Skechers USA, Inc. announced a new, multi-year agreement with famed distance runner, Meb Keflezighi, under the Skechers Performance Division. Keflezighi will continue as the official brand ambassador for the GOrun line of athletic footwear through 2016.
The ongoing partnership is a testament to Skechers Performance Division’s commitment to the category and dedicated focus on developing innovative technical shoes in the GOrun platform specifically for runners-ranging from serious elite runners to weekend warriors.
“Our relationship with Meb has been instrumental in elevating Skechers Performance and GOrun into the award-winning line that it is today,” said Michael Greenberg, Skechers President. “Meb’s hands-on approach, tireless commitment and genuine love of the brand and products have further solidified our partnership, and we are looking forward to future successes, both for Skechers and Meb, in the years to come.”
Originally signed in 2011, Meb’s role has evolved from appearing in media campaigns and racing in Skechers Performance footwear (in which he has won multiple accolades including the Houston Trials in 2012 and the first American finisher in London) to a deeper integration with the brand in the design and development process.
Rick Higgins, Vice President of Merchandising/Marketing for Skechers Performance Division said: “We really have enjoyed working with Meb-he's aided us tremendously with our specialty running accounts, and we are excited to launch a new product line, Skechers GO MEB, for our segmented distribution.” Meb’s namesake line will serve as the elite running platform and consists of the GO MEB Speed 2, Meb’s official racing shoe, and the GO MEB Strada, Skechers Performance Divisions’ first 8mm neutral running shoe. The line will be targeted for specialty accounts and priced from $90-$140.
Additionally, Meb will continue to appear in media with an expanded global marketing campaign for print, broadcast and digital. He will also continue working hand-in-hand with the Skechers Performance Division in testing and developing new products in the Skechers GOrun category.
“I'm grateful for Skechers’ unconditional support during the last few years, and I am so excited to be working with the Performance Division for three more years,” said Meb. “If it wasn't for the support and Skechers GOrun midfoot technology, I may not have won the 2012 Olympic Trials, finished 4th in the 2012 Olympics Games and run two personal bests in the marathon. I run to get the best out of myself and to inspire others to do the same. I am thankful to Skechers for giving me the support I need to do what I love.”
