Right now, I am at the beginning of building this small business. I won't tell you that I'm going to do something that's never been done, because I don't think that's true. We've all tried and tested running apparel from lots of different brands. But I will tell you that I don't see it being done exactly how I want it to be.

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I don't see a brand out there that ticks all the boxes I want it to tick. I want to create a business that produces high quality running apparel that is tailored to the shape of women who are not a typically athletic build. Then, I want the fabrics to be of the best quality, sourced from responsible merchants that are either recycling existing waste textiles or using fabrics from sustainable natural sources (and I'll be triple checking the certifications!)

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Not only that, but I want those products made in the UK. Not shipped across the world further contributing to the issues our planet faces, but from a facility I can visit - and in turn, support another small business at the same time. 

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I don't see all those things being done right now by any brand. It's usually a mixture of some of those things, but not all of them and I don't want to make those compromises.​​

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I also see a gap with the existing brands that doesn't address how our bodies change when we exercise. Some of us gain muscle, some of us lose weight but regardless it often means changing our gear because it not longer serves us in the way it once did. Sometimes it's ready for textile bin, or we can try to resell on to someone else.

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I'd like to take your kit back; fix it up, and sell it on again. Creating a little eco-system where the kit can continue to work hard for our environment and for our bodies. It would also mean I can sell the pre-loved items at a reduced rate which may provide an entry point for my products where, at full price, they might be out of reach budget wise. I have such big dreams and aspirations for the business that may not fit the traditional business model - but what is life without doing things a little differently?

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These are the ideals which exist only in my head at the moment - but I thought I'd share with you how I see this panning out if I manage to get it off the ground in the first place.

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If I was to really get ahead of myself I have two future aspirations for the business that go beyond apparel - I want to create safe spaces for women to run and I want to move towards children's workout apparel. I recognise my influence as a role model to my two daughters. They want to do what I'm doing (which includes a lot of running!) and they need some high performing workout gear too.

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My hope for OUT Running is more than a brand. It’s an inclusive movement that supports women through all stages of their lives.

 

And I'm proper pleased you’re OUT Running with me.

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Sophie