Tough Mudder announces Merrell as presenting partner for global event series.
Today, premier obstacle event company Tough Mudder Inc. and outdoor pioneer Merrell®, a division of Wolverine Worldwide, announce a multi-year partnership, introducing Merrell as the presenting partner for global Tough Mudder events beginning in 2016.
In the spirit of Merrell’s commitment to bringing outdoor experiences to wide and new audiences, the partnership includes the presenting sponsorship of Tough Mudder events in 2016 and beyond, connecting more than 2 million Tough Mudder participants here and abroad with Merrell’s industry-leading and innovative outdoor footwear and apparel that inspires people to seek outdoor challenges and enjoy the outside every day.
“At Merrell, we believe that hard elements shouldn’t harden your spirit, that they should be enjoyed, not defeated,” said Ted Baldock, Executive Director, RCG Brands (Australian Distributor). “Tough Mudder shares our vision of wit and grit, and together we are committed to inspiring others to overcome obstacles by eliminating barriers to enjoying the outdoors.”
The partnership will unite two brands with worldwide communities of outdoor enthusiasts who value teamwork, fun, unique experiences, and physical and mental challenges.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Merrell as the presenting partner for Tough Mudder here in Australia and around the world in 2016,” said Will Dean, CEO and co-founder of Tough Mudder Inc. “Tough Mudder is more than an event – it’s a lifestyle based on teamwork, courage, personal accomplishment, and fun, and our partnership with Merrell reflects these shared values. Together we will continue to innovate and improve the event in 2016, and help inspire a new community of Mudders.”
This partnership comes at a pivotal moment for both companies. Since its founding in 2010, Tough Mudder has established itself as the world’s largest event series, with over two million participants to
date. Inspired by the trail, Merrell has been making performance gear for people who love the outdoors since 1981.
In 2016, Merrell will present 60+ Tough Mudder events in six countries. Each event features a 10+ mile course with world-class obstacles designed to test both physical and mental strength. Courses will include brand new and updated obstacles developed by Tough Mudder’s Obstacle Innovation Team with features designed to test Merrell’s world-class trail and outdoor gear.
The partnership will leverage both brands’ innovation and design capabilities, bringing new products and features to global participants. Touchpoints for the partnership will include:
Finisher t-shirts: Every Tough Mudder finisher will receive a performance t-shirt celebrating their accomplishment. The lightweight technical tees will feature Merrell’s M Select™ WICK technology to combat sweat and dry quickly – perfect for forging through water, barbed wire, and rugged terrain.
On-site Presence: Merrell and Tough Mudder will co-develop a unique obstacle that encapsulates the thrill of the outdoors. Merrell is also planning to enhance the on-site Mudder Village for 2016, which will offer participants the opportunity to engage with each other and with spectators as part of Merrell’s new “Do What’s Natural” brand platform.
Gear: Merrell will bring its heritage and expertise in performance gear to the ultimate outdoor event through a line of co-developed gear designed to get Mudders from sign-up to the finish line. In 2016, Merrell will introduce the Tough Mudder inspired NEW All Out Crush trail running shoe, with additional products to follow. The M Select™ Grip and deep, multi-directional lugs of the All Out Crush shoe provide 360-degree traction, while flex grooves release mud to allow the foot to move naturally and help propel on ascents. The TPU mesh coating helps protect you from the elements and allows for easy cleaning of mud and dirt – no more throwing your shoes out after the event. A UniFly™ midsole is soft to the ground to connect and cushion from the terrain for a firm foot and more efficient stride.
“Wearing Merrell tells the world you love the outdoors,” said Linda Brunzell, Chief Marketing Officer, Merrell. “Our co-developed apparel will not only celebrate the accomplishment of becoming a Mudder, but will enhance the participant experience.”
”Merrell is the brand of choice for outdoor enthusiasts and this partnership will reaffirm our commitment to getting more Australians outside and active.”