We’re lacing up for a weekend of inspiration and insight at the Running Industry Alliance Conference.
As excitement builds we’ve looking ahead.
Here’s three running brands who are breaking the mold and setting pulses racing, by doing things their own way.
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1. SATISFY: Always setting the pace
SATISFY made a bold stride at The Running Event this year, unveiling the next chapter for the brand.
From a reimagined women’s line, fall/winter innovations for men, and of course, TheROCKER™.
Their first in-house trail shoe, packed with ultra-distance trail tech to help runners seamlessly transition from concrete to mud.
This new chapter might steal the headlines, and rightly so, but their booth, true to form, was impossible to miss.
✅ Distinctly bold
✅ Distinctly creative
✅ Distinctly unique
SATISFY are always setting the pace, standing out like a lone runner and showing us the importance of why you should always, keep ahead of the pack.
2. NNormal: Every scar tells a story
“Every scar, every tear, every worn-out thread tells a story.” Now that’s a line!
In 2006, Kilian Jornet’s broken patella taught him resilience. Years later, an ice axe tore his favourite NNormal jacket. To this day he still trains in it, because it’s more than just gear, it’s part of his journey.
Authentic stories like these, raw, real moments resonate deeply with their audience, creating a connection that goes beyond the surface.
And that’s why we think this is a great example of the power and magic of truly authentic storytelling.
3. Unsanctioned Athletics: Racing, redefined
At Kendal Mountain Festival, Unsanctioned Athletics pitted road runners against trail runners in a battle for bragging rights.
The twist? Just 30 minutes’ notice before being dropped miles from Kendal, one bound to the roads, the other to the trails. Armed only with a compass, they braved soaked terrain and relentless conditions, courageously racing to KMF Basecamp.
Unconventional, unpredictable, and unforgettable, this was racing redefined, bringing runners together and building community, through an IRL challenge like no other!
Insight: Here’s how we’d go the distance, if we were building a running brand.
Retail that runs unique
Like SATISFY’s booth, create retail experiences as unforgettable as hitting a PB, think immersive spaces that leave a lasting impression on those who visit.
Stories that go the distance
Inspire with authentic narratives that reflect the runner’s journey, highs, lows, and everything in between, keep your audience moving with you.
Build your running pack
Strengthen community bonds by showing up where runners where gather, on the trails, the tracks, or the streets. Create shared experiences that foster loyalty, one mile at a time.
