How I Built This with Guy Raz inov-8: Wayne Edy
Sep 13, 2021
Wayne Edy, founder of inov-8, shares his remarkable journey from a 20-year shoe industry veteran to creating a successful trail running brand. He discusses the initial risks he took, focusing on niche markets like trail running, and how his shoes gained traction among elite athletes. Edy reflects on the challenges during the 2008 crash and his unique designs that stood out. He also talks about expanding into CrossFit and the emotional complexity of repurchasing his brand during the pandemic, showcasing resilience and innovation.
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Childhood in Zimbabwe
- Wayne Edy grew up in Zimbabwe, spending weekends and holidays at a lake cottage.
- At 12, he bought and rebuilt a motorcycle, showcasing an early engineering mindset.
Early Career and Apprenticeship
- Edy pursued engineering through an apprenticeship with Bata, a footwear company, at 16.
- This provided a foundation in footwear, covering various aspects from manufacturing to marketing.
Finding a Niche
- When launching a brand, finding a niche is crucial for success.
- Edy combined his sports shoe experience with outdoor knowledge to create the mountain athletic brand concept.