Blyss Running, the Asheville-based maker of women’s athletic apparel, has partnered with Darby Communications to amplify the celebration of its fifth anniversary and new product for Fall ‘20.

Blyss Running was founded by Alyson Neel in 2015, who recognized a lack of running apparel that offered what she was looking for — a functional pocket for her phone, longer lengths that didn’t ride up, higher waistbands and stylish prints that weren’t costumey.

“I was looking for something that looked sophisticated, but felt completely comfortable, like my favorite sweater,” Neel says. “When you feel comfortable, you feel confident and, honestly that’s half the battle when running.”

In 2015, Neel produced her first Blyss Running design and soon after began offering Blyss Running skirts, crops and shorts at running expos. The apparel offered longer lengths to prevent chafing and riding up, a broader waistband with a continuous drawcord for a comfortable fit and three highly functional pockets.

Neel has been able to pivot her sales and marketing to e-commerce, but she is looking forward to the return of running events and in-person sales. “Nothing can replace connecting with my customers in person. We’ve become a community of women who support each other and go after impossible goals together,” she says. “Building those relationships with each other is what makes Blyss Running really special.”