We are excited to announce the upcoming Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon Weekend, set to take place on March 1-3, 2024. This is your invitation to join us for this thrilling event and actively participate in the festivities.

The Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon is not just a race; it’s a celebration of our vibrant community and a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a novice looking for a challenge, there’s a race category for everyone. With a variety of distances available, including the full marathon, half marathon, and 5k, you can choose the one that suits your fitness level and goals.

Here are some reasons why you should consider running at the Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon Weekend:

Unforgettable Scenery: The race takes you on a breathtaking journey through our beautiful city, showcasing its natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and scenic views. As you traverse the course, you’ll be captivated by the charm of Chattanooga.

Community Spirit: The marathon brings together runners from all walks of life, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and support. Cheer on the participants as they push their limits and witness the power of community as we come together to celebrate their achievements.

Family-Friendly Activities: The Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon Weekend isn’t just about running. It’s about exploring the city on and off the course! Chattanooga is rich in history, full of entertainment, and offers delicious cuisines from all over the world. Bring your loved ones to explore the Scenic City and make it a memorable visit for everyone.

Inspiring Stories: Prepare to be inspired by the stories of perseverance and determination from the participants. Witness the incredible journeys of individuals who have overcome challenges and crossed the finish line against all odds.

Health and Wellness: The Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon promotes a healthy and active lifestyle. Join us in encouraging fitness and well-being within our community.

We invite you to mark your calendar for March 1-3, 2024 and join us at The Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon. Whether you decide to participate as a runner, volunteer, or spectator, your presence will contribute to the success of this remarkable event.

Register .

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Early April is a time of renewal in Washington, D.C. It’s a time when days grow longer faster than at any other time of year; a time of cool mornings and warm afternoons; a time when sap is rising, trees are budding, and forsythia, azaleas, star magnolias, redbuds, Bradford pears, and cherries burst into bloom; a time to celebrate revival and rebirth, and it’s a time to kick off the surge of spring and early summer road races in the mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Midwest of the U.S.

That’s where the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile & 5K, the “Runner’s Rite of Spring,” rises to the occasion with a spectacular venue for runners who ache to burst out of the winter doldrums.�� It’ll be 51 years old in 2024—or should we say 51 years young, since in 2023 it underwent a facelift that made it more popular than ever. More popular? Last year in addition to 16,000+ finishers in the 10 Mile—after turning away 6,000 unlucky applicants to the lottery—there were�� 7,000 in the rebranded 5K, up from less than 3,000 finishers in previous years. In addition to those 23,000, hundreds participate in the Kids’ Run on Saturday, where children 12-years-and-younger scamper excitedly through the streets of downtown DC.��

The races fall in the middle of the three-week- long National Cherry Blossom Festival, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. They come not just to enjoy the glory of 3,000+ cherry trees in bloom, but to tour monuments and memorials honoring people and events throughout American history. Within walking distance of the 10 Mile start and finish are ten memorials and museums: the Washington Monument which towers over the staging area, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, Vietnam Women’s Memorial, African American History Museum, Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, and the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. The White House, at the back of the emerald expanse of the South Lawn, is within sight of the Monument Grounds. The area in and around the start/finish is a banquet of American history lessons.

But hey, you won’t have much time for sightseeing while you’re in the 10 Mile race, because it’s really fast. It’s almost flat, and temperatures range from an average of 45 at dawn to 65 in mid-afternoon (45 to 59 F, according to Runner’s Blueprint, is the “temperature sweet spot” for distance running). If you’re looking for a 10 mile personal best, your chances are excellent for finding it here. Among the top 10 men and women, personal bests have been set 48 times since 2017 (in the “super shoe” era)—and 27 times in the four years before super shoes, so you won’t need super shoes to get your PB.����

Moreover, in your results book you will see an age-graded quotient for the purposes of measuring your performance against elite runners as well as anyone else in the race relative to age. Online calculators such as runbundle.com can provide equivalent times at various distances. For example, a 10 mile time of 1 hour 30 minutes for a 60-year-old is the equivalent of 4:10 in a marathon against other 60-year-olds.��

