It's no secret the world of running is in the midst of her maiden voyage to the center of the cultural zeitgeist. Major fashion houses, multi-billion dollar brands, influencers, the list goes on with people flooding the "running" scene. A rising tide raises all boats, so hey, we can't be too upset. But if a rising tide raises all boats, let me tell you the name of the ocean: Run Specialty Retail Stores. They are the community drivers and the cultural tastemakers. If you look deep enough, there is a global network of run specialty shops who talk, run, collaborate, and build community. Without them there is no bedrock of this running industry.
All that to say, we're very honored and excited to tap in with our friends (and newest stockists) from across the pond, London-based Runlimited. Without further adieu, please meet Co-Founders Jonty Brown and Molly Bryan...
Let’s just dive head-first. Who are you Jonty Brown and Molly Bryan? Where’d you grow up, what's your role at Runlimited, how'd you get into running? You know the drill...
JB: I am northern born and raised, always been into extreme sports, music, the outdoors and anything to help get rid of all the energy I had as a kid. I've been lucky enough to live all over the world, friends always joke that I've lived a thousand lives. I got into running over lockdown, met Molly, became best pals, realised we both LOVE running, leaders of communities and clubs in london we soon found out we both had this dream. To become co- founders of runlimited, create an inspiring environment, change running retail and bring all communities together in a really exciting way.
MB: I have a slightly less exciting back story than Jonty, but who says Essex isn’t exciting!? I’ve been running ever since I remember, falling in love with Cross Country aged 12. I loved the mud, that taste of blood from your lungs when you’ve pushed yourself, topped off with the added bonus of getting a day off school to participate in competitions.
As Jonty mentioned, we met a few years back, at an ultramarathon, bonding over our love of running and early mornings. The more time we spent together, the bigger the dream became. We became set on making “running” our jobs and to build something great for the community. Runlimited was born.
Okay, before we jump into any related follow up questions, because we like to keep it spicy... What’s one thing you’ve never really said in an interview about yourself?
JB: Geeze, where do you go from here. I’m not sure if this will help others or not but Running has changed my life. In soooooo many ways. I’ve met some of my closest friends, experienced things I never thought possible. We now own a running store. MENTAL. Maybe this is an appreciation to running. Running. I love you. Take a second to appreciate what running has done for you.
MB: When I was a kid I wanted to be a pole vaulter, I was totally obsessed. My parents took me to the Commonwealth Games just to watch it. Unfortunately I’m 5ft4 and have absolutely no natural talent when it comes to pole vaulting. I went to one class, was absolutely terrified and never went back. Same story with karate and netball. Luckily, running stuck.
Reigning it back in... From across the pond, we’ve loved watching UK run culture evolve. Our man about-the-globe, Steve Finley, hosted a community dinner in London this past Fall and we’re excited to come to our first London Marathon in the Spring. What can you tell us about UK/London run culture? Give us a little bit of a scene report. Any major differences you’ve noticed in London relative to say, NYC, or other big cities around the globe?
JB: I think each city has its unique. Its own personalities, be it more social, more style, more party more performance. I love sharing what London has to offer through the wildly diverse, beautiful communities. Im glad we could show Steve the london scene and that was just scratching the surface…..we have bigger plans *wink back at ya*
MB: I can’t speak from direct experience to compare the London running scene to other big cities. If I escape London I tend to seek quieter places to run in nature. London as a city is incredibly diverse, and I feel this is reflected in the London running scene. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a social focussed group, women only, totally beginner or something more training focussed. There’s always room for improvement, as with anything, we hope with Runlimited we can support the wider community to get even more people into running, so more people can experience the physical and mental benefits.
(^ Shoutout our boy Liam! Real ones know.) Now with Runlimited, what’s the big goal? You’ve had some amazing pop-ups and temporary activations. Are we going permanent now?
JB: So we have extended the lease on our location in St Pauls (area in the heart of London), looking at a couple of other locations in the city too for permanent spaces, also trying to keep st pauls as long as we can. But to summarise, we want to have a Runlimited in every key community area in the world. Partnering with the best brands/communities out there and creating a space/feel that accommodates and excites every corner of the world, in a collaborative and unique way.
