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runstylemag.com Spring 2025 runstyle 19 it has a dual-lacing system, which is really unique. It gives us something to talk about." Runner's Roost Lakewood was an early adopter of Altra and continues to do well with the brand, including the new 4mm-drop Experience range. e store has also found success adding Topo to give runners another low-drop alternative. Estes-Alderman said, "We find that if we only have one option in the category, it doesn't sell as well because runners don't feel like they have a selection." In apparel, Vuori remains "really hot" while younger consumers are gravitating to Lululemon. However, apparel overall has "slowed a little bit this year," which Estes- Alderman believes is due to consumers prioritizing "highly functional" items such as shoes, socks and nutrition to support their run while pulling back on more discretionary purchases amid economic uncertainties. She similarly hears more inquiries about sales and price points. She makes sure the store stocks some everyday trainers as some super shoes and maximal shoes have risen to the $160 to $170 levels. Estes-Alderman said, "at way they feel like they have choices." Estes-Alderman notes that running, fitness and walking remain "extremely huge" in Colorado, pointing to growing interest in rucking, or training with a weighted backpack or vest on, and how training is starting for the major marathons and trail running races. She also notes that most of her customers are those looking to walk for fitness and social reasons. She adds, "Our expectations are high. We think there's a lot of business out there to be had." At Wisconsin-based Goodmiles Running Co., the start of the year has been "more difficult" compared to the year-ago period, but sales are still trending up from 2023, said David Sajdak, director of merchandising of Midwest Shoe Merchants, the running stores' parent. He added, "ere is a lot going on in the world right now and we hear about it at the fitting stools in our stores. Tariffs have been a popular talking point from our customers. We are cautiously optimistic for this year, but are making sure our inventory is well managed." Among brands, Brooks is a standout at its two locations in Brookfield and Greenfield. Said Sajdak, "eir current product assortment is outstanding. e fit and feel of their shoes allow them to win at the register." He also noted that Hoka's updated Bondi 9 is performing better than expected and he's anticipating strong sell-throughs of the Clion 10 that arrives in April will help drive sales this year. In non-footwear categories, Feetures continues to perform well with spring colorways "off to a great start." Midwest Shoe Merchants, which also operates Stan's Shoes and Waxberg's Walk Shoppe in Wisconsin, is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2025. Sajdak said, "Our main goal is to make our customers happy and focus on what we can control within our four walls." Brendan Barrett, owner of Smithtown and Sayville Running Co. on Long Island has been scrambling to recover from a fire that has kept his Sayville location closed since late October. A temporary spot opened nearby to drive some recovery in the following months although February was a challenge due to chilly weather and a tough year-ago comparison. In footwear, Mizuno's Neo Zen has seen a particularly healthy launch at the Smithtown as well as the temporary Sayville spot. e Diadora Nucleo 2 has also been performing well and Barrett believes marks a "big jump forward" for the Italian brand. New Balance's 880s' update has been "pretty solid" and both Brooks and Hoka continue to see strength. Overall, Barrett still sees most runners seeking out maximal shoes. He said, "It's maybe not quite as high of a demand as it was six months to a year ago, but it's still skewing that way." Apparel has been a challenge due to stock challenges tied to the fire, said Barrett. In accessories, a newer standout has been Neversecond, a nutrition brand with "a lot of flavors" that came from the cycling space. Competitor Maurten also continues to sell well. Barrett said he's focused on getting the Sayville store back up and running and isn't sure whether talks of trade wars are impacting sales. He said, "I feel like everyone's holding their breath and waiting to see." n Smithtown and Sayville Running Co. is bouncing back from a fire at one of its locations. Goodmile Running Co. in Wisconsin.

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