In our recent trip to The Running Event trade show, held in December, brands and retailers we spoke to were upbeat, and the show floor was buzzing with positive vibes. Here are a few new trends, products and technologies on our radar for the year ahead.

The new Equipe Atomo performance running shoe from Diadora is ready to make a splash at run retail. And with its accompanying “Postcards from Italy” campaign, the brand aims to elevate and celebrate its Made in Italy story.

Outdoor participation trends have shifted over the past two years. And performance apparel brands, who remain laser-focused on sustainability, style and fabric tech, are also designing with an evolving consumer base in mind.

New year, new takes on the red-hot casual sneaker style trend. Whether for light workouts, walks around the block, kicking it on the couch or at the office, these new styles combine a cool factor to go along with innovative tech. There’s comfort, cushioning, breathability, and more...

Working? Chilling? Dressing up? Dressing down? These product picks get the job done in any situation.

Style is as important as ever for shoppers heading into 2022 — whether trend-right clogs, rugged boots or sleek slip-ons, the consumer demand for chic hasn’t changed. What is different? Consumers aren’t interested in compromise. If the shoes don’t feel right, they’re not an option.

The latest material innovations elevate not only how footwear functions but also how it feels. This is achieved in a few different ways: Some suppliers prefer materials that are hard, while others lean into materials that are soft, with both camps looking for a product that is “just right.”

It used to be that all it took to stay warm during the cold days of winter was a next-to-skin layer of clothing for wicking, a midlayer for warmth, outerwear for weather protection and you were good to go. It was a simple, straightforward system for snow days.

Even as it remains a key part of every uniform, team headwear has certainly not escaped the dual challenges of COVID cancellations and supply chain disruptions for the past year.

Our hosiery vendor roundtable discussion focuses on supply chain issues, custom versus stock and fashion trends.

Americans are quitting work in record numbers and many economists expect the “Great Resignation” to extend well into 2022. While some people (primarily Baby Boomers) are opting to retire or start their own businesses, others are remaining on the sidelines due to COVID fears or childcare issues.