sportstyle

36 • May/June 2023 36 • May/June 2023 ICEBREAKER e Merino wool specialists at Icebreaker see plenty of opportunity for growth in running, and the brand's ZoneKnit collection is its broadest run-focused line. Garments in the line utilize body-mapping for warmth and ventilation where it's needed most. ZoneKnit tees, leggings and shorts feature the brand's CooLite fabric, combining Merino's natural thermoregulating, moisture wicking and odor-resistant properties with Tencel. "We're noticing more and more consumers searching for natural alternatives to synthetic performance apparel," says Noah Bryan, Icebreaker's GM, North America. "Our ZoneKnit run assortment leverages nature's performance fiber, merino alongside our innovative body-mapping technology. Merino is lightweight, thermoregulating, moisture wicking, and odor resistant. At Icebreaker we believe nature has the answers. Our ZoneKnit collection is designed for high performance activities, keeping runners naturally cool and comfortable." JUNK e Big Bang Lite headband is designed to stay put during even the most intense workouts. It's super light and breathable, easily washable, and sweat-wicking thanks to JUNK's Technical T-shirt fabric. Matt Garrett, who handles B2B sales, endurance sports for JUNK Brands, says runners gravitate to the brand's headbands for their performance qualities as well as the thousands of quality designs available — "so our customers can easily express their individual style." Specialty retail is crucial for the brand, he says: "Working with retailers is essential to the way we do business. Run specialty stores oen serve as the hub for local running communities and they are oen the first point of contact for athletes looking for the latest trends in athletic gear. Working with specialty retailers provides us with valuable insights into the requirements and preferences of customers, enabling us to stay ahead of emerging market trends."

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