422: It’s Time To Level Up Your Running Sock Game For 2026! Feetures CEO, John Gaither Shares How & Why

Running socks may seem like a small detail, but for runners and endurance athletes, they play a critical role in comfort, durability, and long-term performance. In this episode of Marni On The Move, Marni connects with John Gaither, CEO of Feetures, to explore how technical running socks have evolved from an afterthought into an essential piece of endurance sports gear. From fit and material innovation to changing consumer expectations and the global running boom, this conversation breaks down why upgrading your sock game matters — and what athletes should look for as they head into 2026. We also chat about Feetures design partnership with Olympian, Podcaster, Best Selling Author Alexi Pappas where we met at an event this summer in NYC at Fleet Feet. Topics We Cover: How Feetures evolved as a family-owned technical sock brand Why running socks are foundational to endurance sports performance What today’s runners look for in fit, comfort, and durability How innovation in materials and construction impacts training and racing Design trends and collaborations in technical running socks Lessons learned growing a category-defining brand Navigating change and unprecedented industry challenges The global running boom and its influence on gear innovation Building athlete loyalty through quality and consistency How to level up your running sock game for 2026 CONNECT Feetures on Instagram Marni On The Move Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, or YouTube` Marni Salup on Instagram and Playlist on Spotify SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER Sign up for our monthly newsletter, Do What Moves You, for Marni on the Move updates, exclusive offers, invites to events, and exciting news! SUPPORT THE PODCAST Leave us a five stars and a review on Apple, it’s easy, scroll through the episode list on your podcast app, click on five stars, click on leave a review, and share what you love about the conversations you’re listening to. Tell your friends the episodes you are listening to on your social. Share a screen shot of the episode in your stories, tag us, we will tag you back!