2 min readIf you’re looking to set yourself apart on the trails this fall and prove that you’re not a normal runner—you’re a rock n’ roll runner—may we suggest the new Black Sabbath-themed collection from the clothing brand Roark?
Roark partnered with the heavy metal pioneers to design an entire men’s activewear collection this fall which includes vintage-looking band tees, a nifty bomber jacket (functional for running), and jaunty lined shorts embellished with various album covers. Some of the designs were inspired by a night the band spent on Laguna Beach in 1972, resulting in one of their most famous songs, “Laguna Sunrise.”
The ad copy for this collection might elicit a giggle with lines like, “Heavy metal is our lifeblood: keeping us forever young and connecting people from all walks of life,” and “Black Sabbath has long been a cornerstone of our daily rhythm intake, fueling our trail time and creativity. It comes with great excitement that we announce our limited collaboration with the pioneers of heavy metal, pumping fresh air into our existence Somewhere Between Freedom & Chaos.”
Alas, the team at Roark is self aware and seems to be having fun with this collab. They released a short video on Instagram to promote the collection, showing an old timer sitting in his robe and easy chair. As the chords of a Black Sabbath bop begin to play, his eyes go wide, and he grabs his rockin’ new shorts. Then he’s out for a run, pumping his fist in the air, passing other cool rocker dudes wearing other Black Sabbath fits, and dancing through a soccer field.
Some of the more popular styles have already sold out and/or have low inventory, so if the thought of catching serious vert with Henry—that dope little dancing demon—on your shorts appeals, you may not wish to tarry.
Abby Carney is a writer and journalist in New York. A former D1 college runner and current amateur track athlete, she's written about culture and characters in running and outdoor sports for Runner's World, Like the Wind Magazine, The New York Times, and other outlets. She also writes about things that have nothing to do with running, and was previously the editor of a food magazine.