MB: We were always set on having permanent bricks and mortar. It has been a huge privilege to have pop-ups across different areas of London, experiencing different neighbourhoods. As Jonty mentioned, the Cheapside store isn’t going anywhere soon, but Runlimited has an exciting future ahead and we can’t wait to build spaces for the wider community.
What inspires you? How are you integrating those inspirations into the Runlimited world/store experience?
JB: I used to work in skate/surf/snow shops and they were always place of inspiration, a hub that made you instantly feel safe, respected, at home. The running retail space, especially here in London, never gave that feeling back. That's why we wanted to create Runlimited, somewhere that gives you everything and more. From niche products to big brand moments, real knowledge and expertise from real runners and a safe space for all runners/communities.
MB: I feel things very deeply, and have always been very inspired by people around me, whether that be professional athletes or first timers just putting on shoes and getting out the door. For me, Runlimited is a space for everyone, and I hope people feel that when they come in. I want to run until I’m grey and old - I hope what we’re doing helps people do the same.
What are you hoping to bring to run culture in the UK with Runlimited?
JB: Excitement, education, experiences.
MB: A safe and exciting place for runners to hang out. Connecting with people and brands through shared experiences and collaborations.
Alright, time for a speed round of questions to break things up. And away... we... go:
Favorite trainer to run in these days?
JB: Adidas BYD for those long miles.
Favorite piece of non-running clothing you've acquired recently?
MB: UNIQLO Seamless Down Parker. A classic! It's saved me on dog walks in this freezing weather.
Album/music that you discovered recently that you’ve been rinsing:
JB: Doechii alligator bits never reveal album.
Dream marathon/race you have on the bucket-list?
MB: Berlin Marathon. I was meant to race last year, but dropped out due to injury so I'm even more determined to get back to full fitness and give it a crack.
One quote you love/think about a lot?
MB: Don't expect a seat if you bring nothing to the table.
What’s one thing you’re most excited about in 2025 as it relates to what you’re building with Runlimited?
JB: London Marathon week is going to be THE major event in the calendar for us this year, but till then, we have some super exciting moments in store. Excited to share with the world soon...
MB: Echo. It’s got to be London Marathon week. London feels different that week. There’s a nervous but exciting buzz and we can’t wait to be part of it. I also get the pleasure of running it this year (Jonty and I take it in turns).
What’s been your proudest moment with your involvement related to Runlimited?
JB: Seeing the reactions on peoples faces when they come in store, at the events, connecting with communities. Pure joy and I LOVE IT
MB: I love our leader's retreats. We’ve so far hosted three events, bringing together London run club leaders and for a day or evening to relax, eat and connect. I think it’s important to learn from each other, as well as take the time to thank those that give up their time week on week to support their communities.
For someone traveling from across the pond over to the UK - how would you recommend they spend the perfect day in London? Give us some insider reco’s!
JB: Start off with a run! There are so many incredible communities here in London and some beautiful spaces to explore. Then get yourself down to Runlimited for a gait analysis and coffee, get your hands on Bandit apparel*wink*. Find yourself a nice park to walk around and finish in a cozy pub with some pals you met at the runclub/runlimited store.
MB: Find and friend, or head out to Epping Forest for a solo run. My favourite loop heads up from Wanstead, weaves through the forest to Highams Park, around the lake and back. You can find the route on our website run hub. Head to The Dusty Knuckle bakery in Dalston for lunch - best sandwich you’ll ever eat! Spend the afternoon spotting some incredible architectural homes. There is a set of walks and cycle ride guides called Perambulations that are amazing, my favourite is around Greenwich in South East London. Finish the day off with some delicious Vegan dinner at Naifs in Peckham, and maybe a little negroni at El Vermut in Nunhead.
Awesome. Can’t wait to hang in your home city next year. Any parting words, shoutouts, etc.?
JB: BIG shout out to the Bandit team, what we are about to do in London is going to be nothing but AMAZING. BIG LOVE from the other side of the pond! Peace.
MB: Whether you’re running the London Marathon or not, get yourself to London that week. We’re cooking up a storm.
