Brooks Partners With Kara Goucher …

Brooks has entered into a partnership with two-time Olympian, champion marathoner and running advocate Kara Goucher with the aim of further amplifying and increasing access to the power of the run. The new partnership, in addition to footwear sponsorship, will leverage both Brooks’ and Goucher’s platforms to create engagement in the sport through speaking opportunities, social media campaigns and storytelling. 

This new partnerships centers on Goucher’s experiences and her passion for bringing attention to the humans behind incredible performances and the ways that running can create real change in the lives of people from all backgrounds. In tune with Brooks’ purpose to inspire everyone to run their path, the two partners will aim to combine forces to positively impact the sport and its running community at all levels.

“I’m incredibly excited to work with Brooks on this new partnership and share my excitement and belief of the impact that running can have,” says Goucher. “Telling the amazing stories of runners is something I’ve always been passionate about, and Brooks makes for an incredible teammate as we continue to advocate for the power of the run to improve the sport for future generations.”

In addition to key activations that began at the Olympic Marathon Trails in Orlando, Goucher will be a key player in Brooks’ events in 2024, including trackside commentary, athlete collaborations and support of Brooks’ Future Run and community impact program. Upcoming events include the Track and Field Olympic Trials in Eugene, Brooks PR Invite, the Paris 2024 Olympics, among other regional activations in Kara’s hometown of Duluth and Brooks’ headquarters in Seattle.

… and Signs Blake Slattengren

In another recent move, Brooks Running signed local Seattle ultra runner Blake Slattengren to its trail athlete team. Blake had a breakout year in 2023, earning the title of iRunFar’s Ultra Runner Rookie of the Year after a string of second place finishes at the Gorge Waterfalls 100k, Wy’east Trailfest 50k and the Javelina 100 miler. Blake’s signing highlights Brooks’ continued investment in the fast-growing ultra and trail running disciplines, expanding on the brand’s breadth of expertise as it deepens its bench of elite athletes across trail, track and road. 

“We’re incredibly excited for Blake to join our team at Brooks,” says Garrett Heath, head of sports marketing at Brooks Running. “Blake will make a great addition to our roster at the ultra distance and we look forward to supporting a local Seattle athlete through his endeavors as he looks to compete on the trail at the highest level.” 

“Being a part of the Brooks team will give me the support to pursue my passion and help me take my running to the next level,” adds Slattengren. “I’m looking forward to the trail ahead for the 2024 season as I pave the way towards achieving my goals.” 

Under Armour Launches Infinite Collection

Under Armour is launching the UA Infinite Collection as its newest running footwear franchise that is all about “delivering key footwear models that support long run day as well as everyday miles.” 

Within the Infinite Collection, HOVR+ is the brand’s new midsole foam that will debut in these two styles. It is a bead foam technology that will deliver a lighter, softer and more responsive underfoot experience than any previous UA midsole foam. 

  • UA Infinite Elite: A maximal training shoe built for the long run. The shoe delivers plush comfort not only underfoot via HOVR+ but also in the collar and tongue foam, the laces and the sock-liner. The adaptive full-length Intelliknit upper is built with zonal stretch and containment to move with each runner’s stride. 
  • UA Infinite Pro: Following up the Infinite Elite, a key model at a tier-down will be the Infinite Pro. Continuing to drive the energy return experience, this model takes some of that key technology from the long day shoe in Elite and bringing it down to a daily trainer for those shorter days or recovery runs. 

Green Named New Hoka President

Robin Green, who most recently was global VP of men’s running and fitness for Nike, has been named the new president of Hoka. Green will also serve on the company’s executive leadership team, reporting directly to company president and CEO Dave Powers. 

Green started her running industry career at Fleet Feet in 2002 after working as a portfolio accountant at Barclays Investment Bank. Her position with Nike began in 2006 as a member of its running pacer team working with specialty accounts. She joined Nike’s Beaverton team in 2008 as an associate product line manager for global running and then moved up through positions with increasing responsibility and scope until her most recent position.

“Robin is a strong leader with a demonstrated ability to develop and execute multi-year strategic, growth-driving initiatives for global performance businesses and I am eager for her to leverage that expertise as part of Deckers,” says Powers. “Hoka is in its strongest position to date and I am confident in our ability to continue its positive momentum with Robin at the helm. Together, we will focus on continuing to expand consumer awareness of Hoka, maximizing and scaling our product offerings and accessibility, and eclipsing the exceptional revenue milestones hit over the last year.”

