Haas Picks up K-Swiss Sponsorship

Tommy Haas has ended his endorsement of Limited Brands

K-Swiss started out being a niche tennis brand nearly 40 years ago, one mostly club players and sailors knew about. Then it transitioned into a more urban brand, picking up a huge fashion following in the process. Now, its shooting to grow more by turning back to its athletic roots and picking up pro athletes (something it has never done) in the past. They've officially picked up Anna Kournikova (while a great from the photogenic standpoint I'm not sure its adding to their 'performance' claims), Alona Bondarenko, Cara Black, and Liezel Huber. With Haas, they're adding both a great pitch person, but also a great player (currently world #12).

Paraphrasing from Tennis Week:

The two-time Australian Open semifinalist is changing his stripes and will wear the distinctive five-striped trademark of K-Swiss when the 2008 season opens in Australia. Haas has signed a three-year endorsement deal as a new spokesman for K-Swiss and will wear K-Swiss clothes and apparel on court starting in January.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"I remember seeing K-Swiss as a kid when I was starting my tennis career and am thrilled to be associated with a brand with such a strong heritage," Haas said. "I am obviously excited about the performance tennis styles but also eager to collaborate on off court opportunities as well."

Haas will appear in the Spring 2008 advertising campaign for the brand. Shot in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the campaign features Haas wearing performance tennis and lifestyle apparel and footwear. The partnership also includes personal appearances for the brand and assistance in the design of future performance collections.

The new global K-Swiss advertising campaign, featuring Haas and other K-Swiss athletes, will make its debut in February, 2008. The campaign will be showcased in television, print, on-line, and outdoor venues.

"Tommy is a perfect fit for K-Swiss given our strong classic tennis heritage," Jennifer Weiderman, VP of Marketing for K-Swiss said. "His leadership on the court, style, and passion make him a perfect brand ambassador for K-Swiss.”

Haas' new K-Swiss wardrobe will include a sleeveless shirt — a tribute to Haas' storied sartorial past. Five years ago, Haas made Grand Slam history at the 2002 U.S. Open and incited a spontaneous disappearing act in the process.

K-Swiss Men's Ascendor SLT (Blue/Platinum) - The unique DuraFlow upper combined with lightweight EVA and TPU Cushion Board provide the optimal balance between lightweight and stability. The DuraWrap LT high-abrasion toe guard and DragGuard create a durable barrier between the court and the foot.

K-Swiss Men's Ultrascendor (Wh/Nvy/Slvr)- The Ultrascendor combines performance features with lightweight materials and design elements that minimize the weight of the shoe.

K-Swiss Men's Accomplish Polo- Micro polyester with mesh inserts at the shoulders and chest. Three-button placket and rib collar. Side vents for ease of movement. Embroidered shield at left sleeve. Five-stripe detail at left chest. K-Swiss 7.0 System apparel technology features technologically advanced fabrications and design elements. Features UltraCel moisture-wicking fabric.

K-Swiss Men's Accomplish Court Short- 100% Peached polyester microfiber. Elastic waitsband with draw cord. Deep side pockets and velcro back pocket. Embroidered shield at bottom left front. Five-stripe detail at top right pocket. White short is fully lined. 6 1/2" inseam. K-Swiss 7.0 System apparel technology features technologically advanced fabrications and design elements. Features UltraCel moisture-wicking fabric.