12.95–$16.95
HYDRATION STICKS
Essential Elements hydration sticks feature a combination of apple cider vinegar, sodium, potassium and buffered vitamin C to ease digestion. MSRP: $39.99
Foot Balance’s 100 percent Custom Impact Poron inserts offer cushioning and comfort and provide all-round balance, support and cushioning. Patented Balance Plate technology provides dynamic arch support and increased shock absorption.
Firefly Recovery is a portable, reusable (up to 30 hours) athletic recovery device that increases blood flow throughout the body by 400 percent to promote faster recovery. MSRP: $45
Raspberry Lemonade is Gu’s combination of sweet and juicy raspberry topped off with citrusy lemonade. MSRP: $1.60–$38.40
Honey Stinger’s Cookies & Cream Gluten Free Waffle is a certified organic performance waffle with a thin layer of honey filling sandwiched between two thin gluten-free waffles. MSRP: $1.79
goodr’s LFG is for runners who are small, but mighty, designed for smaller head sizes. Available in six colorways: Smaller is Baller, Shrimpin’ Ain’t Easy, Middle Seat Advantage, Get on My Level, Short with Benefits, and Never the Big Spoon. MSRP: $25
Heal Again’s Topical Relief & Recovery is a roller with 14 beneficial botanicals. Including THC-free CBD and CBG. MSRP: $29.99
The Apricot & Cranberry energy bar by Krono has a slightly acidic taste and is made to be eaten before the effort. MSRP: $2.29
Kahtoola’s NANOspikes footwear traction has been completely redesigned for 2023, with a number of improvements aimed at increasing comfort, fit and performance in demanding conditions. MSRP: $54.95
The KT Tape Pro Oxygen is infused with Celliant Infrared Technology that converts body heat into full-spectrum infrared energy, improving cellular oxygenation. Made with naturally and ethically sourced minerals, quick drying and durable to provide support and pain relief. MSRP: $24.99
The Ultratrail FX.One Superlight featherweight pole is intended for competition use by runners experienced with running poles. The Ultratrail FX.One Superlite comes equipped with the new Trail Shark, the first grip-strap system developed 100 percent for trail running. The oversized Shark Frame mesh strap transfers power directly to the center of the pole. MSRP: $219.95
Medi-Dyne’s Tuli’s Plantar Fasciitis insoles are full-length replacement insoles designed specifically for plantar fasciitis, providing cushioning and Tuli’s multi-cell, multi-layer design to support the heel for comfort. MSRP: $49.99
Orange Mud’s Soft Flask Handheld Running Pack is a 500ml soft flask with an adjustable tension system for fluid control. An oversized and buckle-secure pocket holds plussized phones and the front pockets hold gels, cash and keys.
MSRP: $44.95
Morinaga’s Chargel is a caffeine-free, athletic gel drink fueled by a blend of carbs and five essential B vitamins. Comes in three flavors in easy-drink pouches for portable power on the go. MSRP: $3.49 per unit
Neversecond’s P30 Recovery Drink Mix is formulated using 87 percent Whey Protein Isolate. Each serving delivers 30g of protein and 15g of essential amino acids to help support lean muscle growth and maintenance. MSRP: $48 for 15 servings
The R1 Percussion Device from Roll Recovery is compact and powerful, quiet and has more than seven hours of battery life. It operates with 40W of power, has four speed settings, four attachment heads and is packaged in aircraft-grade aluminum anodized body.
Nuun introduces an electrolyte scale based on sodium, chloride, and potassium levels. Instead of scouring the ingredient panel or just taking a guess, runners can now understand options at a glance and stock up for different occasions. MSRP: $6.99–$7.99
MSRP: $129
Smellwell Freshener inserts for shoes and gear comply with the REACH standard for environment and safety. Made with natural ingredients. these inserts are climate neutral and made with sustainable and renewable materials.
MSRP: $12.95
PowerStep Bridge features an arch support structure that flexes, supports and adapts to all arch heights. Its energize foam provides a cloud-like feel and even weight distribution for energy return and shock absorption against impact.
