The Rise of Running Clubs: Why Running Together Is Making a Global Comeback

 

The Rise of Running Clubs 

Running has always been a solo sport — but lately, it’s become one of the most social movements in the world. Across cities from Amsterdam to New York, run clubs are thriving, turning everyday runners into connected communities.

At the same time, there’s a new kind of runner on the rise: the independent, the clubless, the ones who prefer their own rhythm but still crave connection.

That’s where Small Stitch comes in. We design apparel that celebrates all runners — those who wear their club colours proudly, and those who find belonging through shared humour, pace, and personality.

 

The Global Boom in Running Clubs

Running clubs have transformed from small neighbourhood meetups into international communities.

- According to Strava, the number of run clubs globally has tripled in recent years, with huge growth in social and community-focused groups.

- In France, new club formation increased sixfold, while in Brazil it surged by nearly 800%.

- Over half of Gen Z runners say they join clubs to make friends, not to compete.

More than just fitness, today’s running culture is about connection, shared experience, and identity. Clubs have become places to meet people, share goals, and celebrate running in all its forms — from casual weekend jogs to marathon milestones.

Celebrating the “Clubless” Runners

But not every runner wears a club logo — and that’s perfectly fine. Some of the most dedicated runners prefer going solo, setting their own pace and path.

At Small Stitch, we want to be the unofficial club for those runners.

That’s why we’ve created collections like:

- Little Legs Club — for those of us who finish strong, even if we’re not the tallest in the pack.

- Forest Folk Runner Club — for those nature lovers.

- Good Boys/ Girls Club — an ode to all our dog lovers.

These designs connect people through shared quirks and humour — little nods that make you smile when you spot someone else wearing the same tee on your morning loop.

 

Partnering With Run Clubs

We also team up with run clubs to create custom designs that celebrate their community — from local pride to inside jokes. Each collab is simple and hands-off: we handle the design and production so clubs can focus on building their community.

It’s a simple, sustainable way to celebrate your community and earn funds for your next event or social run.

 

Why Apparel Matters

Running shirts aren’t just fabric — they’re conversation starters. They tell stories, spark nods from strangers, and connect people through a shared love of the sport.

Whether you run with a club or by yourself, what you wear can turn an ordinary run into a moment of belonging.

That’s what Small Stitch is all about: building community through creativity, one shirt at a time.

 

The Takeaway

Running is bigger than pace or distance — it’s about people.

From the clubs that build community to the solo runners who quietly show up every day, every runner has a story worth wearing.

At Small Stitch, we’re here for all of them.

Because whether you run together or alone, you’re still part of something bigger.