Since its inception in 1973, the event has been the venue for multiple world and American records—the first being Julie Shea’s AR 57:04 in 1975, and the most recent being Hillary Bor’s AR 46:11 in 2023, besting by two seconds a 40-year-old record also set at Cherry Blossom by Greg Meyer in 1983.��

Bor’s feat won the 2023 U.S. 10 Mile Championships and took home $12,000 for first-place prize plus a $50,000 bonus for the American record.�� Sara Hall at age 39 won the U.S. title in 52:37, edging out the 2021 champion Nell Rojas by a single second.��

The course is gorgeous and fast—especially miles 7-9 which are almost perfectly straight, perfectly flat, and flanked with cherry trees on both sides. But there’s more that makes it runner-friendly. Runners are welcomed with five water and medical aid stops manned by dozens of smiling volunteers, police and course marshals ensuring you stay on the course, and can’t-miss-it mile markers.

A rebranded 5K now takes place on Pennsylvania Avenue in downtown D.C. on the Saturday before the 10 Mile, with its own claim to an historic setting. It starts and finishes three blocks from the White House and with most of the course in plain view of the U.S. Capitol building.��

Moving the 5K to Saturday in 2023 instead of the traditional Sunday created a new challenge for adventuresome runners: the “Double Blossom” competition combining the 5K and 10 mile times, with its own T-shirt and medal. In its first year, 1,639 runners finished the Double Blossom.

The 5K start and finish at Freedom Plaza places it within walking distance of still more attractions steeped in American history: the National Art Museum, the National Museum of Women in the Arts, and Ford’s Theatre where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, hosting 650,000 visitors a year, and the National Building Museum (venue for the Expo on Friday night and Saturday).��

Blossoms, Memorials, and a fast course in the opening days of Springtime. You don’t want to miss it. Find details at

All photos are property of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile.

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Are you ready to embark on your next cycling adventure? (AKA “Hoppers”) invites you to experience the thrill of exploration, camaraderie, and raw beauty of Northern California’s hidden landscapes. Dive into the world of unconventional, grassroots bike racing, where adventure knows no bounds.

Hoppers are held monthly, starting in January through late May each year and they have long attracted top pros seeking early season training. While drawing an experienced and competitive field, the events also welcome riders who are new to gravel touring and have become “must do” events for Northern Californians seeking fun and challenging adventures.

A Unique Cycling Experience

Hoppers are the longest running gravel/mixed terrain adventure series, making the series a true pioneer in the field. Founded in 1998 by Miguel Crawford (2023 Gravel Hall of Fame Inductee), the events called for a variety of bike types which helped spark interest in “gravel riding” and inspired the creation of a new genre of bikes.��

Unlike your typical cycling event, Hoppers are a celebration of the spirit of adventure and pursuit of the unknown. From elite athletes to those newer to gravel riding, everyone is welcome to test their mettle in these one-of-a-kind adventures. Hoppers encourage self-reliance. It’s important to be self-sufficient; able to navigate using the downloadable GPS routes, capable of fixing a flat, and willing to push yourself. This isn’t your average race; it’s an adventure that pushes your boundaries and inspires independence.

As Ted King asked and answered, “What is the Grasshopper ���ϳԹ��� Series? It’s everything that’s right about bike riding as we know it! It’s fun, it’s camaraderie, it’s mass start, it’s gravel, and it’s badass.”

The Grasshopper ���ϳԹ��� Series Offers:

• Scenic Diversity:�� Participants traverse a variety of terrains; winding backroads, gravel paths, and dirt tracks. Discover breathtaking vistas, serene forests, and remote routes that you won’t find on a conventional race course.
• Unparalleled Support:�� From roaming course marshalls to provide assistance if needed, pre-ride videos to educate you on the course, well-stocked rest stops providing Skratch hydration and assorted snacks (be sure to stop for the hot grilled cheese), and a post-ride party with food and drinks, the Hoppers are a full immersion experience!��
• Inclusive Community: Join a passionate community of riders that shares your love for cycling and exploration. Hoppers are as much about forging new friendships as they are about pedaling through uncharted territory. All levels of riders, from those new to gravel to World Cup pros, are welcome and neither USA Cycling nor UCI licenses are required; everyone is able to register! Podiums for male, female and non-binary categories are offered and all participants are celebrated.
• Financial Support to Non-Profits: ��A portion of each registration is donated to a variety of nonprofits working to improve lives and the communities where Hoppers are held. Organizations receiving financial support from the 2024 Hoppers include the NorCal Interscholastic Cycling League, Redwood Trails Alliance, ���ϳԹ��� Therapy Foundation, Be Good Foundation, Redwood Forest Foundation and various high school mountain bike teams who will be helping with event rest stops.

Join the ���ϳԹ��� Today!

Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast seeking a new challenge or an adventurer at heart looking to connect with like-minded individuals, Hoppers promise an unforgettable experience. Register for a 2024 Hopper event and embark on the journey of a lifetime! Explore NorCal secret routes, test your limits, and connect with the adventure-loving community that makes Hoppers truly special. It’s not just a race: it’s an experience you’ll treasure forever!��

All the details and registration info: ��

Follow the action: @grasshopperadventureseries

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SURF CITY, USA – Huntington Beach is home to one of the greatest marathons on the west coast. A winter destination race, the Surf City Marathon and Half Marathon offers runners a fast, flat, picturesque course along the city’s signature coastline.��

The start and finish line is located on California’s Pacific Coast Highway 101 and the course runs past the famous Huntington Beach pier. With the encouragement of local surfers cheering participants along the way, runners find the atmosphere unique and inspiring.

A SoCal institution, the Surf City Marathon has been welcoming athletes to test their mettle on the Pacific Coast Highway for 28 years. This race has something for everyone—whether you want to gut it out for a Boston-qualifier at the front of the pack or simply embrace the laid back, unique surf culture of Huntington Beach. Here are five reasons you need to put Surf City USA on your running bucket list.

1. Race Weekend Extravaganza: The Surf City USA Marathon is not just a race; it is an entire weekend of excitement. From the Active Lifestyle Beach Expo to Saturday’s Beach Mile on the Sand, plus a 5K and half-marathon distances, race weekend features three days of events and a distance for everyone, but it’s a festive atmosphere under the palm tree-lined streets that adds to the overall “big race” experience.

2. Surf Culture Vibe: The Southern California vibes are strong at this iconic beachfront race. A classic VW Bus surf sedan leads the race to a soundtrack of the Beach Boys and runners are serenaded by surf rock music as they make their way along the scenic course. Because the Surf City Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of the unique surf culture that defines Huntington Beach and Southern California. From the moment you step onto the course, you’ll be immersed in the relaxed, beachy atmosphere that this region is famous for.

3. Soak up the Scenic Views: The course takes you on a journey through the heart of Huntington Beach. You’ll start with views of the iconic Huntington Beach Pier and Main Street, then venture through Huntington Central Park, offering a scenic and diverse running experience. Just past Mile 9, you’ll be treated to the sights and sounds of the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife and birds. It’s a unique and peaceful stretch of the race that you won’t find in many other marathons. A significant portion of the race follows a beachfront running path, allowing you to soak in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as you run along Bolsa Chica State Beach. It’s truly a runner’s paradise.

4. Set a New Personal Best: Temperate Southern California winter temperatures plus a pancake-flat course create the perfect conditions for setting a PR. Plus, with 20,000-plus runners, you’ll always have a little bit of company to help push you along. If you are aspiring to run the prestigious Boston Marathon, the Surf City USA Marathon serves as a “qualifier.” It’s an opportunity to earn your spot in one of the most renowned marathons in the world.

5. Celebrate with Live Music—plus some swag. More than a race, the Surf City Marathon is an outdoor party. Enjoy live music in the Michelob Ultra Beer Garden or snap a selfie with your feet in the ocean at the post-race festival on the beach. All finishers receive a classic surfboard shaped medal.

In conclusion, the Surf City Marathon offers more than just a race—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant surf culture of Southern California, run a scenic and flat course, and be part of a community that values health and fitness. Whether you’re aiming to qualify for Boston or simply looking for a memorable race experience, Surf City USA has it all. So, lace up your running shoes, embrace the beachy vibes, and join the thousands of runners who make their way to Huntington Beach for this iconic event.

Pro Tip: Register early to take advantage of special savings—and see you on the start line on February 4th, 2024.��

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On June 2, 2024, 2,000 athletes will descend to Lower Township, NJ to test their mettle and resilience as they literally leap into the 11th Annual DeSatnick Real Estate Escape the Cape Triathlon Presented by Inspira Health.

The Delaware River and Bay Authority’s Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal in Lower Township, NJ will once again host this unique endurance event, created by DelMoSports.�� Thousands of spectators will line the race course, from the starting point at the Ferry to the finish line on the Terminal’s boardwalk.�� From the incredible start, with the athletes leaping 12 feet from the MV Delaware Ferry vessel into the Delaware Bay and swimming ashore, to the gorgeous, closed road bike course through vineyards and beautiful back roads, and on the run along the bay to the Ferry finish line, Escape the Cape is truly unlike any other multisport event.�� Escape the Cape offers two race distances: the Sprint Triathlon: .35-mile swim, 12.5-mile bike, and 5K run; and the Olympic Triathlon: 1 mile swim, 25-mile bike, and 5-mile run.

Voted the Best Triathlon in the Mid-Atlantic and North East Regions, and one of the Top 5 Bucket List Races in the World, Escape the Cape, a USAT Sanctioned Event, has quickly become a “must-do” event, with athletes from 40 states and 4 countries converging on Lower Township for an unforgettable Race weekend. The event has doubled in size since its inception in 2013 and continues to innovate with special offerings, including a brand-new VIP opportunity for both athletes and spectators.�� Launched just prior to the 2023 event, it sold out in 2 weeks.�� For 2024, the VIP program will be expanded to meet the demand of athletes and their families who want to make this special day even more fun.

Registration is already 50% sold out due to a successful pre-sale immediately following the 2023 event. Set your alarms, General Registration will open on Wednesday, September 27th at 6AM ET. Learn more .

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Richmond, Virginia has gained fame for many reasons over the years and is quickly becoming a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, historians, and runners. With nationally-recognized restaurants, craft brews, historic architecture, beautiful trail systems, and plenty of museums—it’s the place to be! Add in running and you’ve got yourself the makings of a stellar runcation. The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and VCU Health Richmond 8k will all take place on Saturday, November 11.��

The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon celebrates its 46th running on Nov. 11. Discover more about America’s Friendliest Marathon on YouTube!

Each route treats runners to a unique and unforgettable tour of Richmond that ends with a renowned downhill finish on the riverfront! Not only are the rolling routes beautiful, but they’re fast too! The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon is a “” for the Boston Marathon. Celebrate your finish line moment at the CoStar Post Race Party while soaking in views of the Mighty James River and cap it off with a complimentary Hardywood craft brew and a slice of Papa Johns pizza. The fall foliage will be on full display while you bask in your accomplishment and Brown’s Island never looks better than with a crowd of happy runners and their fans.

The party isn’t regulated to just the finish line—the course has entertainment for miles. No matter which distance you choose, you’ll be treated to unmatched crowd support, amazing course support, and operational excellence. After 45 years, the Richmond community and all involved in the event are proud to ensure that race weekend delivers on its reputation as America’s Friendliest Marathon. The spectator-friendly routes feature frequent live music, party zones, and spirit groups to keep the energy up at every turn. Aid stations are available every two miles and the well-marked courses are staffed with a cohort of seasoned volunteers on a mission to help you reach the finish line. In addition to your typical offerings, the full and half courses have a pickle juice stop and junk food stations. Pretzels, chocolate, gummy bears, soda, and more await to push you through those final miles.

Runners love their swag, and this race doesn’t disappoint there either. Participants in the and will receive a long-sleeved technical shirt, a finisher hat, a comfy fleece finisher blanket, and a medal. Plus, a special gift awaits those who realize their BQ potential. Those tackling the will receive a long-sleeved technical shirt and a medal.��

This fall, discover why��“America’s Friendliest Marathon” is all that and more on Saturday, November 11 at the 46th running of the ��

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Kauai’s tropical wonderland is the perfect backdrop for , which takes runners through one of the most beautiful racecourses in the world today. Participants glimpse sparkling blue water, pristine white sand beaches and lush mountains during the 14th Annual event on Sunday, September 3, 2023.

The race began with a vision from event founder and avid runner, Jeff Sacchini, while out on a training adventure in Poipu, Kauai. His passion was to create a destination marathon experience on the South Side of the island, and two years later it came to fruition. The inaugural event took place on September 9, 2009, and has continued to bring runners and walkers together during Labor Day weekend ever since. The weekend festivities now include a 2-day sports and fitness expo at the Grand Hyatt Kauai, Fun Run, Wilcox Health Keiki (children’s) Run and the finisher’s festival at Koloa Landing Resort.

The exhilaration of race day begins with the gathering of runners for the warm-up, and many participants’ beverage of choice, Kauai Coffee. As a side note, the ladies at KC are awake at midnight brewing up their finest.

Then it is time to toe the line, which is like no other in road racing. Fiery tiki torches flank the road welcoming runners while the blowing of conch shells signify the beginning of the day. A Hawaiian blessing followed by the singing of Hawai’i Pono’i always gives participants “chicken skin” as they prepare to embark on their own journey along the course. For some, it is a race for a personal best, but for others, it is a run dedicated to a loved one or cause, or a personal goal of completing something they never thought imaginable.

And that is just the beginning. Over 750 Kauai residents volunteer along the course to make sure that every runner and walker is cared for. Whether it is aid station helpers handing out water and electrolytes, neighbors cooking bacon to give participants that extra pep in their step, or a spectator simply giving a high five to keep someone’s spirits up, the island vibe and warm hospitality can be felt by every single participant.

It also doesn’t hurt that along the way you are treated to a gorgeous Kauai sunrise, awe-inspiring views of the historic Tunnel of Trees, cheers from residents in the neighborhoods of Omao, Lawai and Kalaheo, as well as one of the most stunning oceanfront finish lines in the world.

A truly remarkable experience along the course for participants is the sharing of Kauai’s culture and heritage through hula and music. For the 2023 event, organizers are honored to have 2022 Merrie Monarch Overall Winners Hālau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinā‘ala’s seventy-five musicians, dancers, artisans, and chanters along the course – something that you can’t imagine experiencing until it actually happens to you.

The beauty of being part of a full or half marathon (whether you are a spectator, participant, volunteer, or organizer) is that every participant has a story to tell, and watching the diversity of people cross the oceanfront finish line is truly an emotional experience. From tears of laughter and joy, to shear exhaustion from pushing the limits of their bodies, their faces always tell their own unique story. But it doesn’t end there. As the participants make their way through the finisher’s chute, they are lei greeted with a beautiful medal to culminate their own personal journey. A few steps further and they are treated to ice cold beer, refreshments, live music, and plenty of love from friends and family.

And then the relaxation or exhilaration part of the post-race experience can begin, because you have just finished an extraordinary race on one of the most beautiful islands in the world. The choices are endless…You can sail down the Napali Coast, zipline through a tropical rainforest, or literally kick off your shoes and lounge poolside at the Grand Hyatt Kauai and Koloa Landing Resort.

Just like choosing which race to run/walk throughout the year, your post event ritual is all about you. Aloha and we look forward to seeing you on the start line Labor Day weekend!

Register for the 2023 Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon

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It’s cliché yet we’ve all heard it: There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. And while that expression feels trite and overcooked, it especially rings true for outdoor families during cold-weather months. We know it’s often easier to look at the plunging mercury and opt to stay indoors, but we’re here to divulge the secret to happy kids in cold temps: layering.

If done properly, layering can keep the whiniest of children (or adults…) comfortable in the chilliest of weather. But how do you know which layers to use in what conditions? You ask us. We created a comprehensive guide on how to layer for cold weather to take the guesswork out of it. Now, focus your energy on shredding powder and demolishing snowballs rather than stressing over what to wear.����

Why Layer?

Before we dive into the how, let’s chat about the why. The secret sauce of layering exists in what we cannot see: air. Surprisingly, air is a great insulator. When we layer clothing on top of each other, we are trapping pockets of air between the layers. Our body heat then warms the air and the layers keep that cozy space contained next to our skin. That’s why you get hotter as your physical exertion increases. You’re creating more body heat that subsequently sits next to your skin. Bonus: Layering also makes it easy to remove one layer when needed.

Of course, winter’s chilly elements–cold, wind, and moisture–all try to penetrate that snug cocoon of warmth. Choosing the proper layers minimizes this from happening.

How to Layer for Cold Weather

Think of your layering system as a sandwich, just like that peanut-butter-and-jelly combo you stash in your pocket during ski days. Instead of bread, fat, and sugar, we’re looking at three layering components: a base layer, a midlayer, and an outer layer.��

Baselayer

Often referred to as a next-to-skin layer, the baselayer is arguably the most important layer since it is designed to move moisture (like sweat) away from your body. This keeps your skin dry and thus, prevents conditions like hypothermia. Because of this, we think it’s the most important layer to splurge on for your children.

In general, you’re looking at one of two materials: natural fibers like wool and bamboo or synthetics like nylon and polyester. You can go with either, but definitely ditch the cotton. Cotton holds onto moisture, creating a wet layer sitting next to your skin. Not ideal.

Midlayer

Aptly named, the midlayer is the second component of the layering sandwich and sits between the baselayer and the shell. If the baselayer is designed to keep your skin dry, the midlayer keeps you warm. It does this by trapping all the body heat you radiate while playing outside. As a result, the more efficient your midlayer, the warmer you will be.��

Pro tip: We often recommend a second midlayer for small children or babies who are sedentary inside a kid carrier or ski trailer.��

Thanks to the materials, the midlayer typically fits puffier or bulkier than the baselayer. There are a variety of options, but most midlayers are constructed with fleece, wool, down insulation, or synthetic insulation.

Exterior Layer

As the third and final component of the layering trio, the exterior layer (or shell) is the piece of clothing that sits on top of the other two layers. The shell’s purpose is singular: prevent moisture and wind from penetrating the inner layers.��

For adults and older children, the outer layer is often a single layer that is both waterproof and breathable. For younger children and babies, you’ll often find jackets and snowsuits that combine the outer weatherproof layer and the inner insulating midlayer into one item.

Layering Based on Temperature

We now know that a proper layering system is the key to keeping your family warm, but how does that change with different temperatures? Read the handy guide below to give yourself a head start when gearing your family up for the next wintry adventure.

Brisk (40-49 degrees Fahrenheit)

Temps that fall on the warmer side of cool aren’t terribly concerning, but it’s still a good idea to know how to prep your toddlers and babies since they cannot regulate their temperatures as easily as adults.��

In this range, adults and older children should opt for a . Top it off with an outer shell to keep inclement weather out, along with a pair of lightweight liner gloves to keep those fingers toasty. If you inherently run on the cold side, we’d also consider adding an insulating vest to throw on if you get chilly.��

For toddlers and , we still recommend a midweight baselayer like this snazzy set by L.L.Bean. Then, add a fleece midlayer (like this ) along with warmer pants. Wrap it up with an outer layer such as a rain jacket. Don’t forget to include essentials like a hat and warm mittens, along with waterproof boots.��

Cold (20-39 degree Fahrenheit)

For a lot of us, our winter adventures will mainly live in this temperature range. The good news is that it’s easy to keep everyone warm so the fun doesn’t have to stop.

For adults and older children, start with a heavy base layer set on both the top and bottom. Then add in a lightweight synthetic insulated midlayer, like a lightweight puffy jacket. As with warmer temperatures, enclose the entire system in a waterproof-breathable shell jacket and pants.�� At these temps, adults will also want to add both a pair of warm gloves and a beanie like the .��

Younger children and babies should start with a heavy wool base layer as the first item. When possible, find a “onesie” that combines the top and the bottom layer into one article of clothing. Since there isn’t a gap at the waist, it’s easier to trap the warm air inside the baselayer.��

Then, add on a thick fleece jacket and pants as a toasty midlayer. For the shell, use insulating snow pants and a coat like the (available in Mens, Womens and Kids sizes) that will uplevel warmth while also adding water resistance.�� As an alternative, find a one-piece insulating snowsuit that combines both the jacket and pants into one item. Just like the onesie, this will make it easier to keep your babes warm and dry (but also makes diaper changes and potty training a nightmare!) Throw in a beanie��or a balaclava, along with a pair of waterproof mittens For children, it’s important to stick to mittens rather than gloves since they will keep their fingers much warmer.

Finally, consider your child’s feet. At these temps, you always want to use a pair of warm wool socks. Not only will these keep their toes toasty, but the wool continues to warm their extremities even if they get wet. Regardless, don’t bulk up with multiple layers of cotton socks. Not only will the cotton make their feet colder, but the added layers will minimize any wiggle remove and thus, cut off circulation. Don’t forget the snow boots!

Final Thoughts On How to Layer for Cold Weather

Accidents happen–especially with kids. Be prepared and stash an extra layering system (especially the base layers) in a dry bag during any winter adventures. You can thank us later.

The post The Definitive Guide On How to Layer for Cold-Weather ���ϳԹ���s appeared first on ���ϳԹ��� Online.

After a year of Zoom calls and missing out on those face-to-face connections, we’ve learned it’s the relationships, the human touch, that make our industry tick. All the digital tools in the world can’t make up for the power of a personal connection between brands and retailers. So it’s important to pick tools that support your brand’s goals by making it easier to do the work so you can stay connected to the people.

Envoy B2B empowers that connection. Brands can use Envoy B2B to build stronger wholesale channels by streamlining their processes with the all-in-one-place power of Envoy B2B to handle assortments, orders, education, and more during a season. That leaves brands and their reps free to focus on strengthening their retailer relationships and building deep connections with their buyers.

BioLite knows. They’ve been using Envoy B2B for a year and a half, and have seen the improvements it can bring to their business. The folks at BioLite know that Envoy B2B understands how to build powerful tools that go above and beyond in getting the job done, but also get out of the way so they aren’t bogged down jumping through technical hoops. BioLite uses Envoy B2B to modernize its wholesale channel, create more efficient processes and build better relationships with its partners and retailers.

Jonathan Kosakow, director of sales, outdoor wholesale at BioLite, recently shared some thoughts with us on how BioLite supports its retailers, and the positive impact that Envoy B2B has had on its brand.

Focused on Value, Not Floor Space

BioLite takes a unique approach to its market by offering only items that will impact the business of its retailers.

“We are not into making a lot of ‘fluff’—accessories that sit on a shelf and turn slowly—as a tactic to get more real estate on the sales floor,” said Kosakow. “We offer a more curated line, and hope to make the retailer’s job easier because they aren’t constantly testing new items and balancing stock. They can feel comfortable investing in the entire brand, knowing that what we offer is likely going to sell.”

Success Through Service

Retailers sell more of what they know. BioLite is keenly aware of this, and has focused heavily on providing valuable services to its retailers for the last few years.

“We’ve invested time and money into making sure that our sales reps know all the ins and outs of our products to make sure that retail staff know how to talk about them,” said Kosakow.

Digitally enabled rep teams are able to make better connections with their retailers. They can offer valuable clinics, insightful follow-ups on orders, and use Envoy B2B to deliver an educational destination for retailers.

Envoy B2B Elevates BioLite’s Retailer Experience

BioLite is earning its spot on the shelf by empowering its reps to work towards the mutual success of its retailers. The educational tools provided by Envoy B2B are a key component of that strategy.

“The Envoy B2B platform, fully branded to BioLite, offers our reps and retailers a destination that can be used as a single source of truth,” said Kosakow. “This has been incredibly helpful in a time when reps weren’t able to get into stores. Aside from the traditional uses of a B2B like ordering, paying, and tracking shipments, we use the B2B site to host training modules for store staff to learn about our products and our brand. It also acts as a repository for essential assets and materials our retailers need.”

Building a Better Wholesale Channel

BioLite has seen incredible success in using Envoy B2B to adopt a more modern approach to its wholesale strategy. By integrating a digital e-commerce platform that aligns with its values and strategies, the brand has been able to create more efficient processes and build better relationships with its partners and specialty retailers.

BioLite vetted nine different B2B providers on the way to choosing Envoy B2B. None of them was able to provide the tools BioLite needed to accomplish its goals.

“Most of the platforms we looked at appeared to be easy to use,” said Kosakow. “But when it came to Envoy, not only was it easy to use, it was also easy to adopt and work with. Every question we threw at Envoy, the company answered.”

It took only two months from that decision point to get BioLite up and running with a fully branded B2B site, and less than two weeks to integrate with the brand’s NetSuite account.

“Envoy became an extension of the BioLite experience through customization. This was a key feature for us,” said Kosakow. “Just like a booth at a trade show, our wholesale platform environment needed to feel on-brand and have the same level of quality and usability as any other BioLite product. Envoy accomplished that through customizing it to our look and feel.”

The Human B2B

By modernizing its wholesale channel with Envoy B2B, BioLite is now able to focus on growth, stay true to its values, connect with its people, and drive its brand forward. The company has digitally empowered its sales reps, which allows it to deepen retailer relationships. It has also streamlined many processes, including order follow-up and payment processing.

BioLite thrives by focusing on its retailers, not its processes. The company relies on Envoy B2B to do the heavy lifting in its wholesale channel.

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The last year has seen our industry face some incredible challenges. Face-to-face meetings at trade shows and on-site visits that retailers relied on to do business evaporated. Brands scrambled to find new digital tools to fill the gap. These digital tools are powerful—and a life saver for many—but some brands are now facing a new problem: overcorrecting. They are placing too much emphasis on these tools at the expense of irreplaceable human interaction. If they aren’t careful, these brands will end up alienating their retailers.

Looking Ahead: 2021 Presents a New Challenge

Brands need to overcome a new challenge for 2021. How can they empower their reps to reconnect with retailers by delivering a more human-centric experience? Brands that understand this challenge and are able to refocus on supporting their retailers and deliver that human touch will be the strongest partners as our industry shifts how it does business once again.

Envoy B2B surveyed over 6,500 retailers for our latest report, deliberately reaching out to the same group of retailers from the 2020 report. The goal was to compare and contrast how the challenges of today’s market, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic changed their opinions. This data gives brands insight into how they can best support their retailers in today’s market climate and beyond.

What Did We Learn from the Retailer’s Challenge Report?

There is a clear narrative to what retailers are telling us and it’s essential for brands to listen if they want to build strong seasons throughout 2021.

Retailers Are Swamped with Digital Tools

Over the last year, brands and retailers were forced to find new, digital methods of connecting. This high demand for digital tools resulted in a secondary problem of flooding retailers with too many systems to work across as they manage their stores.

Digital Trade Shows Weren’t up to Snuff

The current climate has largely forced us to be separated from each other while we try and do business. This works on a smaller scale for brand-led digital sell-in events and seasonal launches. But for retailers, the idea of a large scale digital “trade show” was a bust. More than anything, retailers want face-to-face interactions with a supportive rep.

2020 Was Surprisingly Strong for Many Retailers

While there were certainly challenges to be surmounted, and it wasn’t roses all around, many stores found ways to thrive and even put up some record months. And looking forward to the year ahead, retailers are actively seeking out new brands and products. It will be critical for brands to align themselves with retailer needs and place themselves where retailers are looking to find new opportunities.

Clearly, the human connection between brands and retailers matters. Retailers are hesitant about brands that want to replace face-to-face experiences with fully digital interactions. While all these new digital experiences have been a boon to the outdoor industry, brands need to be careful not to rely on them at the expense of their retailer’s needs.

This is just a quick overview of some of what can be learned from what retailers reported. Download the entire Envoy B2B 2021 Retailer’s Challenge Report for more data, analysis, and insights into how your brand can best support your retailers.

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