The Rise of “Athleisure” on Display

The New York City Marathon, the seventh and final World Marathon Major of 2025, is increasingly recognized not only for athletic achievement but also as a significant event in the fashion world. One observer noted that the race may as well be Paris Fashion Week.

This shift reflects the growing popularity of “athleisure” – casual clothing designed for both exercise and general utilize. The trend has seen brands like Adidas, Asics, Hoka, Lululemon, Nike, New Balance, On, and Saucony actively engaging with runners through group jogs and branded cheer zones along the race route.

Brand Activations and Runner Style

Leading up to the 2025 marathon, brands transformed New York City into a hub of activity, hosting events and offering free swag. The influence of celebrity endorsements is also apparent; sales of Tracksmith shorts jumped 50% after Harry Styles wore them in the Tokyo and Berlin marathons.

The appeal of athleisure extends beyond performance. Stylist Derek Lam has described it as one of the plagues of contemporary design, linking it to contemporary urban and suburban lifestyles. The trend is fueled by a desire for comfort, functionality, and style, with many runners prioritizing a look that blends performance with everyday wear.

2025 Marathon Results

The 2025 New York City Marathon saw impressive performances in both the men’s and women’s races.

• Women’s Results: Hellen Obiri (KEN) – 2:19:51, Sharon Lokedi (KEN) – 2:20:07, Sheila Chepkirui (KEN) – 2:20:24
• Men’s Results: Benson Kipruto (KEN) – 2:08:09, Alexander Mutiso (KEN) – 2:08:09, Albert Korir (KEN) – 2:08:57

Susannah Scaroni (USA) won the women’s wheelchair race in 1:42:10, while Benson Kipruto (KEN) took the men’s title in 2:08:09.

The Future of Athleisure

Brands are continuing to innovate in the athleisure space, with collaborations and new materials driving the trend forward. Nike and SKIMS have released a collaborative line, while PANGAIA focuses on performance clothing made from organic and recycled materials. Lululemon is expanding into running apparel with its Spring Run 2026 line.

The blurring of lines between athletic wear and everyday clothing suggests that athleisure is not merely a trend, but a lasting shift in how people approach fashion and fitness.

FAQ

• What is athleisure? Athleisure is casual clothing designed for both exercise and general use.
• Which brands are prominent in the athleisure market? Adidas, Asics, Hoka, Lululemon, Nike, New Balance, On, and Saucony are all key players.
• Who won the 2025 NYC Marathon? Hellen Obiri (women’s) and Benson Kipruto (men’s).