May 2025

May Musings: Trail Runs, Trousers & That Sweet Outdoor Magic

by Kasia Bromley

May has been a weird and wonderful mix of all things business, family, and the outdoors—so basically, just another month in my world! One thing I’m particularly pleased about is that I managed to up my trail running game (which I love). My regular runs are usually around 5km, but this month I surprised myself with a longer one—just shy of 9km!

I didn’t plan it, it just kind of… happened. I was out soaking up the fresh post-rain air in the woodlands, enjoying some much-needed alone time (a rare treat as a mum, wife, and entrepreneur). I was in my element and before I knew it, I’d clocked a much longer distance than usual. That’s the thing about me—I don’t run to challenge myself or hit targets. I’m just out there for the pure joy of nature. I always come back feeling happier, re-energised, more patient, and a whole lot more relaxed.

This month, I also took a week off for half term to spend some quality time with my children. I’ve always worked through at least part of the school holidays, so it felt really special to fully switch off and just hang out with them—even if it was a bit chaotic at times! I did my best to unplug (not exactly my strong suit), and we packed in a lovely mix of activities—from zoo visits, baking and T-shirt workshops to walks, runs, and bike rides.

Family fun is always balanced around the day-to-day demands of the business. Back in the office, it’s been a busy month filled with new product sign-offs, fit sessions, and planning some exciting things for later in the year. Joe and I also took a trip to London for a couple of business workshops at the LinkedIn office—which was pretty cool! We don’t get to do much business side-by-side these days, so it was really nice to spend a day getting inspired together.

The Big Highlight? Our ‘Outdoor Trousers for Everybody’ Campaign

This month’s proudest moment by far has been the launch of our Outdoor Trousers for Everybody campaign. We’ve expanded our performance trouser range to include straight and flared leg shapes—which is so exciting—but what really means the most to me is what this step represents.

When I started ACAI, my mission was simple: to inspire more women to spend time outdoors and experience the healing power of nature. Our first product—the MAX Stretch Skinny Outdoor Trousers—is still one of our bestsellers today. We later introduced a thermal version for winter adventures, and the super-durable Aventurite Skinny for the more hardcore hikers.

From the start, we focused on fit and inclusivity. We added four leg lengths and expanded our size range from UK6 to UK22. I won’t sugarcoat it—doing that as a small business in the early days was no easy feat. But it mattered. To me, and to my team. Because from day one, our mission and purpose has always been incredibly important to us.

Introducing new styles and silhouettes is the next step in our mission—offering more women more choice in how they feel confident and comfortable outdoors. I know we still have a way to go in truly catering to the full diversity of women and becoming even more inclusive, but this was a real pinch-me moment as a founder. It felt like an important milestone on our journey to inspire more women to get outside and enjoy the wellbeing benefits of nature.

And just in case you’re wondering—yes, we’re staying women-focused, always. That wasn’t a happy accident—it’s a deliberate, passionate choice. Myself and the amazing team at ACAI believe in building a better, more purposeful outdoor brand, one that’s made by women, for women who love the outdoors.

With love,

Kasia