The Reluctant Marathoner
My name is Aaron Perry, founder of Ultra Lyte Running. Here is my story as a college buiding a company for my community, the enduance community. During my senior year of high school, I ran my first marathon. Coming from a soccer background, I had always hated running. Yet, despite my reluctance, I pushed through and finished. After crossing the finish line, I swore I'd never do it again. A few days later, I found myself signing up for a 50k, then a half Ironman, the Leadville 100, and an Ironman scheduled for 2025. That unexpected journey became the foundation for what would soon be my passion: endurance sports.
The Birth of Ultra Lyte Running
Ultra Lyte Running was born in the early days of my sophomore year of college. Frustrated by the discomfort caused by small but crucial items bouncing around in my shorts or tights during runs, I decided to solve the problem myself. I designed the Endurance Hat, featuring pockets to store gels, a key fob, a credit card, or other small essentials. That same year, I entered a Shark Tank-style competition at my college and placed second. The competition brought recognition and valuable feedback, which led to opportunities to speak about my business. Since then, I’ve been invited back annually to share the journey of Ultra Lyte Running.
Endurance by Design: For the One Percent
At Ultra Lyte Running, our design process is rooted in the belief that the smallest details can make the biggest difference for endurance athletes. We focus on the 1% improvements—those seemingly minor adjustments that prevent discomfort from becoming a race-ending issue over long distances. Every material, stitch, and feature is chosen with purpose, ensuring that our gear minimizes friction, enhances breathability, and offers the durability needed to endure extreme conditions. For ultra runners, comfort isn't just a luxury; it's a critical factor in performance. Our goal is to create gear that eliminates distractions, allowing athletes to focus on their race, not their equipment.
Taking the Stage: Sharing the Journey
The success of Ultra Lyte Running and the Endurance Hat didn’t just open doors—it caught the attention of surrounding news networks and the Better Business Bureau, giving the brand greater visibility. These features allowed me to share the story behind the company and my journey as an entrepreneur with a broader audience. Each opportunity to speak, whether at events or through media outlets, helped build recognition for Ultra Lyte Running and reinforced our mission to provide gear designed specifically for endurance athletes.
Where We Are Now: The Next Chapter
Since launching the Endurance Hat in 2023, we’ve continued to grow and improve. The second edition of the Endurance Hat, released after gathering feedback from our run. Looking forward, Ultra Lyte Running plans to introduce more products designed specifically for endurance athletes. Our commitment is simple: we’re not trying to be a jack of all trades. We do one thing right, providing high-quality, comfortable endurance gear that’s designed for the 1%.