Hello all, I’m Mike Stoffer, and welcome to Running Gear and Apparel. Before delving into my brand, I’d like to share a bit about myself. Running has always been more than just a sport to me—it’s a passion that’s intertwined with every aspect of my life. From the joy of races to the bond formed in teams, running has continuously shaped my journey.
My running career kicked off with remarkable moments, both in high school and college. I specialized in the mile event in Track & Field, achieving a personal best of 4:15. It wasn’t merely about the victory of beating the clock; it was about feeling a deeper sense of purpose, embracing discipline, and relishing the joy that running consistently brought into my world.
However, my running journey faced a major turn due to a severe knee injury during my freshman year in college. This was one of those life-altering moments, leading me to retire my competitive shoes earlier than I’d planned. Yet in hindsight, these setbacks often unlock new pathways. For me, that new avenue was coaching.
I spent an enriching decade coaching high school track & field and cross country. It was deeply gratifying to guide young athletes, helping them discover their potential and witness the transformative power that sport holds. Watching the skills, resilience, and confidence that athletes nurtured on the track translate into their lives off-track was a rewarding experience.
Now, with Running Gear and Apparel, my mission is to continue this supportive role within the running community by offering high-quality gear tailored for runners of all levels. This brand is an extension of my lifelong passion. It stands as a hallmark of my commitment to staying connected with the community I deeply cherish.
In the next section, I’ll share how this passion for running and coaching forged the creation of Running Gear and Apparel, highlighting how our products aim to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.