MSRP: $34.95
Heali Tape is a breathable, latex free and hypoallergenic kinesiology tape made with two natural ingredients –menthol and magnesium – for added pain relief and recovery.
MSRP: $24.99
SPIbelt Pro-Series features larger expandable pockets, additional space to secure gel and water and extended 1.5-inch belt width. Intentionally designed to keep personal items safe, discreet and secure without being distracting.
MSRP: $29.99
The upgraded Spryng 2.0 is specifically designed to improve the recovery journey of runners. Featuring enhanced pressure levels that can go up to 250mmHg, ensuring an optimal recovery experience.
ME3D
Superfeet ME3D insoles deliver personalized shape and support that responds and adapts to the unique way each foot moves. MSRP: $65.50–$119.19
Pro-Tec’s FlexEdge soft tissue mobilizer is a flexible massage tool to effectively mobilize soft tissue, increasing range of motion and flexibility. It reduces fascial adhesions/muscle knots by separating fascia from muscle, returning it to natural state.
MSRP: $29.95
Vireo’s CON-CRET is a patented Creatine HCl with benefits that support muscle health, heart health, immune support, sexual wellness and brain health. MSRP: $19.99
Therabody’s RecoveryAir JetBoots cordless recovery boots eliminate the external pump and tubes and replace them with integrated motors packed in a compact design for storage and recovery. One-touch controls on the boots make for fast use.
Ultraspire’s Big Bronco Race Vest has a total of seven accessible pockets and is capable of carrying four bottles and a two liter reservoir. MSRP: $149.95
Qo’s Superfood Fuel Powder is made with real whole foods — no sugar, no additives, no preservatives, no flavorings, zero junk. MSRP: $49
The Seek/Seek FC from Tifosi comes with a Grilamid TR-90 wrap frame that provides durability and resistance to chemical and UV damage. Seek is equipped with polycarbonate lenses to help minimize distortion. MSRP: $34.95 for base; polar options, $59.95
Peregrune’s Runner Multivitamin is made with 3X antioxidants for health and recovery and has a complete vitamin B complex for energy. MSRP: $24.99
Sweat-X Sport MAX Odor Defense Extreme Activewear Detergent protects against foul odors and tough stains. Created for runners who need the cleaning power. MSRP: $22.99
The Flexon lace features active rebound and this lightweight, low-friction flat tubular lace is made with soft nylon and engineered to flex with a runner’s natural stride. MSRP: $6.99
Princeton Tec’s Shift Li is a rechargeable headlamp powered by a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, charged via a USB-C charging cable, featuring a new performance head strap. MSRP: $39.99
Zealios Sun Barrier SPF 45 is a zinc-based, oil-free SPF that dries clear and withstands the hottest days and sweatiest adventures. MSRP: $15
Tanri’s traditional SPF50+ sunscreen offers up to 80 minutes of sweat and water resistance, UV broad spectrum protection, and a fragrance-free formula. Packaged in three-ounce recycled plastic bottles. MSRP: $15.00
Mantra Labs’ Super Greens is USDA organic with eight grams of real fiber, one full serving of whole food vegetables in every scoop and an immunity vitamin blend. MSRP: $39.99
Sayso Shades feature slip-free, no-bounce frames made with regenerated nylon and fitted with impact resistant, polycarbonate polarized lenses. Made from ECONYL regenerated nylon, wrapped in 100 percent postconsumer recycled polyester and packaged in FSC certified recycled paper stock. MSRP: $39
The fully carboncompensated Suunto 9 Peak Pro GPS multisport watch offers a faster, easy-to-use user interface with best-in-class battery life. All are built into an ultra-thin and elegant body, tested against the highest standard of toughness.
