SHOE SHOW The best from the shoe brands was on display at TRE21. / By Cregg Weinmann
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here is a revival of sorts, the rebirth that happens each spring, or in this case what is coming for Spring 2022. The running industry feels it and after the long winter under a cloud, returning to in-person meeting adds to the optimism that the activity of running brings to a day. Such was the case among the footwear brands at The Running Event 2021 in Austin, TX, earlier this month. Seeing long-time friends on both the retailer and brand sides of the aisle was a return to normalcy — though there were some not in attendance due to the unpredictable nature of the current pandemic situation. The 20-month suspension of personal contact did not, however, diminish the industrious production that is seen between seasons and the results were in evidence at TRE, although confirmation of release dates was hard to come by due to supply chain uncertainties. Looking across the brands there was much to digest, but here is one writer’s take on what will matter for run specialty retailers as they ponder their shoe walls in Spring 2022 and beyond.
Puma has made its presence known with strong product and endorsements by Olympian Molly Seidel.
to permeate the line. New foams are expected in the current running shoe climate and the pelletized polyurethane foam is an excellent
Altra The focus on growth while maintaining the cushion, fit and ethos of the brand was on full display at TRE. The unveiling of its first shoe with the Boa closure system emphasized its commitment to performance. The new Mont Blanc paired its proven zero drop Altra Ego foam and Vibram trail tread, with the
361º Spire5
361º The flagship of 361’s running line receives an early Christmas present — a midsole upgrade, or more to the point, an upgrade beginning with the midsole and working its way up. It may be a sign of things to come, as the foam from the Flame, 361º’s plated racing shoe begins 20
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addition. The newly revamped upper is also welcomed, making the fit and breathability equivalent to the midsole upgrade.
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