Tough Mudder and Merrell announce a multi-year international partnership

Leading obstacle event company Tough Mudder Inc. and outdoor pioneer Merrell have announced a multi-year partnership, introducing the outdoor footwear and apparel company as the presenting partner for global Tough Mudder events from 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 two million Tough Mudder participants around the world with Merrell’s industry leading and innovative outdoor footwear and apparel that inspires people to seek outdoor challenges and enjoy the outside every day.

Ted Baldock, Executive Director at RCG Brands (Merrell’s Australian Distributor), stated “at Merrell, we believe that hard elements shouldn’t harden your spirit, that they should be enjoyed, not defeated.

“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.

Tough Mudder Inc. co-founder and Chief Executive Will Dean added “we are incredibly excited to welcome Merrell as the presenting partner for Tough Mudder here in Australia and around the world in 2016.

“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 wearers 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.

Merrell Chief Marketing Officer Linda Brunzell concluded “wearing Merrell tells the world you love the outdoors.

“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.”

Merrell is a division of Wolverine Worldwide

For more information on the 2016 Tough Mudder season, visit www.toughmudder.com.au.

To pick up the latest gear from Merrell go to www.merrellaustralia.com.au

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