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W e know that the pandemic changed our fitness lifestyle. We couldn't go to a gym or a club. So we went for a walk or run or a hike. Or rode on a bike. We didn't run in organized races. We ran alone or in virtual ones. Some of us took our active pursuits to the water to swim, boat, kayak, or paddleboard. Still others took to the road to reach the trails in their RVs with all of their hiking gear, bikes, boats, and boards in tow. We collectively went outdoors. While the pandemic may have changed our individual fitness pursuits over the past year, will those changes continue? I believe so. As part of our collective pursuits to stay active, and to discover new avenues to do so. In our Trend Insight consumer survey this month, 66% responded that they started a new fitness routine in an effort to stay active during COVID restrictions. That's 66 percent. Even in our small sample, we saw new runners, walkers, cyclists, hikers and yogis. Sixty-three percent responded that they purchased new footwear. Forty-one percent purchased new leggings. New routines equals new purchases. And these new routines involved more than just "me." A sneak peek at next month's survey: 71% responded that they added family fitness activities to their routines during the pandemic. 76% of those said that these activities would likely or very likely become part of their family's lifestyle. New family activities plus new routines equals heathier lifestyles. Brands, as you might imagine, have taken notice. "Going from not doing anything to a walk every day, to a jog, to running a 5K leads to fitness, and we do see this happening," stated Rob Pickels, Advanced Product Team Leader at Pearl Izumi. Retailers have taken notice, too. A recent article in Barron's discussed how Academy Sports "got a lift as Americans embraced outdoor recreation and health and wellness. While the interest in staying active looks to be enduring, the company is also benefiting from an economic reopening." Yes, outdoor recreation, health, wellness plus an economic reopening. A movement we can all benefit from. So with all of the new runners, walkers and hikers enjoying their new active endeavors, we thought we'd get viewpoints from shoe brands and retailers who recognize that wellness can start in the feet. Like many other changes as a result of the pandemic, today's consumers have a more heightened sense of overall health and well-being. What does the term foot wellness mean to you? We asked consumers to weigh in on wellness and more. Most agree that footwear plays a part in helping their feet and body feel good. We also asked our consumer panel what type of footwear they prefer in summer months. The answer? Sandals. Our spring '22 sandal preview highlights sporty but sophisticated styles with outdoor cred or textural woven slides—with lightweight materials and adjustable upper elements. Turning to our team sports coverage, are you ready for some football? There will be plenty of movement on the gridiron due to a pent-up demand for football this fall. Kids want to be out there, and parents want their children playing sports. We took a look at new alliances and organizations to help grow the game. Jeff Nott CEO & Publisher 4 • July 2021 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com Jeff Nott The way we move now. ON THE HORIZON While the pandemic may have changed our individual fitness pursuits over the past year, will those changes continue? I believe so.

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