Athleta is about real athletes inspiring active women with apparel that functions, fits and performs beautifully. To assure we’re providing the best products and service, we’re committed to connecting with YOU — the exceptional athletes who inspire our business, our products and (most importantly) our customers. Please read below for answers to frequently asked questions about our program and a link to the application form.
How does Athleta work with each athlete?
Each athlete is unique so no two relationships are alike. In general, sponsorships last for one (1) year, during which each athlete receives an allotment of performance clothing relevant to her fitness practice. We ask sponsored athletes to put our products to the test, then tell us what works and how we can improve.
Sponsored athletes are also featured here on the Athleta Chi blog and invited to share their inspiration and expertise with the Athleta community by participating in store events, sponsored events and/or contributing to our blog.
What are your criteria for selecting sponsored athletes?
Many of Athleta’s customers only aspire to the level of our featured athletes, but we believe in fueling that aspiration with inspiration. That’s why we assemble an exceptional team that mirrors the diversity of our customers and the values associated with our brand. Athletes in our program are:
AUTHENTIC AND CREDIBLE. Athleta’s customers are strong, intelligent women who instinctively know when someone is the real deal. That’s why our athletes have stellar credentials and expertise conveyed with the quiet confidence that comes from a strong core.
COMMITTED TO A BALANCED, ATHLETIC LIFESTYLE. We recognize that a woman’s connection to fitness runs much deeper than weight loss or vanity—it’s about balancing and strengthening mind, body and spirit. Our athletes talk the talk and walk (or run) the walk when it comes to integrated health.
DISTINCTIVE. Everything we create, from apparel to photography to copy, has a sensibility that’s uniquely Athleta. We look for athlete partners who are equally distinctive in their fitness practice and overall perspective.
Someone I know would be perfect for Athleta’s sponsorship program! Can I submit a nomination?
We don’t accept nominations, but welcome applications directly from athletes who would like to be considered for our program. If you know someone who might be interested, please encourage her to apply.
How do I apply for sponsorship?
Applications for 2012 sponsorship closed at 5:00 pm Pacific Time on October 17th, 2011. If you’re interested in applying for 2013 sponsorship, check back periodically for news about when applications will open.
I applied for 2012 sponsorship. When will I hear something about the status of my application?
Following the close of 2012 applications, our sponsorship review team — athletes who excel at running, cycling, surfing, and every other sport you can imagine — will kick it into gear to review each and every applicant. Because we know what it takes to get out there and do what you love, we never cease to be amazed and inspired by the women who apply for our program. We’re not able to respond to every applicant personally, but in the weeks following the close of applications we’ll contact our top candidates and announce the 2012 roster in mid-January.