Coros Wearables Coros Apex 2 series – Apex 2 AND Apex 2 Pro – are designed for performance over all types of terrain and communicate with all five major global satellite systems simultaneously. MSRP: Apex 2, $399; Apex 2 Pro, $499
Sprints’ microfiber performance towels absorb the sweat post-workout and dry quickly. They also feature a headrest pocket to fit over the car seat to protect it from sweat. MSRP: $42
The Snap & Lock Bib Fasteners replace safety pins and keep bib numbers safe and secure to clothes without making holes, rusting or poking fingers. MSRP: $10–$14
Currex Cleatpro offers dynamic support and is ultra lightweight to deliver arch support customized for a runner’s unique arch profile — available in high, medium or low. MSRP: $59.95
SaltStick DrinkMix is a no-sugar, ready-tomix powder that provides a similar ratio of electrolytes to what the body loses through sweat. MSRP: $35.95, 40-serving tub; $19.99 12-count box of packets.
Bag Pro’s shoe bag comes with one shoe divider and one tray to allow retailers and vendors to safely transport samples. Bag Pro bags come with a two-year warranty and parts are available for sale after the warranty expires. MSRP: $380
Näak Ultra Energy drink mix combines the benefits of liquid and solid nutrition and provides complete proteins (EAAs) and BCAAs at optimized levels for ultra distance. MSRP: $34.99
Active Hydration by Tailwind Nutrition includes collagen and Vitamin C to support joint health and electrolytes to keep runners’ bodies well balanced during light workouts. Made with clean, simple ingredients with no diet sweeteners or salty aftertaste. MSRP: $21
ZYM Hydration products are all-natural electrolyte tablets in 15 flavors. ZYM’s tablets and powdered versions are created with fueling, replenishment and recovery in mind. Water is Blah! ZYM is hydration. MSRP: $8 (10 servings).
The Climate + 20oz Wide Mouth Bottle by Miir has 25 percent less stainless steel, no new plastic and a carbon footprint offset of 110 percent while maintaining Thermo 3D doublewall vacuum insulation. MSRP: $39.95
Salty Britches provides a soothing longlasting barrier against skin irritation. Created to withstand salt water chafing and now trusted for year-round, all-day protection. MSRP: $13.95
By incorporating the same kinesiology-taping technology prescribed by doctors into reusable compression sleeves, Go Sleeves Calf Sleeves accelerate post-workout recovery. MSRP: $99.95
Klean Kanteen’s vacuum insulated 32 ounce TKWide creates a wide-mouth water bottle for sports, hydration and the outdoors. It features TK Closure, an internal thread design with rounded lip for comfortable drinking and easy cleaning. MSRP: $44.95
XACT Nutrition’s XACT Energy Fruit bars are a tasty alternative to energy gels, made with simple ingredients, easy to eat and easy to digest. MSRP $2.30
Strides for Progress is a Strava challenge taking place during #TRE22. Participants can run, walk, or complete other activities to reach a collective distance goal of 35,000 miles.
When the goal is reached, donations will be unlocked to five impactful Texas-based nonprofits: Austin Angels, Austin Justice Coalition, Lilith Fund, Texas Civil Rights Project, and Texas Campaign for the Environment Fund . The challenge will end Thursday, December 1.
Scan the QR code to join the TRE Run Club on Strava and learn more about the challenge, or visit therunningevent.com/tre-cares for details.
Strides for Progress is open to all— near and far from Austin!
Thank you to our Strides for Progress Partners Premium Partner: Partners:
The Running Event has also pledged to donate.
Malakye.com is a professional networking website and mobile app built for the running industry. Runners can sign on to search and apply for jobs as well as connect and network with like-minded professionals.
UQ Cadence New Run Specialty Check-In Report helps facilitate discussions between brands and retailers. The new UQ Cadence Run Specialty Check-in Report is now available to help track detailed sell-through and inventory.
A wholesale solution built to go the extra mile, the NuOrder is an intuitive, integrated platform to accelerate sales, save time and offer an enhanced customer experience. MSRP: Starting at $600/month
Marathon Printing produces custom and generic race bibs for endurance sports, in addition to accessories for race directors such as safety pins, packet pickup bags, pennant flags, postcards, business cards, brochures, bumper stickers and labels. MSRP: 500 bibs starting at $275
Optio is a suite of software that optimizes buying and inventory management as well as enhances and fills feature gaps in point-of-sale systems. Optio integrates all relevant inventory and sales data in real time and delivers it in an easy-to-use and actionable manner for the task at hand.
