Velites: A Rising Star in Fitness Gear
From Unknown to Essential
Just a year ago, Velites, a Spanish brand specializing in fitness gear, was largely unknown in the North American CrossFit and functional fitness arena. Fast forward to today, and you’d struggle to find a fitness enthusiast who hasn’t heard the name. With a focus on jump ropes, grips, apparel, and shoes, Velites is quickly making a name for itself, particularly in the CrossFit and HYROX communities.
Official Partnerships
Velites has taken a strategic leap by becoming the official apparel and footwear partner for the upcoming 2025 CrossFit Games. In addition, they have secured positions as the official partners in various categories, including jump ropes and wristbands for the World Fitness Project (WFP). Their collaboration with HYROX, a rapidly growing fitness competition with a projected participation of 1.2 million competitors in the upcoming year, further solidifies their presence in the fitness market.
Key Partnership Insights:
- CrossFit Games 2025: Official apparel partner.
- WFP & HYROX: Jump ropes and grips partner.
- HYROX Participation: Over 600,000 participants expected, with numbers anticipated to double.
The Velites Journey
The roots of Velites can be traced back to Matías Hernandez Van Waes, an engineer and CrossFit enthusiast, who faced challenges with traditional jump ropes. After crafting his own prototype, he discovered a better way to tackle double-unders and soon began creating ropes for others. This grassroots innovation led to the founding of Velites over a decade ago.
Evolution of Products:
- Jump Ropes: Starting from a personal challenge.
- Hand Grips: Launched in 2021, designed for use without chalk.
- Apparel Line: Expanded in 2024 with a full range of fitness clothing.
- Training Shoes: The Hybrid 1.0, launched in 2022, sold out within a week and is crafted from 90% recycled materials.
An Innovative Approach
Each product launch is accompanied by extensive research and athlete feedback, allowing Velites to address gaps in the market directly. Their commitment to functional design, reflected in their Hybrid 1.0 shoes, prioritizes versatility for both lifting and running, making them suitable for a variety of training routines.
For Beginners and Fitness Pros:
- Minimalist Design: Ideal for those transitioning from traditional shoes.
- Sustainability: The use of recycled materials appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.
Community Engagement and Growth
Over the last two years, Velites has ramped up its visibility by attending numerous fitness events and collaborating with athletes. Their efforts have paid off, with their team expanding from 24 to 45 members, showcasing their growth and commitment to becoming a leading player in the fitness industry.
Key Takeaways
- Innovation Matters: Velites thrives on understanding athletes’ needs to create effective gear.
- Community Focus: Building relationships within the fitness community is central to their growth strategy.
- Sustainability Counts: Using recycled materials not only supports the environment but also appeals to modern consumers.
- Versatility is Key: Products designed for multiple fitness activities make it easier for everyone to work out efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Velites is more than just a new brand; it’s a testament to how innovation paired with community engagement can transform the fitness landscape. Whether you’re a beginner just stepping into the gym or a seasoned athlete striving for personal bests, Velites aims to facilitate success for everyone by providing top-tier gear that performs as hard as you do.
As new collections roll out in preparation for the 2025 CrossFit Games, keep an eye on Velites, as their trajectory suggests they’re just getting started!
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Bio: Talia brings a background in health journalism and holistic living to help readers live better, one tip at a time.