International Running Expo retailer Runr has teamed up with Sole Mate, one of Wales’ leading independent running stores, to create a limited-edition running hat that celebrates everything both brands stand for — community, connection, and the positive impact running can have on our mental health.
Who are Sole Mate? Here’s Paul, the owner of Sole Mate, describing who they are:
“Sole Mate was established to enable as many people as possible to reap the physical and mental benefits gained through running and being active.
After my own struggles, where running was definitely my saviour, we wanted the shop to be much more than a shop, and to help people where we could.
We’ve built a weekly social run community where friendships have grown, and we also have the Sole Mate Community Fund, which we use to fund mental health therapy for people in need.”
That passion for helping others through running is exactly why Runr wanted to work with Paul and his team.
The phrase “Don’t Die” — which appears on the collab cap — started out as a bit of a joke during their social runs.
“Basically, it’s our health and safety advice when crossing roads! It’s since ended up on multiple products and always raises a smile in-store.”
We love that story. It sums up the sense of humour, warmth, and community spirit that Sole Mate is all about.
As Craig from Runr says:
“Working with Paul and Sole Mate has been a pleasure from day one.
They’ve built something really special — a place where running is about more than just selling shoes. It’s about supporting people, improving wellbeing, and creating a real sense of belonging.
This collaboration felt like a perfect fit.”
The Runr x Sole Mate ‘Don’t Die’ Cap is available NOW — Runr X Sole Mate.
It’s more than just a hat. It’s a reminder to keep running, keep smiling, and look out for each other along the way.
Runr X Sole Mate