By the Numbers - Steady Wins the Race

Year-to-date, the run-specialty channel is modestly ahead of 2024 — up roughly 2% YTD compared to 2024. It’s not headline-grabbing growth, but given the current retail environment, maintaining upward momentum is meaningful.

By comparison, the outdoor-specialty channel is flat compared to last year, with data showing brick-and-mortar holding steady, while online slips a few points. Overall sporting-goods ‘specialty’ retail is up in the ~4-5% range year-over-year, with footwear sales driven by lower-priced running silhouettes. The takeaway?  The run-specialty channel is performing in line with — and in some cases slightly better than — its specialty-retail peers.

Some tough 2025 Headwinds

There are a few headwinds that are suppressing higher growth in the run-specialty channel this year:

1. Tough start to the year:  Weather is always a factor, and in the first quarter, severe weather prevented stores from matching 2024’s strong start, when the country experienced a relatively mild winter. 

2. Elevated cost structure – Running Insight reports that retailers continue to face high rent, shipping and labour costs. One industry piece described 2025 as a year of “cost of doing business” pressure for run specialty retailers.

3. Consumer caution and value mindset – With tariff fears in the background in the first half, and very real tariffs implications driving prices higher, many consumers are either waiting to make purchases or choosing more cost-conscious options,  

Why this still matters

Despite those headwinds, the fact that the run-specialty channel is maintaining growth is a positive signal. In a retail environment where many specialty segments are flat, the capability to grow—even modestly—demonstrates resilience. For stakeholders, the message is:

• Your channel remains relevant and competitive.
  
  
• Holding ground or gaining a little is a success given the macro-environment.
  
  
• Continued focus on compelling footwear innovation, community engagement, and value-led consumer messaging will help convert modest growth into stronger momentum.

Data Source - Sports Marketing Surveys 2025 3rd Quarter report