“I am thrilled to join Deckers and lead the dedicated Hoka team to further unlock the potential of this outstanding brand,” Green adds. “Hoka is delivering market share gains and record results at unparalleled levels for our industry, and we will continue to execute on the incredible growth opportunities ahead. I am confident in our ability to build on the Hoka brand’s commitment to product innovation excellence, capitalize on our growing global consumer demand and brand loyalty, and optimize for marketplace management and growth.”

Holly Wiese and 3 Dots Design To Offer Online Training

Run specialty retailers looking for help with their store design and visual merchandising can soon get in online as 3 Dots Design, the well-known retail and merchandising consulting firm that specializes in the specialty run and bike channels, is launching a collection of online training courses in March on their website (3dotsdesign.com).  

Holly Wiese, founder of 3 Dots Design, says that she has been asked by retailers for training support frequently over the years and has been trying to develop a very affordable, quick and easy training program that is more accessible for retailers who don’t want to hire her company to come visit their store and provide more comprehensive in-person training. This online option will be a significantly more cost effective way to receive educational training for themselves and their staff.  

The course offering will continue to grow, but the initial launch will include several course options such as one devoted to footwear presentations, merchandising difficult product categories and general best practices for visual merchandising and store design. Other training courses being developed for a later launch include topics such as merchandising apparel, merchandising to women and others still in development. 

Most courses are 30-60 minutes with a quiz at the end to summarize the key training points. The pricing will range approximately from $99-$250, depending on length and complexity of the course. All of the details of the courses will be launching on their website in March, so be sure to check in soon for details. Any questions for more information: [email protected]

Tifosi Adds Stephanie Pi As Brand Ambassador

Tifosi Optics is partnering with marathoner, certified run coach, physical therapist and content creator Stephanie Pi, who will serve as a Tifosi ambassador. Pi has gained more than 166,000 followers on Instagram, using the platform to educate and inspire her audience to achieve long-term health goals. In addition, Pi shares her rigorous marathon training schedule with tips on adjusting fitness routine for minimal time and maximum effectiveness. With her own personal goal of entering races around the world, Pi’s content reflects a spirit of adventure and personal betterment–core tenants of the Tifosi brand.

Brooks Running Sales Up Five Percent in 2023

Brooks Running finished 2023 with record revenue of $1.2 billion, up five percent from 2022, with a record of more than 20 million units sold. In addition, Brooks also recently reported its compound annual growth rate exceeded 14 percent since 2018.

In North America, revenue increased seven percent, reaching $1 billion in the region for the first time. Brooks said it executed its multi-channel business strategy as it right-sized inventory, invested in key markets and delivered performance products across regions to drive the brand’s success in 2023.

Brooks said it has maintained the top spot in the adult performance running footwear market at U.S. retail from quarter to quarter in 2023, with 21 percent market share for the year when measuring U.S. dollar sales, according to data from Circana. The company said the Brooks Ghost and the Adrenaline GTS shoes also remained the top two adult performance running styles at U.S. retail, with more than 12 percent share combined in 2023, again based on the Circana data. 

ASICS Continues Momentum Into 2024

The momentum continues at ASICS North America in the fourth quarter of 2023 as the company recently reported a third consecutive quarter of profit. The region, which includes the United States, Canada and Mexico, also saw net sales growth across the full year of 2023 versus the full year of 2022. 

In Performance Running, both the Gel-Nimbus and Novablast footwear lines experienced strong growth over the previous year in the U.S. Wholesale channel. For SportStyle, also within the U.S. Wholesale channel, heritage running models like the Gel-Kayano 14 saw triple digit growth in sales, while newly released silhouettes like the Gel-1130, Gel-2160 and Gel-NYC all had positive consumer launches.

“As 2023 presented unique challenges and opportunities, I am proud of how the team drove strong results through meaningful initiatives with our valued partners and consistently provided premium experiences with our brand," says Koichiro Kodama, president and CEO of ASICS North America and managing executive officer of ASICS Corporation in Kobe, Japan. “In 2024, we will continue our investment in our brand, people, digital initiatives and operational excellence and we look forward to celebrating the 75th anniversary of the ASICS brand. In a year with many milestones in sports, we will continue to emphasize our founding principle of ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ in everything we do.”

Inov8 Debuts Trailfly Collection

Inov8 recently unveiled its next generation hard-ground trail running shoes. The Trailfly (in photo) and Trailfly Speed form part of a new 2024 footwear collection that headlines Inov9’s first-ever rebrand.

The first shoe to launch from the collection last month was the Mudtalon Speed, designed for muddy running and soft-ground trails. The two new arrivals are hard-ground specialists. And while they retain some of the key DNA from the same franchise, these new shoes are “a different breed of beast ready to meet the next generation needs of runners who like to tear up trails.”

Like the other shoes in the 2024 collection, the Trailfly and Trailfly Speed feature a new anatomical foot-shaped fit that promotes a more natural feel. This in turn brings greater levels of comfort and performance.

The Trailfly Speed is the lighter of the two new shoes and is available now. The Trailfly, which has deeper cushioning than its sibling, is set to join it shortly. Both will eventually come in two brand-new width fits – Standard & Wide. For launch the Trailfly Speed is in Wide. The Trailfly will launch in both fits

Jambar Expands Retail Presence At Erewhon

Founded by Jennifer Maxwell, creator of the original PowerBar, Jambar certified organic energy bars are now available in all 10 locations of natural products retailer Erewhon. Based in Los Angeles, Erewhon is renowned as one of the most innovative natural products retailers in the U.S. Erewhon will offer three Jambar flavors – Malt Nut Melody, Chocolate Cha Cha and Jammin’ Jazzleberry. 

In related news, Jambar recently appointed natural products industry sales veteran Darren Wagoner as national sales manager. Wagoner’s experience includes serving as national account manager and key account manager for such brands as Activate Drinks, Purity Organic, High Brew and CB Gourmet Foods. 

NNormal Launches Durability Study

Using a sample of 511 runners, footwear brand NNormal has subjected its Kjerag trail running shoes to extensive testing and has concluded that they can last up to 1350 kilometers before being completely worn out. This data is especially important as the sports equipment brand claims durability as the main factor when calculating the environmental impact of trail running shoes. The brand, founded in 2022, develops trail running shoes and sports equipment with the goal of each product lasting as long as possible, without compromising performance in outdoor activities.

In this case, NNormal has conducted a study based on a sample of 511 runners of all levels and has been able to verify that their Kjerag should last 1350 kilometers before being completely worn out or before concluding their lifecycle. To reach this conclusion, the runners who participated in the study provided data related to their weight, the kilometers covered with their Kjerag, the terrain on which they used them and the level of wear of their shoes, which was governed by the NNormal Durability Scale. With this system, NNormal has been able to link the wear of each person’s shoes with the kilometers covered and, consequently, predict the average lifespan of the Kjerag.

Through this study, NNormal not only wants to prove the durability of its shoes, but also defend durability as a significant factor in shoe development. Last year, NNormal estimated that the emissions from its Kjerag and Tomir shoes amounted to 7.5 CO2 per pair. Through estimating the average 1350 kilometers that consumers can travel with their Kjerag, the brand has obtained the significant data that these shoes generate only 5.5 kg of CO2 per 1000 kilometers.

Currently, NNormal is working on a study that will test its Tomir shoe to determine how many kilometers on average consumers can use it.

Hoka Unveils Cielo X1

Hoka has launched the Cielo X1, the brand’s latest addition to its road racing lineup and highest energy return shoe. Harnessing the brand ethos of delivering joyful performance with an exciting push towards speed, the Cielo X1 (MSRP: $275) encompasses the brand’s best race day learnings to provide a reliable and trustworthy shoe that athletes can feel confident stepping into. The Cielo X1 is described as an innovative, ultra-fast offering within the competitive running space in which everyone can feel race day ready.

The Hoka product team created this race day shoe by integrating advanced geometry, plate technology and foam compounds, while eliminating things that didn’t enhance the ride. These innovations include an exaggerated new rocker profile, asymmetrical Active Foot Frame, dynamic winged carbon fiber plate and an aggressively cored out midsole, which come together to create a light, fast, dynamic and stable ride. 

The Cielo X1 midsole employs an early stage MetaRocker designed to move people forward in stride, while the upgraded carbon fiber plate captures the foot at faster speeds, through asymmetrical wings that wrap up medially and laterally. Featuring a ProFlyX midsole construction, the carbon plate is nestled between two layers of responsive PEBA foam for the brand’s highest energy return shoe. The softer layer directly underfoot provides comfort, while the firmer bottom layer provides a resilient source of power, with speed-focused geometries incorporated throughout. Strategic rubber coverage was incorporated on high-traction areas of the outsole for maximum durability and control. 

