Welcome to the Unknown →
Who We Are
Unknown Runner was founded by Katie and Alex Mette, running partners before becoming life partners. It was born from a love of being on trail, preferably with an elevated heart rate. With a desire to bring natural performance apparel to the trail community, our focus on merino wool became the north star.
We’re based in Flagstaff, Arizona, a veritable running utopia, surrounded by the community we’re intent on supporting.
We want to bring the best performance merino trail apparel to you as a bridge to the places only trail running can take you.
Our Mission
Design and build the highest quality performance merino apparel purpose-made for trail runners. We’ll only build it if it serves a purpose.
Grow and support the grassroots and local trail community. The trails and the miles are great but in the end, it’s about the community of people and the shared trail experience.
Stay small, stay close. We want to know our customers and the community. We’re purposefully small. We’ll strive to foster real human connection. In person is best.
Where did Unknown Runner come from and what does it mean?
Scrolling the race photos of a trail race in the Texas panhandle in 2021, Alex was nowhere to be found. Eventually he made it to the last page where a collection of runners, including him, was grouped under “unknown runner," the photo processing software unable to decipher bib numbers and assign names.
At that moment, something clicked and he knew that eventually we would start a company and call it Unknown Runner. The name celebrates the solitary but shared experience of trail running. The many miles alone in the woods with nothing but your thoughts.
The experience of trying to improve as a runner. Destination and outcome unknown. The only certainty being the path ahead.The deeper sense of purpose that running through nature seems to evoke. An appreciation of people, place, and the simple act of being.
Why do we love Merino so much?
Learn more about nature’s performance fiber.
TEMPERATURE REGULATION
TEMPERATURE REGULATION
The wool fiber structure traps air, naturally keeping you cool in the heat and warm in the cold.
MOISTURE MANAGEMENT
MOISTURE MANAGEMENT
Merino wool manages moisture in vapor form, absorbing humidity from the body before sweat fully builds against the skin. As conditions change, the fiber releases moisture outward to support evaporation and help stabilize comfort through variable effort.
SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABILITY
Merino is a renewable resource & biodegradable with lower microplastic pollution than synthetics.
MATERIAL RESILIENCY
MATERIAL RESILIENCY
Merino wool fibers have natural material resiliency and maintain their structural strength even when wet.
Frequently asked Questions
More questions?
Extended FAQs here
Why merino wool?
Why merino wool?
Merino wool is nature’s performance fiber. It’s naturally thermoregulating, odor resistant, handles moisture exceptionally well, and is incredibly soft on skin. This makes it an ideal material to for trail running where modulating effort, comfort, and regulating body temperature are all critical.
Isn’t merino wool hot?
Isn’t merino wool hot?
Common misconception! The performance fabrics we use bring the best of merino wool’s thermoregulating properties forward to keep you cool in the heat.
How do I care for my merino wool garment?
How do I care for my merino wool garment?
Wool is naturally odor resistant so it doesn’t need to be washed as often as a synthetic. Our fabrics are made with materials that increase the durability of your garment but a little extra care will go a long way in extending the life of your garment. As a general rule, wash inside out with a mild detergent on delicate cycle. Lay flat or hang to dry. If you have any questions, reach out and we’re happy to help!
Is the wool used non mulesed?
Is the wool used non mulesed?
Absolutely. All of the wool we use in our products is non mulesed.
