Few business owners can say their brick-and-mortar store survived SuperStorm Sandy, the cultural transition to online shopping, and COVID-19.
But Runner’s High has been a mainstay on Main Street for more than 24 years — and doesn’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon.
Owner Rob DeFilippis wasn’t born an avid runner, but with the support of a high school gym teacher, eventual success as a D1 cross country and track athlete, and some brand deals after college graduation, he’s now “53, broken ribs, still running, coaching track, and owning two stores… it’s all been integrated into a nice little package.”
With stores in both Metuchen and Freehold, Runner’s High stands out among the most well-known sneaker shops, offering both competition and leisure apparel, various nutrition items, and must-have accessories for athletes of all levels.
But a wide selection of goods is only as appealing as the personnel behind the operation. DeFilippis knows that the customer-centric approach of a boutique makes all the difference.
Runner’s High has been a mainstay on Main Street for more than 24 years — and doesn’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon.
“Apples to apples, a certain brand of shoe in my store is no different than in a big store or on their website,” DeFilippis said. “The vendor sets up pricing, so the only difference is you’re gonna get [solid] customer service and a shoe that works for you. Other places don’t fit you with the attention you deserve.”
At “New Jersey’s premier specialty running shop,” DeFilippis and his team of highly trained passionate Fit Specialists know exactly how to personalize the shoe buying experience. With bigger stores, the goal is to get you in and out as quickly as possible.
“Buying shoes randomly isn’t good,” said DeFilippis. “Getting someone to fit your foot — if you need arch support, learning what makes sense, if there is enough cushioning for each individual — that’s invaluable.”
Working with people, making changes in their lives, and helping them achieve their goals is one of DeFilippis’ favorite parts of the business.
“When I have a customer that looks at me and says, ‘You’re better than the doctor was,’ or ‘I have no more pain in my feet,’ or ‘My hips don’t bother me,’ that’s pretty rewarding.”
But you don’t just get a great shoe-buying experience at Runner’s High — you also get community. Monthly group runs welcome any and all paces for 3 to 4 miles, and also provide vendor pop-ups and partnerships with local establishments, like Hailey’s Harp & Pub, bringing running enthusiasts of all skill levels together.
And if you have gently worn sneakers that no longer fit your feet or style, you can clean out your closet, help those in need, and make a positive impact on the environment through Runner’s High’s recycling program. In 2024 alone, Runner’s High collected more than 1,500 pounds of old shoes, but they’ve hosted a recycling program for 20 years.
In terms of what the next 20 years hold, DeFilippis simply says that evolving is the name of the game.
“The running industry, and shoes, are booming and growing as a whole,” said DeFilippis. But no matter the industry, you have to constantly reinvent yourself to stay one step ahead of the internet.
“Social media has changed everything,” he explained. “It’s one more thing on the small business owner’s plate.”
Keeping the Runner’s High legacy alive is the long-term goal.
“I think we’re a staple in the community, and that’s a big thing in this world today,” said DeFilippis. “Keep shopping small, keep shopping local. If you spend money at Runner’s High, that money stays on Main Street. Keep the money home and keep it going. It goes to the UPS guy, the pizza shop guy… Everyone wins.”
