How We Started

Hi, I’m Sophia, a college runner from San Francisco, California, and the founder of Nuli Run.

After more than five years of competitive running, I kept running into the same problem: I could never find running clothes that were functional, affordable, and actually reflected my style.

I wanted running shorts that performed like running gear but felt more like something I would actually be excited to wear. So, at 18, I decided to make them myself.

I started Nuli Run in college with one simple idea: performance and femininity don’t have to be opposites.

Our first product, the Hibiscus Short, was designed around everything I wanted in a running short: a flattering low-rise V-cut waistband, lightweight and flowy fabric, functional details, and a little more personality than the running shorts I was used to seeing.

Nuli is inspired by 努力 (nǔlì), the Chinese word for effort. To me, it represents showing up, putting in the work, and finding joy in the process, whether you're chasing a PR, running with friends, or just getting out the door.

Nuli Run is for girls who run and want their gear to feel like them.

The goal is simple: make running outfits more fun.