Veloci Running is an emerging independent running shoe brand founded by former Division I athlete Tyler Strothman to eliminate the compromise between foot comfort and lower leg protection. The company bridges the gap between traditional and minimalist footwear by engineering performance running shoes that combine a naturally shaped, wide toe box with a traditional 10mm elevated heel drop.
We recently spoke with Veloci Running to find out more about the initial start and development of the company, alongside their plans for the International Running Expo 2026.
1. Can you tell us about the background to Veloci Running - what sparked the idea?
Veloci began because of a personal challenge I faced as a Division I track athlete at Rice University. Traditional running shoes cramped my toes, but the options with a more natural fit were all minimalist models that lacked support, leaving my calves and Achilles tendons tight. Later, while working at a running specialty store, I realized my customers struggled with these exact same pains. I knew they would benefit from the solution I wanted to build. Today, we are proud to offer a shoe with a spacious, naturally curved toe box for comfort, paired with the traditional heel drop most runners love and rely on.
2. Would you say your shoes suit runners of all abilities - from beginners to elite athletes?
Absolutely. Our wearers range from unsponsored Division I and former Olympic athletes to everyday runners who count on Veloci Running shoes for comfortable daily mileage.
3. What has been the primary unexpected challenge of launching a brand-new running shoe company?
Building a running shoe brand is an uphill battle, especially in today’s fiercely competitive market. Yet, the daily feedback from runners who rely on our product makes every hurdle worth it.
4. How is Veloci connecting with local run clubs and the grassroots running community as you launch?
Even seven months before our launch, I was hitting four to five run clubs a week. I wanted to be part of the community, handing out water and Gatorade while sharing what we were building and why it mattered. Over a year and a half after our first release, we still make it a priority to host active demo runs. We want people to try Veloci shoes for themselves and keep growing that grassroots connection.
5. Where does your design inspiration come from?
We want our footwear to fire people up for whatever is on their schedule, whether it is a morning walk before work or a long Sunday run prepping for a marathon. The name Veloci is Italian for fast, and the feather detailing on our shoes captures the exact energy we want to give runners.
6. What is it you would like a runner to notice immediately when they put on a pair of Veloci shoes for the first time?
Runners often have an "aha" moment when they first feel our anatomical toe box fit, usually followed by remarks about how supportive and cushioned their legs feel. It's a great thing seeing runners get the support that so many need, with a natural fit that they can feel immediately. This is exactly the response we hope to hear as most customers try Veloci shoes for the first time.
7. With global giants dominating the running industry, how does a start-up like Veloci find its footing and convince runners to try a new name?
One of the main reasons more people are discovering Veloci is that runners keep telling other runners how great our shoes feel. Hearing stories from customers who reached new mileage goals or hit personal milestones while feeling better than ever genuinely inspires our team. These personal experiences make for great stories when runners share them with their own communities. To build on this momentum, we keep our marketing focused on the unique comfort Veloci shoes provide. Having such a distinct benefit helps us stand out against the major footwear brands.
8. If a runner takes Veloci out for a single run, they might just notice a benefit like the wide toe box. But what is the one subtle benefit that only reveals itself after they have put 50 or 100 miles into the shoe?
Customers frequently tell us that as they break these in, the shoes mold perfectly to their feet, and they absolutely love them. We pride ourselves on building footwear that feels incredible from day one and stays comfortable for years to come.
9. Looking at The International Running Expo (IRX) 2026, what has attracted you to the event and what are you most looking forward to there?
We want to get our unique mix of comfort and support into the hands of more runners worldwide, on more days of the week. We’re excited to partner with new distributors and bring that comfort to their local communities. IRX is an excellent place to showcase our brand and connect with like-minded partners for the future.
10. Without giving too much away, what is the one future project that the team at Veloci is most excited about right now?
By the International Running Expo (IRX) this November, we will launch a revamped second-generation Veloci Ascent and an all-new super trainer releasing next month. We are pushing the limits of midsole technology to keep delivering our signature comfort in the best possible footwear.