This feature is in the December "The Creators" Issue. Click here to subscribe.

Marcus Stroman in a meeting for SHUGO PHOTO BY CARL HARRIS/COURTESY OF ROC NATION SPORTS

It’s not every day that a star athlete develops their own brand while also pitching for one of the nation’s most notable MLB teams. Marcus Stroman (@stroman) stepped out against the grain of athlete endorsements and put his own brand on the plate. SHUGO specializes in comfortable and inclusive lifestyle wear. Below, Stroman gives an inside look at his brand and things to come.

Stroman hopes to host pop-ups and form partnerships as SHUGO grows. MARCUS STROMAN PHOTO BY THOMAS TEAL/COURTESY OF ROC NATION SPORTS AND STUDIO NOYES; BACKGROUND PHOTO BY THOMAS TEAL/COURTESY OF STUDIO NOYES

When did you decide to start your own luxury brand?

The idea started for me when I tore my ACL in 2015. I pride myself on always being extremely prepared physically and mentally, so it was hard not to question if there was an issue with my footwear. Fast forward many years, after a few disappointing footwear and apparel partnerships and getting tired of seeing big-box brands capitalize off the hard work of so many athletes, I decided I wanted to start making footwear for myself.

“IT’S IMPORTANT TO ME TO GET SHUGO IN THE HANDS AND ON THE FEET OF ALL WHO WANT TO EXPERIENCE ITS INNOVATION.” -MARCUS STROMAN

How have you developed a design that will work for athletes of all kinds?

We spent so much time designing these for me and my needs and implemented so many little details that aren’t apparent visually. For instance, we built in a pitching toe to my right spike because having that added on later is often not aesthetically appealing and it starts to pull off. I was very picky about how the shoe laced up, grabbed my foot, cushioned my foot and fit around my ankle to provide support. So we’ve made many changes to make this footwear suitable for a variety of athletes and positions.

The SHUGO footwear comes in a variety of colorways PHOTO: BY THOMAS TEAL/COURTESY OF STUDIO NOYES

What is the science behind the Zero Cleat and Zero Trainer?

Partnering with a design agency that has decades of experience in the footwear space, combined with my expertise as a player living the experience daily, has shaped the formula of SHUGO in a way that no other spike on the market has followed previously. It’s a combination of constant feedback and evolution, supported by the careful selection of materials. Most importantly, it is footwear made for athletes by an athlete. The SHUGO Zero Spike offers midsole cushioning to minimize stud pressure, unmatched forefoot flexibility, secure lacing lockdown, superior traction and optimal balance.

Marcus Stroman. PHOTO: BY THOMAS TEAL/COURTESY OF ROC NATION SPORTS AND STUDIO NOYES

How does your brand support customers with different physiques?

I believe in uplifting athletes of every age and stage of their career, and I believe the term ‘athlete’ is not linear. Whether you’re a baseball player, an athlete at any stage, someone who is committed to their wellness or someone who passionately trains in the gym each day, SHUGO footwear and apparel has been crafted with your needs and comfort in mind. We’re also working toward eventually expanding our size ranges, and finalizing our Team Edition spikes, which will be available in both metals and molds, that will be available [this year] at more inclusive price points.