Run DNA’s Helix 3D portable motion analysis device uses algorithms developed with the military to identify key components of a runner’s gait. The runner is categorized and given a personalized plan that is designed to deliver results. MSRP: Purchase; includes laptop, cameras, accessories, software updates, and one-year warranty for $24,500, Lease; includes everything from purchase plus app usage for $899/month.
Nix is a biosensor that analyzes sweat and provides endurance athletes with personal hydration data — scientifically validated, and delivered in real time. MSRP: $99 for the Starter Kit
RICS Software’s RICS>Scan allows retailers to turn any iPhone or Android into a physical inventory counter. Connected directly to RICS Back Office, RICS>Scan allows the use of devices already in a pocket to conduct physical inventory.
In its 16-year history, The Running Event has seen the debut and rise of many brands, but two that stand out to me are Hoka One One and On Running. Both of these billion-dollar brands had humble beginnings at TRE. Hoka arrived in a low-key manner and On Running caused a ruckus. Here’s how it all came about.
About a month before the 2009 edi tion of TRE, we received a phone call from a French gentleman who inquired about buying half a booth. “That’s all I need, because I have only one shoe to show,” he told us. We didn’t take him all that seriously and told him to call us when he got to Austin, never expecting to hear back.
The morning the show opened, we observed a guy sitting in the lobby of the Hilton Austin and then later in the lobby of the Austin Convention Center showing this really strange looking shoe to anyone who would pay attention. The shoe was bright blue and white and had a giant outsole. These impromptu meet ings went on for most of the day and we observed he was attracting a growing crowd as the day wore on.
At one point, we went out to the lobby and invited the guy to come on to the show floor and work from our booth. The founder, Nicolas Mermoud, accepted and by the next day, I noticed people running up and down the show aisles wearing these goofy looking shoes and talking about how great they were.
Hoka began legitimately exhibiting at trade shows the following year, attracted investment dollars from Deckers Corp. and became a major player in the athletic
footwear market.
In 2019, a year after my partners and I sold The Running Event to Diversified Communications, Nico invited me to come by their booth for a champagne toast to celebrate their 10-year anniversary. By then, they had sold their business to Deckers and had enough money (and enough shoes) to have a nice big booth.
are worth keeping an eye on,” I thought to myself.
Little did I know how right I was on a number of fronts.
That fall, On bought a 10 x 10 booth at The Running Event and for a little brand that no one had ever heard of, their booth was packed. “Man, how did they get the word out?” I wondered.
That question was answered about 4:30 p.m. when the manager of the Courtyard Marriott showed up at the show offices screaming at me and waving what appeared to be a “Do Not Disturb” sign. The “sign” was in fact a clever bootleg promotion that On executives had placed on doors of the hotel to attract retailers to their booth.
And it succeeded on two levels. It brought traffic to their booth and pre vented maids from entering and making up the rooms.
In Spring 2012, I was introduced to this company from Switzerland called On Running. They invited me to meet them in New York, where one of the founders, Caspar Copetti, explained their technology and gifted me a pair of shoes. I ran in them that afternoon and thought the outsole technology was interesting but the fit was terrible. After a five-mile run, I discovered Caspar had given me a size 11.5 rather than my preferred size 13. He seemed like a good guy, even if math wasn’t a strong suit.
I also heard they were close to hiring industry veteran Ted Goodlake. “They
Now I’ve been chewed out a number of times in my life, but this was about a 16 on a scale of 10. The manager ranted and raved, demanded to know who was responsible and told me that they would be liable for hours of overtime that he had to spend to get the rooms made up and if that if I didn’t turn over the perpetrator that his next stop was to call the sheriff and pursue trespassing charges.
I forget how I calmed him down. Maybe I just put on my size 11.5 Ons and hobbled away, but no one went to jail and the show went on.
Now if any brand executive reading this thinks that a bootleg promotion like this is a good idea, let me caution you that this was a one-time-only “Stay out of Jail” offer. We now have the sheriff on speed dial and I hear the jails in Texas are tough. n