An all-new engineered knit upper provides a lightweight, breathable foot-hugging fit while the asymmetrical gusseted knit tongue enables easy entry and a race-ready lockdown. Weighing 7.4 oz for a Women’s size 8 and 9.3 oz for a Men’s size 10, with a 40 mm stack height and 7mm drop, the Cielo X1 is World Athletics approved. 

Hoka is gearing up to launch the Cielo X1 as a part of its Hoka FlyLab campaign, with a series of digital films and interactive activations that celebrate innovation and the brand’s unconventional approach to helping athletes fly. Featuring Hoka NAZ Elite athletes Futsum Zienasellassie and Kellyn Taylor, the films showcase the race day shoe as a powerhouse of energy and speed, and the possibilities it allows runners to unlock.

New Balance Launches FuelCell SC Elite v4

New Balance has officially launched its FuelCell SC Elite v4, including upgrades that focus on the details that are vital for athletes to perform this Olympic year. More than 200 athletes will compete in New Balance at the Paris Olympics.

The SC Elite v4 (MSRP: $250) includes a new FuelCell midsole foam made with PEBA, a foam used in top caliber racing shoes that is lighter and provides a more noticeable bounce in each step than previous FuelCell foams. The v4 carbon fiber plate is thinner, shaving weight while maintaining the stiffness needed for propulsion. The upper and tongue consists of lightweight mesh that eliminates any top foot irritations.

Oofos Partners With Austin Races

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k has entered into a partnership with Oofos for the upcoming 2024 event, set for Feb. 18 in Austin, TX. Oofos will be the Official Recovery Footwear Sponsor and Presenting Sponsor of the FloTrack Live Broadcast for the Austin Marathon weekend and will be on-site throughout the weekend to celebrate.

As part of the sponsorship, Oofos will bring the party to the Official Shakeout Run and Health & Fitness Expo leading up to the event, offering participants the opportunity to explore and experience their revolutionary recovery footwear. In addition, Oofos will play a pivotal role in post-race recovery throughout the Oofos Finish Line Festival — Recovery Starts Here, including an interactive installation where participants can revel in their success and “feel the OO” after crushing the marathon, half marathon or 5k.

New Product: Altra Timp Collection

Altra recently launched the Timp 5, Timp Hiker and Timp HikerGTX, part of its updated Timp Collection.

  • The Timp 5 is an updated version of Altra’s best-selling, high-cushion trail shoe. Updates include an ounce lighter for a lightweight and faster feel, a new Vibram Megagrip compound offering runners grip and traction on wet and dry surfaces, updated Altra EGO Max midsole that provides a softer, more responsive ride, and an improved Altra EGO Max midsole foam that gives runners a combination of plush underfoot feel with a little extra bounce.
  • Timp Hiker and Timp Hiker GTX incorporate the familiar cushion and grip of the Timp trail running shoe into a new hiking boot with added ankle support. Features include a Vibram Megagrip compound offering hikers enhanced grip and traction on any type of surface, an updated Altra EGO Max midsole providing cushioning and durability, TPU overlays around the toe for added protection and a lightweight upper adds breathability and comfort. The new Timp Hiker will also be available with GTX Waterproof technology as the Timp HikerGTX. 

 

Enda Acquired By NVH Studios

Footwear brand Enda has been acquired by NVH Studios, an organization known for designing lifestyle-related shoes and brands. According to a statement from the company, by joining forces with NVH Studios it will have access to greater resources, expertise and innovation.

 

 

Jogology Expands Product Line

New sock brand Jogology recently expanded its collection of Low Cushion Socks to include more colors. Jogology socks are engineered for running comfort, resembling the construction of running shoes by securing the heel and midfoot while allowing flexible toe movement. These socks boast a second-skin fit, featuring arch support massage bands to reduce excess fabric and create moisture management between the foot and shoe. A soft knit ankle rib band minimizes pressure marks, and a protective area covers the large toe for added comfort. Jogology socks retail for $16. 

Mojawa Unveils The HaptiFit Terra

At the recent CES 2024, Mojawa, a manufacturer of bone conduction headphones, unveiled the HaptiFit Terra, billed as “the industry’s first integrated smart sports device combining haptic technology, bone conduction audio and an AI Sports Trainer in a comfortable, head-mounted design.” 

