Allyson Felix Launches Her Own Shoe Company Saysh
Image: Harrison Boyce for Saysh
Beyond the greatness of a star athlete, there’s a deeper story to tell. When anyone is able to utilize their voice or their platform to become a change agent through advocacy, we are all winning. At times, these journeys are born from situations that require a resilient spirit and call for courage. We are in some amazing times where Black excellence is at the forefront of the upcoming Olympic Games. Amongst the roster of phenomenal athletes is Allyson Felix. She is a decorated track and field contender who already has multiple medals in tow.
We can clearly see that the best athletes operate within an ecosystem of high motivation, but when the challenges began to stack up for Allyson, she created her own solutions. After stepping away from a Nike sponsorship, Allyson expressed her feelings around the departure and how she didn’t feel the conditions fo what the brand was willing to give her were fair. Allyson decided that she would not continue her relationship with Nike given the lack of maternity protections. Since leaving, Allyson has raised more awareness surrounding the several inequities that Black mothers are challenged with. Allyson also became a sponsored athlete with Athleta before creating her own footwear and apparel brand - SAYSH.
“...disrupt traditional athletic sponsorships, run in a brand that prioritizes Black maternal health, and provide more opportunities for women within the footwear and sports industries,”
SAYSH is meant to empower other women not only through lifestyle products, but with a collective voice. Allyson has become a conduit for positive change given her experiences as a Black female athlete and mother. Her company is built by women for women in mind, and the first product released will be the SAYSH One sneaker. In the design lab at SAYSH, a familiar (and amazing) face is present. Tiffany Beers, former Nike Footwear Designer, is Head of Product and applying all her expertise to build a silhouette specifically for US. The SAYSH One is designed with a feel of a wrap dress on foot and and includes a lightweight construction, with more upcoming colorways.
We are so excited to see new lanes being created in sports and sneakers. SAYSH will be building community with a membership that brings women of all walks together. The collective will include workouts, exclusive products, and more ways to connect with other members. A pre-order is available now for the SAYSH One and you can SHOP THE SNEAKS below for $150 USD.