Online running shoes, running clothing and outdoor gear retailer SportsShoes.com has launched what is believed to be the world’s first digital retailer-backed all-women’s European trail and mountain running team.
Called the SportsShoes Pro Alpine Trail Team (P.A.T.T.), the seven-strong roster will compete across the 2026 season and brings together athletes from the UK and Europe, spanning a range of ages and experience levels, with a focus on performance, progression and mentorship
SportsShoes.com is supporting the team year-round with kit, travel and a mentorship structure. The retailer is also providing additional backing from brand partners including Asics, Hoka, Salomon, The North Face, Merrell, Maurten, Silva, SunGod and Suunto.
Former European Mountain Running Championship winner Emmie Collinge is acting as P.A.T.T. team manager and mentor.
She is joined by Amelie Lane (UK, 19), Elisa Sortini (Italy, 41), Vanessa Caba (Spain, 34), Natalina Neuenschwander (Switzerland, 29), Madlen Kappeler (Germany, 28), and French athlete Lucie Meyer (28).
The team is set to compete across the 2026 season at events including Transgrancanaria, UTMB World Series-rated races across Europe and the Golden Trail Series.
Alongside elite racing ambitions, P.A.T.T. has been created to promote longevity and sustainable high performance in women’s endurance sport, with experienced athletes supporting and guiding younger teammates. P.A.T.T also champions shorter trail formats, including sub-hour and technical races,
Ben Mounsey, marketing lead for trail and outdoor at SportsShoes.com, said: “Women’s trail running deserves greater recognition, greater opportunity and greater investment, and we’re committed to helping drive that change.
“P.A.T.T. brings together a talented group of athletes from across Europe and puts best-in-class support around them throughout the season, including kit, travel and mentorship.
“With extensive experience working alongside the world’s leading running brands, SportsShoes.com is in an unrivalled position to leverage our knowledge, expertise and influence to give something back not only to the athletes, but to the trail running sport as a whole.”
Established in 1982, Bradford-headquartered SportsShoes.com offers more than 17,000 products from 150 global running and outdoor brands.
P.A.T.T. team manager Emmie Collinge added: “Our goal isn’t just performing for one season but finding ways to develop resilience for the long game.
“Mentorship and shared experience are still largely missing in women’s endurance sports. My dream is to create a space with buoyancy where athletes can lean into their teammates and never be afraid to ask questions.”
For further information on the company, visit www.sportsshoes.com