With the HaptiFit Terra, Mojawa unites listening and fitness tracking to deliver a first-of-its-kind integrated smart sport experience. The all-in-one sports tracking device features haptic controls and responses and an AI Sports Trainer that elevates workouts into complete training sessions with automatically generated exercise plans. The device delivers heart rate, pace, step count, calories, swimming lap and distance, and other real-time notifications to keep athletes’ goals at the forefront and enable users to adjust their speed, set new personal records, and achieve more.

United In Stride Awards Boston Marathon Scholarship

United In Stride (www.unitedinstride.com), the free-to-use resource for uniting visually impaired (VI) runners and walkers with guides, recently awarded Jasmine Murrell with the Richard Hunter Houston to Boston Award and scholarship following her fastest qualifying finish in the women’s VI division of the Houston Marathon on Sunday, January 14.

The award includes registration for the Boston Marathon, three night accommodations for the marathon, a travel stipend up to $500, and complimentary membership in Team With A Vision (TWAV) – the official Boston Marathon Charity Team of the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI). MABVI is a division of MAB Community Services, a Brookline, MA, non-profit organization serving youth and adults with disabilities across the Commonwealth. Jasmine opted to redeem her registration for the 2025 edition of the Boston Marathon. 

The Houston to Boston scholarship is named for Richard Hunter, founder of United in Stride and a decorated endurance athlete, who will be running the 2024 Boston Marathon guided by his eldest daughter, Kiersten Mosbacher. After losing his vision at age 22, Hunter discovered purpose and passion through endurance sports and serving as a resource to VI athletes around the world. Hunter was the driving force behind the creation of United In Stride when it launched in 2015 in collaboration with MABVI.

Zamberlan Names New Sales Agency

Zamberlan, the third-generation Italian bootmaker, has added Odle Sales as its new manufacturer’s representative agency in the Southeast (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia) and South Central (Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana) regions. Founded in 1983, Odle Sales has become a leading rep agency for the hunting, shooting, and outdoor channels. 

FootBalance's Technology Shortlisted in Sport Technology Awards 2024

MyFootBalance, FootBalance’s patented 3D Foot Scanning Service, has been shortlisted in the Sports Medical category in the Sports Technology Awards 2024. The patented technology combines advanced 3D scanning with biomechanical foot analysis and personalized footwear and gear recommendations.

The Sports Technology Awards celebrate and recognize outstanding achievements in the evolving field of sports technology, honoring innovation and excellence across various sectors. It's like The Oscars of Sports Technology.

”We are delighted and tremendously honored to be one of the finalists in the Sport Technology Awards 2024,” says Erkki Hakkala, FootBalance’s founder. “For the past 20 years, we've been the forerunners of innovation, pushing the boundaries of technology to revolutionize the sports and medical industry. 

“Our unique concept integrates advanced health technology, customized products and personalized experiences,” Hakkala adds. “However, we have a greater purpose beyond technology and products: our holistic approach to health and wellbeing aims to enhance quality of life, ensuring better lives and maintaining active, fit and pain-free lifestyles.” 

The winners of The Awards will be revealed at a ceremony scheduled for Thursday, May 9, at The Londoner, in the heart of the city’s West End.

Tailwind Nutrition Sets 2024 Athlete Team

Tailwind Nutrition’s 2024 Tailwind Athlete Team includes 21 athletes whose specialties range across the spectrum of endurance sports. The team includes Tailwind athlete and ultrarunning icon Courtney Dauwalter, who last year won the Western States 100, Hardrock 100 and Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc in the span of three months. 

Dauwalter is once again working with Tailwind, having been with the brand the past six years and launching her limited edition ‘Dauwaltermelon’ Endurance Fuel flavor last year. Dauwalter is joined on the team by other notable ultrarunners such as Annie Hughes, Sarah Ostaszewski and Harvey Lewis, who all continue their relationships with the brand. 

As Tailwind returns to its cycling roots, Sonya Looney is a new addition to the team for 2024. Looney is a 24 Hour Mountain Bike World Champion, a performance coach, and hosts The Sonya Looney Show, a podcast about how to live a high performance life. Looney is joined by fellow cyclist Ellen Campbell. Born and raised in Durango, Campbell competes in the premiere Life Time Grand Prix series,  where she uses Tailwind’s products to fuel efforts in races such as the feared Unbound Gravel 200 and Leadville Trail 100 MTB race.

The 2024 roster: