Exclusive Insight: Gymshark launches debut footwear with performance brand R.A.D
Global gym and fitness apparel brand Gymshark has launched its first-ever footwear products in collaboration with British performance footwear brand R.A.D.
The collaboration brings together two of the UK_s biggest exports in the performance space and comes in response to calls from the Gymshark community to expand into footwear to complement its apparel training exclusive ranges. While for R.A.D._ the move marks its biggest and most high-profile collaboration to date_ as it continues to expand its reach within the UK and US fitness communities.
The limited-edition Gymshark and R.A.D footwear exclusive range_ launching on September 10 online at Gymshark.com_ features two of R.A.D_s shoe models_ its R.A.D One V2 and R-1 shoe styles_ which have been reimagined in Gymshark_s trademark muted colour palette_ featuring white silver_ weighted purple_ pebble grey and triple black.
The R.A.D One V2 has been designed for all-around training_ delivering 360 stability for lifting_ ultimate grip_ durability and flexibility and specific design features to withstand movements including rope climbs_ handstand push-ups_ toes to bar and burpees_ while the R-1 is a lightweight and versatile cross-training shoe_ tuned for gym_ HIIT and run training. Both styles will retail for 130 pounds.
Ben Francis_ founder and chief executive of Gymshark_ said in a statement: “Gymshark isn_t a sports brand_ or an athleisure brand - it_s a gym brand. A year ago_ we launched our _We Do Gym_ campaign_ putting our stake in the ground and claiming we had everything you would ever need for the gym_ but we could never offer the full complete wardrobe - until now.
“We knew that if we were to bring out a shoe_ it needed to not only look great_ but also one that was going to perform. One that the community would love and use both in and out of the gym. I_ve been a huge fan of what R.A.D has been doing from the outset - as a brand_ Ben and the team have changed the game in the training footwear space. R.A.D shoes aren_t just built for performance - they also look better than any other performance shoe you_ll find on the gym floor. We wouldn_t collaborate on a shoe with just anyone - these guys are trailblazers in the training space_ and I couldn_t think of a better brand to do it with.”
Ben Massey_ founder of R.A.D_ added: “For us_ this collab is wild. To have the Gymshark logo sitting on our shoes_ a brand that_s become a global symbol of training_ is a real pinch-me moment.
"We_ve always seen ourselves as the underdog_ building from the ground up_ so teaming up with a giant in the gym space feels like worlds colliding in the best way.”
