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Jul 09, 2025

The Power of the Outdoors Arrives in Mexico with Merrell and Desafío en las Nubes

Merrell debuts in Mexico as the official sponsor of “Desafío en las Nubes,” one of the country's most important trail running events, set to take place in Xicotepec, Puebla, from February 20 to 22, 2026.

Merrell is a U.S.-based brand specializing in outdoor footwear and apparel, promoting a strong connection with nature through hiking, trail running, and an active lifestyle. During the press conference held on June 13 in Xicotepec, the brand reaffirmed its commitment to outdoor culture in Mexico, highlighting its three key categories: Hike, Trail Run, and Lifestyle.

The event will feature 15 km, 25 km, 43 km, and 58 km trail options, welcoming runners of all levels and positioning Xicotepec as a key destination for trail running in Mexico.

Mexico City, July 09, 2025 - – On Friday, June 13, the official press conference for Desafío en las Nubes by Merrell was held in Xicotepec de Juárez, Puebla, where it was announced that U.S. outdoor brand Merrell is entering the Mexican market as the official sponsor of this iconic trail running event.

With the tagline “The Power of the Outdoors, Now in Mexico,” Merrell aims to strengthen Mexico's outdoor culture by encouraging trail running and meaningful connections with nature. The brand is globally recognized as a leader in outdoor and trail running gear, with a focus on three main pillars: Hike, Trail Run, and Lifestyle.


Taking place from February 20 to 22, 2026, Desafío en las Nubes will offer challenging courses of 15 km, 25 km, 43 km, and 58 km through Xicotepec's mountainous landscapes—known for their dynamic weather and warm hospitality.

During the press conference, Carlos Barragán, Municipal President of Xicotepec, emphasized the economic and tourism impact of the event, as well as Merrell's role as a strategic partner in elevating the event's quality and international visibility. Strategic alliances were also announced with the local government and the confirmed participation of national and international athletes.


“Merrell, a U.S. company with extensive experience in the outdoor world and a very promising trail running line, joins the event. We know their participation will boost the event and enhance the overall experience. With more partners on board, the ship sails stronger,” said Marcos Ferro, Director of Ultra Trail in Mexico.

The conference highlighted Merrell's growing presence in Mexico as a reference in the outdoor and trail space, adding unique value to the runner experience. It also reinforced Xicotepec's position as a key national destination for trail running.


The event featured key speakers such as Sarai Cuevas (Director of Tourism), Carlos Barragán (Municipal President of Xicotepec), Marcos Ferro (Director of Ultra Trail in Mexico), and Juan Santos (Director of Sports).

Through this partnership, Merrell reaffirms its commitment to promoting outdoor sports and delivering high-performance products to trail enthusiasts in Mexico.

Registrations open in September. For more information, visit: https://desafioenlasnubes.com

Contact:
Ximena Muñoz Alcántara

Public Relations Executive
Email: ximena_munoz@piagui.com
Phone: +52 5543879350

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