Skechers signs long-distance runner Kara Goucher as brand ambassador

Skechers was not always a brand one associates with running, but times are changing. The brand’s performance division has signed long-distance runner Kara Goucher to its Performance Elite Team.



The multi-year agreement names Skechers Performance Division as Goucher’s official footwear sponsor and will feature the world-class female runner in global marketing and advertising campaigns.



Goucher’s achievements include winning the bronze medal in the 2007 World Championships in the 10,000 meter, competing on the U.S. Olympic team in 2012 and 2008, placing first in the 2012 USA Half Marathon Championships and placing third in the 2012 Olympic marathon trials in Houston, Texas.



“We know Kara will make a fantastic addition to our team,” said president Michael Greenberg. “This partnership strengthens our commitment to the Skechers Performance brand and adds tremendous credibility to what we are accomplishing. Integral to our strategy is working with top runners to develop performance shoes that exceed expectations. We believe elite athletes like Kara and Meb competing in Skechers Performance footwear further drives growth in this key division of our company.”



“I am excited to be joining the Skechers Performance Division,” said Goucher. “The team is dedicated to making the best shoes possible for runners of all levels. They take direct feedback from athletes and apply it to their shoe development. Skechers Performance is willing to think outside the box in an effort to put their athletes first. I am honored to be joining this team and I look forward to a great relationship on and off the roads."



A competitive runner for more than 20 years, Goucher grew up in Duluth, Minnesota and attended the University of Colorado in Boulder. She is currently training in Boulder, Colo., with her coaches Mark Wetmore and Heather Burroughs.



The announcement comes nearly two weeks after the company reported a sales increase of 21% to $546.5 million and a same-store sales increased of 5.6%, giving the company its second highest quarterly revenue in its 22-year history.