Saucony Toes the Line with Launch of Performance Sock Collection
Rounding out a complete head-to-toe performance brand experience, Saucony, Inc. today announced the launch of its running-specific sock collection just in time for summer’s hot weather running and set to target the running specialty retail channel.
Get access to everything we publish when you sign up for Outside+.
LEXINGTON, MA (July 20, 2009) – Rounding out a complete head-to-toe performance brand experience, Saucony, Inc. today announced the launch of its running-specific sock collection just in time for summer’s hot weather running. Recognizing the need for a technology-driven sock to complement its award-winning footwear and apparel, the Saucony Performance Sock Collection will be targeted at the running specialty retail channel where the brand continues to experience vigorous marketplace momentum.
“Today’s runners expect just as much from their socks as they do from their shoes and apparel,†said Todd Dalhausser, general manager of Saucony Apparel. “In developing our sock collection, we leveraged our resources and technologies across both the footwear and apparel categories─technical fabrications, engineered fits and refined details─to help runners reach their full performance potential,†he added.
The Saucony Performance Sock collection includes two sock styles designed for the most demanding of runners, offering comfort and durability in ankle and quarter-height profiles. Built with a breathable construction, all styles in the collection are made with moisture-wicking fibers to keep feet cool and dry.
The Elite sock features left-right technology in a low ankle cut with an extended heel shield that protects the Achilles area against friction. The Quarter Tech features a quarter height cut to help keep out debris. Both the Elite and Quarter Tech styles feature COOLMAX® fabric providing superior wicking characteristics, an ergonomic design that supports the arch, and a strategically placed terry foot bed and seamless toe for maximum comfort and durability.
The collection’s four sock offerings: the Elite (SRP: $12.00); the Quarter Tech(SRP: $10.00); the Women’s 3 Pair Pack (SRP: $15.00); and the Men’s 3 Pair Pack (SRP: $15.00) are available at select running specialty retailers nationwide.
According to data from The Leisure Trends Group’s Running RetailTRAK, 3.3M pairs of socks were sold at the running specialty retail channel over a 12 month period ending September 2008 for $32 million in retail dollars. The running specialty retail channel is the target distribution channel for the Saucony Performance Sock Collection.
“The sock market has drastically changed over the past ten years,†said Dalhausser. “Because today’s socks are engineered to improve performance for particular activities, runners are now turning to running specialty retailers for their knowledge of sock technologies to find the right pair of socks for their specific needs.â€
To support the Saucony sock launch, participating running specialty retailers have received a free Saucony-branded display rack. Additionally, in order to experience the benefits of Saucony performance socks, the brand will be seeding both retailers and consumers.
For samples or additional information, contact Jeff Lawrence at Mullen: 978-468-8945 or jeff.lawrence@mullen.com, or Sharon Barbano at Saucony: 617-824-6126 or sharon.barbano@saucony.com
To find a retailer near you, please call 1.800.365.4933 or visit www.saucony.com.
About Saucony, Inc.: Saucony, Inc., a subsidiary of Collective Brands and a division of The Stride Rite Corporation is a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel with its widely recognized brands Saucony and Saucony Originals. For more information, go to www.saucony.com.
About Collective Brands, Inc.: Collective Brands, Inc. (NYSE: PSS) is a leader in bringing compelling lifestyle, fashion and performance brands for footwear and related accessories to
consumers worldwide. The company operates three strategic units as well as multiple price points and selling channels. Collective Brands, Inc. includes Payless ShoeSource, focused on democratizing fashion and design in footwear and accessories through its more than 4,500-store retail chain; Stride Rite, focused on lifestyle and athletic branded footwear and high-quality children’s footwear sold primarily through wholesaling, with its brands including Stride Rite®, Keds®, Sperry Top-Sider®, Robeez®, and Saucony®, among others; and Collective Licensing International, the brand development, management and global licensing unit. Information about each of the Collective Brand’s units can be found at http://www.collectivebrands.com.
