Caterpy Group, a brand known in the running world for its patented no-tie elastic laces that improving shoelace security, blood flow and comfort, selected SIMBOL Communications as its North American agency of record (AOR) for media and public relations.
The companies’ combined efforts are designed to grow its presence in the running world and other industries, including the general outdoor, active lifestyle, senior living and fashion sectors.
The laces’ ability to lock in place without requiring additional hardware is due to small bumps that are woven into the nylon/elastic material, either throughout the lace or strategically placed in specific sections. The bumps are designed to be flexible enough to be pulled through shoe eyelets; once installed and adjusted, however, they stay put while stretching enough to encourage normal blood circulation and reduce foot swelling, minimizing pinch points and alleviate other foot-related issues.
“Our lace technology is unlike anything else on the market, and the products have become quite popular especially in running circles,” said Caterpy CEO, Anthony Pong. “We’re confident that, with SIMBOL’s help, we can build on that momentum among runners while also growing brand awareness and sales considerably among the general public. Caterpy laces work great for almost any purpose and type of shoe, and we know they’ll be popular well outside the running industry if we can just get that message out to the masses: We feel SIMBOL has the tools and network to help accomplish this, and we’re excited to see where we can take this together!”
Caterpy offers two laces types, with plans for other, future versions.
Unlike traditional elastic or static ones in which the lacing evens out during activity, the Caterpy Run no-tie laces feature bumps throughout that allow the user to tighten/loosen the lacing according to different areas of the foot, an adjustment that will not change over the course of the activity. The Air no-tie Laces, on the other hand, have bumps only at the ends, an aesthetic feature that also supports ease-of-entry and comfort.
“As a longtime runner and former running journalist/gear reviewer, I’ve tried a huge variety of products,” said SIMBOL co-founder, Scott Boulbol. “Caterpy’s laces are absolutely one of the standout products. They make a truly noticeable difference in any shoes, which make them a no-brainer, especially considering how simple and inexpensive they are. We can’t wait to help spread the Caterpy buzz and make a lot of feet much happier.”
