Cole Haan is taking on the performance running market after gaining traction with lifestyle sneakers.
Expanding on its popular Zerøgrand footwear line, the Zerøgrand Overtake and the Zerøgrand Outpace imbue the brand’s signature craftsmanship with performance-ready attributes for men and women.
“Our customers work for what they believe in and we endeavor to support them every step of the way through the products we make and the experiences we offer,” said Cole Haan president David Maddocks.
Launched on June 6, both of the new Zerøgrand running shoes feature “tuned midsole foam” and a stabilizing, midfoot-supporting heel counter, which offer improved energy return and cushioning while optimizing fit.
At $150, the Zerøgrand Outpace boasts a lightweight, highly cushioned, low-profile construction that is engineered for speed.
Designed for general training, the Outpace offers consumers a generous amount of foam and rubber traction spots in high-contact areas, while an open-cell foam sockliner adds comfort and improves shock absorption during longer runs.
Priced at $170, the Zerøgrand Overtake incorporates breathable mesh and cushioning designed for maximum response and return for high-intensity sessions. A full-length rubber outsole is designed to enhance traction.
According to Maddocks, consumers are “demanding versatility in the products they choose to use every day—whether it’s for work or working out, or both.” Cole Haan’s entrée into performance running delivers “on all fronts,” he added.
The launch follows on the heels of Allbirds‘ foray into the performance running space after successfully carving out a niche in sustainable lifestyle footwear. According to NPD data, the athletic footwear category has suffered mightily amid the coronavirus pandemic, despite reports of quarantined consumers newly taking to the pavement to resolve their cabin fever.