Born and bred in Melbourne, Erniold describe themselves as more than just an apparel or running brand, they see the brand as an expression of community. Developed for all runners, Erniold’s performance range combines technical fabrics and functional details to elevate your running experience. Each piece is designed for the ultimate freedom of movement and to go the distance. All garments are designed and made in Melbourne with Erniold’s signature care label featured on back. Keep an eye on this emerging label as they look to reinvent and reinvigorate the Melbourne running community, one expertly designed garment at a time.

Erniold founders Xavier Meade and Simon Hanns are passionate runners who love the simplicity of the sport, we caught up with Xavier and Simon and asked them a few questions to gain a greater understanding of the brand, it’s underlying ethos and what drives them.

How long was the idea of Erniold ruminating in your heads before taking the leap?

In November 2019 we were catching up over a few pints and the idea just came to us. Every day since we have refined the idea down to what it is today. We think of Erniold the way we think of running, a hobby we are passionate about, it’s all for the love of it.

What was/is the inspiration behind the label?

We draw the majority of our inspiration from running culture and more specifically the culture within our home of Melbourne. To us, running culture is all about mateship, community & grit. Design wise we keep things pretty minimal with a big focus on quality & comfort but we do look up to some international designers like Karl-Oskar Olsen & Jil Sander.

What does the future hold for Erniold? Both in a brand sense as well as from a community engagement standpoint?

It’s really boundless for us. We’ll continuously expand our range and produce new garments to eventually cover most of the apparel items a runner needs. While the back of house stuff goes on we are always looking for opportunities to connect with local run crews, support events, start new events, and cheer on anyone who gives running a go. It's great to help connect more runners and introduce them to the many great running groups around.

Stay tuned for our next collection coming this summer…

What is your go-to running route in/around Melbourne and why?

Xavier - Yarra Bend, it’s got it all. Trails, hills, grass ovals and some fast sections for sessions. If I were to leave Melbourne I’d go straight to the Woodend pine plantations for endless dirt roads.  

Simon - I live in Carlton North, so I spend a lot of time running around Princess Park/Royal Park areas. Yarra Bend, Collingwood (Clifton Hill) Track each Thursday, Yarra Flats, Albert Park for longer sessions are all regulars. I also love sneaking on a golf course during lockdowns/early summer mornings.

You are both very competent runners in your own right; what is one of your favourite sessions and why?

Xavier - Dependent on a few things (mainly fitness) but I’d probably say 6x 1k off 90 seconds. I just find it’s a good session to see where I’m at and come back to every now and then. Run it somewhere fast always helps with confidence. 

Simon - During track season, I love 400’s. 14 x 400 off 2 mins is a staple leading up to goal races. I’m not the speediest guy, so I enjoy getting some spring into the legs and gain a lot of confidence from this session.

At the moment leading up to the Half, I really enjoy and get excited for longer reps or throwing in tempo/threshold during long runs. Whether it’s 3 x 3km, 2 x 5km or 15/20km tempo in a long run; there’s nothing better than nailing one of those and you just feel stronger and stronger each week. 

Are either of you training for any events at the moment? If so, what and what is your goal?

Xavier - Gold Coast Marathon. The preparation has been great so I’d say 2hrs 34mins (5min PB) but if it’s one of those magic days where everything clicks I’ll reevaluate around 10-15k and push for the sub 2:30!

Simon - Gold Coast half. I’ve been hanging out for this for a while and want to use it as momentum to build up for Melbourne Mara. Ultimate goal is to break 70 minutes, which is ambitious but within reach if I have a good race. As long as I have a crack and run sub 72 or better I’ll be content.