Adidas looking for New York victory lap in marathon shoe wars
Adidas is seeking another high-profile win at the New York City Marathon after runners wearing its shoes won eight World Marathon Majors this year. Its Running sector revenue rose 19% in the company’s record third quarter.
1. Adidas seeks another win
Adidas will look to Kenyan runner Benson Kipruto to defend his New York City Marathon title on Sunday. The company’s athletes have recorded eight wins at World Marathon Majors this year, and Adidas says its Running sector revenue rose 19% in its record-breaking third quarter.
2. Faster shoe development
Adidas said more than 100 people now work on running shoe innovation, compared with a few dozen some years ago. Patrick Nava, general manager for Adidas Running, said the core work on its modern elite Evo line took nine months, versus 18 to 24 months for a typical running shoe.
3. Nike remains a competitor
Nike said its Running business has recorded six consecutive quarters of double-digit growth, despite weaker marathon results. The company said its athletes accounted for six of the top 10 men’s finishes and three of the top five women’s finishes at the Chicago Marathon. On, Asics and Under Armour are also competing in the running shoe market.
