Engineered strictly for the biomechanics of women, the new Windswift LX combines proprietary Q-Foam technology and rigorous wear-testing to deliver the ultimate endurance run

Ryka, the female athletic footwear pioneer and one of the Caleres (NYSE:CAL) brands, today announced the launch of the Windswift LX, the brand's most advanced and performance-driven running shoe. Building on its legacy as the No.3 walking brand and No. 10 Performance Brand in the United States as measured by Circana, Ryka’s latest innovation represents a powerful new stride into the competitive running space, launching nationwide on June 30, 2026.

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Windswift LX pictured in Black Mesh, Matcha Green Mesh, White Multi, and Confetti Pink Mesh

Women in sports are in the spotlight, and Ryka continues to champion female athletes by addressing a woman’s unique foot shape, muscle movement and build. The Windswift LX is designed around the Q Angle — the inside angle of the quadriceps muscle that is 3-4 percent greater in women than men. This critical difference impacts stance, weight distribution and ultimately, running efficiency. By utilizing a female-specific last featuring a narrower heel and wider forefoot, the Windswift LX provides a secure, high-performance fit that prevents foot sliding and maximizes comfort.

Independently validated by Heeluxe, a third-party footwear performance testing company, the Windswift LX performed comparably to top market running competitors, noted Dr. Geoffrey Gray of Heeluxe. Furthermore, the shoe underwent grueling endurance testing, with wear testers logging well over 300 miles.

"I’ve been personally wear-testing the Windswift LX from our very first prototype, logging countless miles to ensure every single detail was perfected for the female runner," said Chelsea Aaberg, general manager of Ryka. "The step-in comfort is immediate, but what truly sets this shoe apart is how the new Q-Foam technology and our women-specific last respond over time. It completely changes the game for your running endurance and support, allowing women to run further and train harder without compromise. This is truly our strongest run yet."

Key Performance & Technical Features:

Enhanced Q-Foam Cushioning: Tuned specifically for running, the midsole features 29% softer Q-Foam forefoot cushioning compared to previous models, offering maximum shock absorption and high energy return at a highly competitive weight of just 226 grams (7.97ounces per shoe)
Optimized Running Stride: Built on a running-specific last with an 8 7.5mm drop, plus increased heel and toe spring for a smoother, more responsive push-off.
Superior Traction & Durability: A lightweight, high-abrasion rubber plate outsole adds optimal grip with minimal weight. The upper utilizes Ryka Shield stain resistance to keep them cleaner longer.
Climate Comfort & Fit: Breathable, high-density engineered mesh maintains fit consistency. A Secure Fit internal panel discourages sliding, complemented by an enhanced foam padded collar and a padded, tethered tongue for long-run comfort.
Anatomical Q-Insole: Provides targeted arch and heel support, featuring an anti-microbial and anti-odor top cloth.
Road Safety: Reflective accents are integrated for increased visibility during night or early morning runs.

The Windswift LX will be priced at $139.99. It will be available in seven colorways — Black, White/Multi, Confetti Pink, Brilliant White, Black/Black, Cornflower Blue and Matcha Green — and sizes 5-12, in both medium and wide options. The Windswift LX will be available for retail on Ryka.com, Nordstrom.com.

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Carolyn Graber

AMP3 Public Relations

carolyn@amp3pr.com

914-714-2758