Zuma Blu activewear
photo by athena pelton
Twin Cities couple Lea and Brian Leopold created a line of apparel for casual cyclists, yogis, and runners called Zuma Blu—colorful patterned leggings, sports bras, and bike shorts that are as stylish as they are high-performing.
The two have 20 years of cumulative experience in the retail industry with brands including the Gap, Christopher & Banks, and Target and were inspired by the active California lifestyle they fell in love with while living on the west coast. (Zuma Blu is named after their favorite California beach.)
While athleisure has become a dominant fashion trend in recent years, Zuma Blu differentiates itself by its social mission. As a teenager, Lea Leopold was the subject of bullying, and Zuma Blu’s colorful patterned leggings and sports bras are designed to spark a conversation about the issue. “Activewear gives us the opportunity to promote confidence by addressing issues such as negative body image and bullying,” Lea explains. The brand also donates 10 percent of annual net profits to help fund programs in the Twin Cities that fight childhood bullying. • zumablu.com
