To celebrate one of the greatest weeks in running, Runner’s World and Salomon are collaborating on a pop-up experience on Newbury Street in Boston called the Runner’s World Townhouse.
Open from Friday, April 12, through Tuesday, April 16, the Townhouse will feature a Test Zone where runners will have an opportunity to demo the latest Predict RA and Sonic RA shoes from Salomon and contribute to the Runner’s World shoe-testing program, attend seminars led by Boston luminaries, take part in group runs with the magazine’s editors, and purchase exclusive merchandise, as well as participate in guided yoga and meditation sessions.
“Runner’s World is a key partner for Salomon, and this collab provides a meaningful opportunity to share our passions and connect not only with established runners, but also inspire new and aspiring athletes to get out there with us as well,” says Jenny Taylor, brand director for Salomon in North America. “These athletes and their families have spent so much time training and preparing for this day, and we want to give them a fun, community-driven experience that they can enjoy as a result of that hard work.”
The Runner’s World Test Zone, created to mirror the industry-leading Runner’s World testing program, will allow runners and non-runners alike to become active participants in the footwear testing process. After signing up for pre-arranged time slots (sign up here), runners will be fitted with the latest Salomon road shoes for a test run, either on the streets or on a treadmill within the Townhouse, and then provide feedback on the shoes for use in upcoming shoe reviews.
“The Runner’s World Test Zone in partnership with Salomon is a first-of-its-kind initiative for the brand,” says Runner’s World Publisher Paul Collins. “Inviting our readers, race runners and non-runners alike to participate in our official testing program offers a unique opportunity to engage with enthusiasts and fans of the brand in a completely new way. We’re looking forward to our guests enjoying a fun-filled weekend filled with memorable programming.”
Leading up to race day, the Townhouse will host daily group runs, yoga and stretching classes, guided meditation sessions, and opportunities to build custom cheer cards. Additionally, the Runner’s World Seminar Series will feature distinguished speakers covering a variety of topics throughout the weekend, from injury prevention and race strategy to storytelling and goal setting. Speakers include Ryan Hall, the fastest American to ever complete the Boston race, Jeff Dengate, runner-in-chief of Runner’s World, and Amby Burfoot, the 1968 Boston champion.
“This race holds a special kind of energy, not just for the runners and their supporters, but for the thousands of people that turn out each year to line the streets of Boston. It exemplifies the spirit of play and community that is central to Salomon’s values, and to have a welcoming space like the Townhouse to be a part of this energy is really exciting,” says Massachusetts native Heather Pieraldi, global footwear director for Salomon.
At the Runner’s World Townhouse, Salomon will have its latest road running footwear available for testing and purchase, including the award-winning Predict RA, the brand’s latest innovation in cushion technology, and the full Sonic RA 2 collection. Both are available now at salomon.com.
