AKtive Soles hosting community runs throughout the summer

PALMER — AKtive Soles Performance Footwear is hosting a variety of running events over the course of the 2024 summer season.

AKtive Soles is a locally owned and operated small business that specializes in athletic footwear for men, women, and youth.

AKtive Soles also hosts numerous running events throughout the year to help locals stay active and come together as a community.

AKtive Soles owner Anne Thomas said their community events and activities promote positive physical and mental health while fostering genuine social connections.

“In so many ways it brings people together,” Thomas said. “I think our focus is helping people have an active lifestyle helps build deeper relationships with the people and land we live on.”

Those interested in participating in community runs this summer have numerous options to choose from ranging from casual events like the recurring Happy Run to full on race events like the AKtive's Backyard Ultra taking place in July.

Happy Run events are designed to be laid back community runs. According to the AKtive Soles website, the Happy Run course alternates every other week but both routes start at the AKtive Soles Palmer location and end at the Palmer Alehouse.

There's a free raffle held at the end of each Happy Run which includes a pizza from the Palmer Alehouse. Those looking to get an extra raffle ticket can dress up in outfits based on the theme of the week which is listed in the title.

The next Happy Run theme is Red, White and Blue. It follows the Springer route and takes place May 28 at 6 p.m. Happy Run participants are asked to register online prior to the event by visiting happyrunak.com.

The 3rd Annual AKtive's Backyard Ultra race will be held at Government Peak Recreation Area starting at 8 a.m July 13. The race course follows a 4.167 mile loop through single track and ski trails with moderate elevation gains and losses. Racers are encouraged to complete as many loops as they can within each hour to be the official finisher and try to earn their At-Large spot at Bigs Backyard in Tennessee in 2024. Racers will receive thorough instructions and rules in the race handbook after registering.

AKtive Soles added a second store in February of 2023. The new Wasilla store is located at 984 North Meridian Place, Suite D in Wasilla.

The 10th Annual Soles in the Backcountry at AKtive Soles campaign encourages locals to stay active all summer by completing various hikes and challenges outlined in booklets from May 1 to September 30 to earn store discounts.

Those interested in participating in Soles in the Backcountry can pick up booklets from either location. The 2024 summer challenge is $15 and comes with perks such as merchandise, coupons, raffle entries, summer and adventure ideas.

For more information about AKtive Soles Performance Footwear and upcoming events, visit aktivesoles.com.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com