Altra, an innovative leader in performance running footwear, has partnered with the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC) to publish Opening the Path to Trail Running: A Toolkit for Runners, Retailers, and Communities. This resource was developed with the goal of addressing systemic barriers to trail running and making the sport more accessible to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).
The toolkit, authored by running and outdoors writer Allison Torres Burtka with input from the RIDC community, explores the history of trail running and the systemic barriers that have limited representation in the sport. Further, it serves as a comprehensive starting point for runners by offering actionable guidance on training, safety, and navigating trail environments.
“Trail running has the power to connect people with nature in a way that is liberating, grounding, and joyful,” says Alicia Chin, Director of Social Impact at Altra. “We want every runner to feel that the trails are open to them and that they have equal access to these experiences. Supporting this toolkit is part of our commitment to realizing that goal.”
The toolkit also addresses retailers and community leaders seeking to better support diverse audiences. It discusses practical ways to support new parties, host more inclusive events, and create spaces that welcome underrepresented runners.
RIDC, a national nonprofit dedicated to improving inclusion, visibility, and access for BIPOC communities in running and outdoor spaces, believes that collaboration is key to driving lasting change.
“This toolkit is an example of how strategic partnerships can bring valuable resources to the running community,” explains Kiera Smalls, Executive Director at RIDC. “After seeing a distinct lack of BIPOC representation data in trail experiences, we knew it was essential to bring their stories and insights to the forefront. Together with Altra, we’re working to make the trails more inclusive and accessible for all runners.”
Opening the Path to Trail Running emphasizes that the sport is about more than just fitness, but also camaraderie and connection. For runners of all levels, from those hitting the trail for the first time to off-road aficionados, the toolkit provides actionable insights that open the door to transformative outdoor experiences and supportive like-minded communities.
The toolkit is available for download at www.runningdiversity.com/trail-running-toolkit.
About Altra
Altra was founded in the backroom of a small specialty running store in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah. Since the beginning, the goal has been to create innovative and purposeful running shoes that help people run more naturally. Altra’s unique platform includes a FootShape toebox that allows the toes to relax and spread out which enhances stability and encourages natural running form. Altra Running shoes have a Zero to Low Drop, ensuring your body stays in a more natural running position. Altra’s purpose is to unleash human potential by inspiring the world to move naturally.
About RIDC
The Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC) unites the running industry to improve inclusion, visibility, and access for BIPOC. Through advocacy, education, and partnerships, RIDC works to build an equitable future for the sport and business of running.
