Leeds runner Nathan Edmondson launches sportswear brand EDRA

EDRA, a new British running apparel brand created in Leeds, launches today (29 June) with a full summer running collection.

The brand was founded by Leeds-based Nathan Edmondson, a former professional cyclist and competitive runner who has won the Leeds Marathon and represented Great Britain in mountain running. Its waiting list was given early access on Saturday 27 June, and the full first collection is now on sale to the public at edrasports.com.

EDRA is named after the River Aire, which runs through Edmondson’s home city, and the kit was developed and tested with help from runners on the Leeds road, trail and fell scene.

Almost every item carries EDRA’s signature mark, a line tracing the river’s curve, as a reminder of where the brand started.

Edmondson, who raced as a professional cyclist for years before switching to competitive running, said the brand came from everyday irritations rather than a big plan.

“Most of the design choices came from things that have annoyed me over the years: kit that rides up, rubs, traps heat or gives you one more thing to think about when you’re already working hard. I wanted to fix that for runners here before anyone else.”

DROP 1

Instead of launching with one hero product, EDRA has created DROP 1, a complete system for summer running covering race day and daily training. Elite runners tested each item through several rounds of samples.

The collection comprises the FLOATLITE Race-Ready Singlet, FLOATLITE Split Shorts, FLOATLITE Run Sock, CHANNEL Running Tee, CHANNEL Pinch Top Cap, CONVEY with FLOATLITE Half Tight and a Unisex Cotton Tee.

The lead product is the FLOATLITE Half Tight, which uses EDRA’s CONVEY carrying system to hold several gels as well as a phone and keys, and is designed for marathons and long runs.

The range is split into three lines. FLOATLITE is the race-ready range using the lightest technology. CHANNEL is the core sports range, offering wicking and light weight with a more durable construction. CONVEY covers items designed around carrying capacity.

Prices run from £15 to £75, which Edmondson said was deliberate: “Good running brands should inspire people to run and take part, not make them feel like they’re on the outside looking in.”

The website is available across the UK, but the brand’s priority for the next few months is building links with Leeds running clubs and races, ahead of a national push planned for 2027.