Peluva is a minimalist footwear brand co-founded by Mark Sisson, a pioneer in health and wellness, and his son, Kyle Sisson. Designed for true barefoot functionality, Peluva shoes feature five articulated toes and cushioning that mimics the sensation of walking on grass, aiming to support foot strength, alignment, and comfort for all-day wear. With its blend of performance and style, Peluva offers options for gym-goers and everyday activities, bringing innovative design to the minimalist shoe space.
Hylo makes athletic sneakers for superior performance. As a company, they believe it’s their responsibility to protect the future of sport .
Run Gum is an easy-to-use caffeine boost that keeps your stomach clean so that you can focus on your mileage. Runners who chew Run Gum before each run are able to get the energy they need to maximize every mile, train for their next race and reach their fitness goals.
Founded in 2016, Myrqvist is a Swedish footwear brand dedicated to timeless design and craftsmanship, creating premium-quality shoes at a fair price. Their Scandinavian-inspired pieces are crafted by artisans in Portugal using Goodyear welted construction, which enhances durability and long-term wear. Myrqvist’s collection has expanded from classic Oxfords to include boots, sneakers, and accessories, combining minimalist aesthetics with high-quality leathers from the best global tanneries.
Founded in Boston in 2014, Tracksmith is an independent running brand built on a deep love for the sport. They craft products, tell stories and create experiences that enrich the running experience.
Built on the foundation of inspiring change, Torsa creates running products to enhance performance, using design-led thinking and functionality at their core. Their mission is to inspire people to harness training in the pursuit of greatness.
Successful direct-to-consumer (D2C) running brands distinguish themselves by offering products that blend performance, innovation, and a deep understanding of runners' needs. According to a report by the NPD Group, running shoe sales increased by 7% in 2019, reflecting the growing demand for quality running gear. Top D2C running brands stand out by offering footwear and apparel that cater to both amateur joggers and professional athletes. These brands often focus on high-tech materials and design innovations that enhance performance, comfort, and durability. A hallmark of successful D2C running brands is their ability to provide a personalized shopping experience, using customer data to recommend products and tailor marketing messages.
For e-commerce managers and SaaS employees in the running industry, leveraging technology to connect with and understand their audience is key. Effective use of tools like customer relationship management (CRM) software, advanced analytics, and personalized digital marketing strategies are integral. Additionally, leading D2C running brands often engage their community through social media, virtual running clubs, and mobile apps, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation among their customers. By combining high-quality products with a community-focused approach and smart use of technology, these brands create a unique value proposition that resonates with runners of all levels.
On Cloud and Hoka are two brands that have significantly impacted the e-commerce running market.
On Cloud has gained a strong following for their innovative approach to running shoes. They're known for their 'CloudTec' technology, which uses hollow pods on the soles of the shoes to provide cushioning and a responsive run. This unique feature sets them apart, offering runners a feeling of running 'on clouds' with a blend of comfort and performance. On Cloud’s focus on lightweight design and functional style has made their shoes popular among both casual joggers and serious athletes. Their direct-to-consumer model, coupled with a sleek and user-friendly website, allows them to effectively reach and engage with a wide range of customers.
Hoka, on the other hand, stands out with its distinctive oversized midsoles, providing exceptional cushioning and support. Their shoes are designed to reduce the stress and impact on runners' joints, appealing especially to long-distance runners and those recovering from injuries. Hoka has successfully carved a niche by focusing on comfort and endurance, which has resonated with a broad audience in the running community. Their commitment to innovation and the distinctiveness of their product design has helped them build a loyal customer base.
Everything you need to build a better D2C brand, business and tech stack.
