DESIGNING
FOR WOMEN
Brands share insight on the
process behind making and
marketing footwear, gear and
apparel for female runners.
By Mackenzie Havey / According to RunRepeat's State of Running, 2018 was the first time in history that
female runners outnumbered male runners at just over 50 percent. More recently, the race results database,
Athlinks, discovered that by the end of 2022, female participation in races had increased to 54 percent.
Niche corners of the market are attracting more women as well. RunRepeat's Ultrarunning report indicates
that female participation in ultrarunning has steadily gained ground over the past quarter century. In the trail
running category, 46 percent of participants are female, representing more than a three-fold increase since
1997. Watching these trends closely are the brands who cater to women runners, both those training for their
first 5K and those who are vying for an Olympic berth. From improved fit, to innovations in materials, and
evolving aesthetics, running brands are working hard to keep pace with changing demands.
sportstylemag.com • sportstyle January/February 2024 • 11
