K-Swiss, the US footwear company, has agreed a new long-term sponsorship deal with the World Triathlon Corporation, which runs the Ironman Triathlon, to produce a range of co-branded shoes. The four-year deal is an attempt by K-Swiss to boost exposure of its burgeoning running business.

The range, which will include running shoes, trainers and sandals,  will be sold online and on-site at Ironman events. The shoes are also due to be sold in specialty running shops in 2010. 

Erik Verbloet, K-Swiss sports marketing director, said of the deal: "Ironman athletes demand top-performing products to endure the rigorous training and competition. K-Swiss has spent the last several years developing and testing our products with world-class Ironman athletes, culminating in products that are ready to perform at the highest level, and uphold the Ironman logo."

K-Swiss will be the official run course sponsor throughout 2009 for Ironman events in the US, UK and Germany including both World Championships.

Ironman triathlons are a series of long-distance triathlon races organised by the World Triathlon Corporation consisting of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike race and a 26.2 mile marathon run. The Ironman Triathlon World Championships has been held annually since 1978 was pioneered by the US Navy Commander John Collins who suggested the combination of a long distance swim, bike ride and marathon was the only way to discover the true 'Ironman'.

Andy Giancola, director of sponsorship and licensing for Ironman said: "K-Swiss understand the Ironman brand's DNA very well and have invested the necessary resources to develop an amazing line of footwear and apparel products."