Because we get so many questions about our “models,” I thought I’d share some of our guidelines:
Rule #1: If you’ve always wanted to be a model, you can’t model for us. We only use gals with real bodies — no additives or preservatives.
Our “models” have real jobs or consuming passions. Since we spend a LOT of time with our “models,” they’ve gotta be interesting and interested, someone with whom we’d want to spend a lot of time.
And always, unselfconsciously confident.
In the end, our “models” are regular women, leading regular lives, lives not so very different from our own.
Missy Park, Founder
I’d love to see plus-size women and clothing in your catalogs. I wrote about this a few years ago and was told there wasn’t enough interest to warrant plus size offerings. A catalog named in support of women being active should include women of all sizes; Americans aren’t getting any thinner, and overweight women who want to move their bodies outdoors want cute gear, too. No, this isn’t a call to celebrate obesity, just a request to represent ‘real’ women with mom bellies and big boobs and the occasional imperfection or larger size in addition to athletes. Thanks for listening.
I know a great model for you… she has 5 kids (triplets included), is in her forties and is exactly the definition of Living Active. Just in case you are looking in Austin, TX for one. 🙂 Her name is Allison.
I appreciate your approach to your models. They are people who demonstrate a fitness level we can all reasonably attain. Not extreme.. not too relaxed. Kudos!
I enjoy your catelog, but all the models look so young! I am 55 years old and I run and work out every day. How about having some models who are more mature? I’m sure there are lots of older models out there.
I have quite a few girls that I think would be perfect for your ‘models’ – they are all part of the biggest Kayak Polo club in the Country – Nebraska Kayak Polo. Some are in Law, some are in construction and some are personal trainers, but all are super passionate outdoors women!
I like your comments. It gives me confidence that my girls will grow up confident and interesting, even when they don’t have perfect model bodies! I know they are great – let the world know too!
Thanks again!
Missy & Title Nine:
Thank you for representing real people in your catalogs. It is an uplifting inspiration to see people as they truly are, living their lives and passion while staying active and healthy in the process.
All the best,
Brit-Simone Sutter
I was going to ask why you didn’t have any models over age 50, but Pam beat me to it. I know many such women here in Colorado. I myself am 52, a hiker/walker, a doctor and a mother of teenage boys (there’s a job for you!).
Thanks for always putting out an inspiring catalog.
I’ve asked before: I’d like you to feature some older women. You always feature these 20-30 somethings but there are plenty of us athletic 40, 50, and 60 year old women that would be an inspiration to a different market. I am 52, buy your clothes, and work out almost every day.
Agreed! As a 24-year-old with dreams bigger than a river, I find the athletic, active 50-somethings just as inspiring as the 20-somethings!
I agree about featuring “older” women.
I am 46, a mother of an awesome 16-year-old young man who just got his driver’s license, I have owned my own business for the last 14 years and am starting another company with my life partner. I work out, travel, spend a lot of time in urban environments as well as at the beach.
I think our demographic is often overlooked.
Patti
I love the stuff in your catalogue. Too bad there is nothing in it that will fit me in this lifetime. How about adding some larger sizes!
I wish i could wear most of the clothes that you carry, but you don’t cater to someone who is a 38-29-44! but then again, nothing i buy anywhere fits correctly
I have worn Title Nine clothing and enjoyed your catalog for many years. But where are the older athletes that used to grace your pages? Time to remedy that situation.
At age 64, I’m a hiker, swimmer, and outdoor photography enthusiast. I work as a substitute teacher, a job that requires physical stamina and being on your feet all day. I am a former marketer and part time writer.
I have three achievements to brag about:
• Climbing my first “fourteener,” 14,230’ Quandary Peak.
• Winning the Communicator of the Year Award from my professional association, The Colorado Chapter of the Business Marketing Association.
• Having the local ABC affiliate, Channel 7 use my outdoor photos on the air.
Show your customers there’s no age limit on vitality or attractiveness. Consider using an older athlete as one of your models.