sportstyle

It's about the run. In this issue, we take a look at five big opportunities that run specialty shops see in 2021. And along with that optimism, we talk with twenty brand executives on their outlook for the new year and their perspectives on how to keep the channel running at full speed. Our coverage begins on page 6. November is National Running Safety Month. With an increase in runners and fitness walkers taking to the streets day and night, it is the perfect opportunity to, well, reflect on how safety really does go the distance. Our story on page 10 takes a deep dive into the products that help make runners shine while offering talking points for retailers to educate their customers on safety during low light situations mixed with today's distracted drivers to run or walk safe and sound, and seen. We also know running masks are a newly evolving category in run safety, but it is a complicated subject. It's filled with opportunity if you can get past the challenges. And, as we get into the winter months, check out our exclusive consumer survey to get a snapshot on where they run, how they run, and what they are buying. Closing the loop on fashion, whether it is for a head-clearing run or soul-refreshing walk, our review on sneakers including lifestyle and walking styles, will give you a look at how sneakers are stepping out. As sustainability scales up, and with consumer eco-awareness at an all-time high, suppliers are doubling down on eco efficiencies, and telling their sustainability stories in new and compelling ways. On page 40, we take a look at the challenge of volume, how some manufacturers are investing in high-tech platforms and how others embrace the holistic approach to marketing sustainability. For team dealers, high school and college specialty sports fall into the COVID-19 created category of "any sport that is playing these days is a major sport." To help play their sports, athletes are making masks part of their uniform and workout gear. While fashion and trend-right looks—with school logos—played a small role in their designs, it has been the cutting-edge technology that is making face masks the hot product. While we are on the subject, we feature seven new products that are bringing technology to playing fields and courts across America. Our team sports coverage begins on page 48. sportstyle magazine is a curated collection of feature stories from the latest editions of Formula4Media's stable of magazines and newsletters, with an eye on inspirations, challenges, what's new, and what's next from the specialty markets we cover. We believe that these stories will resonate with all of our specialty retailers and the brands that support them. Stay well! Jeff Nott CEO & Publisher Running. Better, smarter and safer. • LETTER 4 • November 2020 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com

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