A tough marathon with her uncle in 2006 led executive recruiter Lacie Whyte to a new career. As she struggled through 100% humidity after a too-fast start, Whyte tried to distract herself by checking out the other runners' apparel—and didn't like the boxy, cotton gear she saw. She finished the race and went home to Chicago to found Swirlgear, resolved to develop a women's running apparel brand that was both fashionable and functional.