K-Swiss, an innovator in performance product since its inception in 1966, continues to expand its commitment to the running market with the opening of its first U.S.-based running retail store in Santa Monica, California. The iconic California-sport footwear and apparel brand will leverage the new retail location to elevate the brand's presence leading up to and during the LA Marathon in March 2010 as the race's official footwear and apparel sponsor.

"The Santa Monica store will play a key role in our partnership with the LA Marathon, especially since the finish line is less than a mile away from the store," said David Nichols, executive vice president of K-Swiss. "With product, experienced staff, and coaching advice, we see the store as a go-to destination for runners as they train for this big event."

K-Swiss Santa Monica will showcase the latest cutting-edge performance footwear, apparel and accessories as well as lifestyle components for all levels of athletes. Through grassroots efforts, K-Swiss also plans to strengthen the brand's relationship with the local running community via retail presence at local road races and outreach to running clubs and associations offering the store as a gathering spot for group runs, meetings and clinics. The LA Roadrunners group have already been testing K-Swiss' new products and are becoming an excellent resource for the brand to gather feedback and make product enhancements.

K-Swiss currently operates running stores in Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong.