KANSAS CITY, MO (October 1, 2026) – This year, the KC Sports Commission is proud to announce a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the Garmin Kansas City Marathon and The Running Well Store, naming The Running Well Store as the race’s official apparel and accessories designer. The collaboration is the first time the city’s premiere marathon has partnered with an independent local retailer.
“The Running Well Store has been a great long-term partner for our race, so when they approached us about being more involved with the race merchandise and offering elevated products to our runners, that was an easy decision for us.”
– Dave Borchardt, Race Director for the Kansas City Marathon
The Running Well Store has introduced pieces of the marathon collection throughout the summer and fall and just released the event’s signature finisher jacket ahead of the October 17 race. The collection features artwork inspired by Kansas City’s most iconic race and designed by former The Running Well Store manager turned Chicago-area illustrator, Jacob Aiken. The designs were infused with the community’s personality, athletic spirit, and signature Midwest character. The involvement of a local retailer ensured the collection reflects not only the identity of the event, but also the pride of the region they call home.
“We wanted to create high-quality merchandise worthy of this cherished city tradition that draws thousands of runners from across the country and beyond. But this launch is about more than apparel, it’s about celebrating the vibrant energy of Kansas City’s running community and the incredible spectators who line the course each year and help create such a memorable race-day atmosphere.”
– Kathy Gates, owner of The Running Well Store
Featured items from the entire Garmin Kansas City Marathon Collection include:
- KC Marathon Cityscape Crewneck Sweatshirt
- KC Marathon Silo Shoe Bag Lite
- KC Marathon Cityscape T-Shirt
The Running Well Store and the Garmin KC Marathon team have partnered on various activations to amplify the presence of this collection. In addition to digital campaigns and collaborations, The Running Well Store hosted a fashion show in August to showcase the collection. Both organizations have been present at running clubs throughout the region to promote the product as well. The Running Well Store will also have a large presence at the Garmin KC Marathon Health and Fitness Expo leading up to race day.
The Garmin Kansas City Marathon will take place on October 17th and offers a variety of race distances, including the full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K. For registration and race day information, click here.
About The Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation
The mission of the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation is to drive Kansas City’s overall sports strategy, to enrich the quality of life, create economic impact and raise visibility for our region. As a privately-funded nonprofit, we are entirely dependent on your support. For the latest on Kansas City Sports Commission news, follow on Twitter,Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About The Running Well Store
A woman-owned, KC-based running and walking retailer passionate about helping people feel good in every step. From expert shoe fittings to thoughtfully selected footwear, apparel, and accessories, the team works one-on-one with runners, walkers, and active individuals of all levels to find the right fit. Deeply rooted in the Kansas City community, Running Well Store proudly supports local races, training programs, and wellness initiatives that bring people together through movement.