Bandit Makes Big Push for Europe’s Running Market

The cult-favorite NYC-based running brand known for its trendy apparel is expanding its footprint with a new Barcelona location, its first in Europe

Bandit Running is making its first moves outside of the U.S., opening a new Barcelona flagship location on October 1.

The store marks the brand’s first location in Europe, created in partnership with Madrid-based running concept, Odda. The location features both brands, with the in-store only Bandit x Odda capsule collection as well.

But the space isn’t just for shopping, as Bandit leans into building community among runners. Customers will find a communal coworking space along with post-run recovery amenities like a sauna, cold plunge and showers. The concept is aiming to become integrated in the full running routine, from the pre-run meetup, to running, to recovery and socializing afterwards.

The launch kicks off with a community run on October 1, just a few weeks before one of Spain’s largest and most competitive races, the Valencia Half Marathon.

Earlier this year, Bandit opened its first flagship store outside of NYC in Chicago, which also features a strong focus on community gathering and social connection.

As Bandit brings its trendy products and aesthetic to Europe, the brand is also expanding the cult following that emerged from its New York City roots. Its co-founder and CEO Nick West previously spoke about the move to tap into that unique subculture that running has created, which has ultimately proved successful since its 2020 launch.

Bandit’s growth reflects another trend in the running community: the emergence of the “luxury runner.”

High-end, trendy brands like Bandit and Satisfy are becoming integral to runners’ status symbols as the running boom is naturally creating segments within a consistently growing population both within and outside of the U.S.