Merrell Officially Partners with Spring Challenge and Summer Challenge

We are thrilled to announce our renewed and strengthened partnership with both Spring Challenge and Summer Challenge, pioneering adventure racing events in New Zealand designed to empower women through outdoor sports.

As a brand that deeply believes in the transformative power of the outdoors, we couldn't be more aligned with the goal of these events. This partnership is a natural fit for us, as we share a common mission: to inspire and empower women to embrace the thrill of adventure and the satisfaction of pushing personal boundaries.

Shared Values: Empowerment Through Adventure

At Merrell, we understand that adventure sports can sometimes feel intimidating, especially for those new to the experience. However, both Spring / Summer Challenge break down these barriers by creating supportive and accessible environments where women of all skill levels can challenge themselves and discover just how much they are capable of achieving. This aligns perfectly with our values, as our mission is to make getting outside enjoyable and accessible for everyone.

Through this partnership, we aim to further empower women to participate in these transformative experiences, fostering a sense of community and accomplishment. We have seen first-hand the joy and camaraderie that these events foster, as our own teams have participated in several Spring Challenge (Team Merrell Magic) and Summer Challenge (Team Merrell Sole Mates) events over the years. The shared experiences on the course—sometimes challenging, always rewarding—create lasting memories and build an uplifting community of like-minded women.

 
About Spring / Summer Challenge

Spring / Summer Challenge are among New Zealand’s most loved adventure racing events, crafted exclusively for women. They offer participants the opportunity to engage in multi-discipline adventure races that include trekking, mountain biking, and kayaking. Each year, teams of women come together to navigate stunning natural landscapes, overcoming physical and mental challenges along the way.

What makes these events truly special is their inclusivity; whether you're a seasoned athlete or a beginner, both Spring / Summer Challenge provide different course lengths to cater to varying fitness levels and experience. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, can participate and experience the joy of adventure racing. These events are not just about competition; they’re about personal growth, teamwork, and the shared joy of overcoming obstacles in a supportive, all-female environment.

Looking Ahead: A Stronger Partnership

As we take our partnership further as naming sponsor, we are excited to work even more closely with the organisers, Jodie and Nathan Fa’avae, to enhance the participant experience. Our goal is to encourage even more women to step outside, challenge themselves, and connect with nature and each other.

We are proud to be part of such an inspiring movement and believe that by combining our expertise in outdoor gear with the passion for adventure racing embodied by Spring / Summer Challenge, we can inspire even more female adventurers. 

Together, let's embrace the great outdoors, support one another, and make unforgettable memories.