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SHOP TALK

Across the industry, the influx of new consumers picking up running over the past few years has generated plenty of buzz, along with plenty of new customers. At the run specialty retail level, offering a welcoming environment to newer runners is something shops each take different approaches with. Runstyle talked to several run specialty stores across the country about how they reach beginning runners, including helping them overcome any anxieties they face not just in taking up the sport but often in just walking into a run specialty shop to begin with.

Run For All

Attracting new runners, making products for entry level runners, and marketing to new consumers are concepts that brands across the industry are all keenly invested in. Strava’s annual Year in Sport report released in January revealed that running was the most-uploaded sport in 2023. Not only that, nearly a quarter of runners ran at least one race in 2023, which was a 24 percent increase over 2022. Indeed, running is a sport that is more accessible and less cost-prohibitive than many other activities. It is perhaps for these reasons that it attracts so many athletes of every caliber and experience level to pound the pavement.

Design/ Material Innovation

On the Move

Whether training on a treadmill, doing laps around a high school track, or hitting the trail, odds are the estimated 50 million people in the United States defined as new, casual or recreational runners are not going for gold. “I am a better version of myself when I am running frequently!” says Katie Brennan, who dips in and out of running as life dictates. “Being able to lace up my shoes and knock out a very slow walk/run for five miles is a huge part of my well-being.”

INSOLES

All In

Top insole choices for runners of all levels Arch support, shock absorption and custom fit are just three of the traits running consumers can find in some of the latest and greatest insoles on the market. Long-lasting comfort, energy return and pain relief are additional elements that can make adding an insole to a running shoe a good choice for consumers. Here, we highlight top offerings for the running market.

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RECOVERY

Recovery for All

Elite and everyday athletes can both benefit from footwear that enhances overall wellness. As more and more people have become aware and interested in the recovery category, and fallen in love with the products, some elements of the category have naturally evolved, as well. So, how has the recovery footwear category adapted to everyday athletes? And what are the differences between what an ordinary consumer is looking for in a recovery shoe as opposed to what an elite athlete might be looking for? Here, brand execs share their views on these questions regarding recovery footwear.

Trend Insight

The Male Runner

As a follow-up to our consumer survey of female runners in the previous issue of runstyle, in this issue, we focused our Trend Insight survey on male runners. We asked more than 300 men who are runners about their product and purchasing choices. And we found that male runners have some strong opinions on products!

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

We’re All In On The Run

We focused our stories on the newbie runner and how to best encourage them to visit your store and engage in the sport of running. What we found out in our coverage is that it all starts with a connection.

2024 RIA SUMMIT GUIDE

WELCOME TO THE 2024 RIA SUMMIT!

Formerly known as Runchella, this is the fifth annual RIA members-only event that is all about helping retailers, brands and associate members connect in ways that elevate their businesses. From an opening night industry panel on how artificial intelligence will impact the run specialty channel, to small group discussions on retaining and elevating superstar employees, to professional development sessions on the future of buying and inventory management - show attendees are sure to walk away with actionable, progressive ideas about how to move their businesses forward in a rapidly changing channel.

WINTER 2024 ARTICLES

Welcome to the 2024 RIA Summit!

April 2024

Staff

Designing for Women

February 2024

Mackenzie Havey

Talking 2024 with Fleet Feet

February 2024

Bob McGee

Material Matters

February 2024

Emily Walzer

Taking it to the Trail

February 2024

Cara Griffin

2024 RIA Summit Update

February 2024

Cara Griffin

Consumer Survey of Women Runners

February 2024

Cara Griffin

Read The Latest Issue

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One trend is clear in 2024, sneaker style is here to stay. Dressed up kicks are a fit for the office. And they can be worn for a night out on the town, too.

TEAM INSIGHT

Girls Got Games

In 2023, team sports were back in full swing following pandemic-induced setbacks and the progress has been substantial.

TEXTILE INSIGHT

While circularity is a global initiative, groundwork is being laid domestically. Campbell Hall, NY-based Accelerating Circularity announced an effort to expand circular textile-to-textile systems to reduce both greenhouse gas impact ...

SPORTSTYLE

Look Good & Feel Good

One trend is clear in 2024, sneaker style is here to stay. Dressed up kicks are a fit for the office. And they can be worn for a night out on the town, too.

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Look Good & Feel Good

Girls Got Games

Waste Not

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