Tracksmith designs understated running apparel for traditional outdoor runners, positioning itself against the fluorescent, pattern-driven offerings of larger fitness brands. The company operates a direct-to-consumer model that it says allows experimentation with niche products and the use of fabrics larger brands do not. Its line includes items like the "run-swim-run" short and it publishes a quarterly print magazine, Meter, which it plans to launch in a digital version. Tracksmith launched as a men’s apparel brand in July of last year and debuted a women’s line in April. With the most recent influx of cash the company will continue to introduce new designs and expand its product offerings. The company raised $4.1 million in a Series A led by Pentland Group, bringing total funding to $5.7 million. Tracksmith designs and sells running apparel — singlets, racing shorts, longer casual shorts, t-shirts, and running gear bags — with a blend of modern technology and classic styling. The company was founded by Matt Taylor and Luke Scheybeler, who spent two years designing the initial product line. Taylor, a former Puma head of marketing for running and a collegiate track runner, and Scheybeler, who found success with cycling brand Rapha, position the brand as "classic American menswear meets high performance sportswear." Tracksmith’s mission is to reconnect the sport to its storied past while looking forward to its future and to celebrate running’s culture and history. The company sells direct-to-consumer via the internet and aims to form a different kind of sports brand for runners. Tracksmith may eventually expand into shoes, but is focused on apparel at launch.

Total raised

$6M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series A

Latest activity

Aug 2015