The Company & The Owner

Commonwealth Running Company is a community-first running company that will take what local running stores do best and utilize technology to enhance that experience by offering everything a runner needs in a seamless and comprehensive way. Founded by a distance runner from Chicago, this grassroots running company will look to outfit and supply runners with gear that enhances their running experience, and in doing so, will look to grow the sport and expand a market. The sport of running has greatly benefited from a societal drive to be healthier and people are staying active longer into their lives and we want to help those who are staying active while encouraging more people to find where fitness fits into their life so they can share in a bright and healthy future. Our mission is to expand the sport to more people, making it less intimidating and to reach more people. 

The company is founded and owned by Matthew Abitbol. Matthew Abitbol was born and raised in the Chicago area and first began running in 2008 shortly after losing 100 pounds. To date Matt has run 90 marathons across 39 states. Having started out as an inexperienced, unknowledgeable and overweight runner, Matt always felt that the run specialty experience could be made to be more inclusive and less overwhelming to an average athlete or someone new to running. It has been his dream to bring that experience to life since 2010. Commonwealth Running Company is the embodiment of that dream. It is a locally owned, independent, full-service running store.  We sell footwear, apparel and accessories for running and walking. Our team is committed to enhancing the local running and walking communities through our offering of specialty products, educational resources and training opportunities to help you achieve your goals. We, ourselves, are runners, so we draw on our own experiences as well as our extensive knowledge of footwear and other running gear, in providing you with the best service.  

Mission

Our mission is to expand the sport of running through our local communities every day. Through our inclusive culture, Commonwealth Running Company will knockdown the perceived walls and barriers for a new participant/runner to live a healthier and happier life through the sport of running.

Why "Commonwealth"?

One of the things I really liked about “Commonwealth” was how welcoming and open it feels. The term commonwealth is a traditional English term for “community for the common good.” That’s exactly what I want to build.

I want to create an environment where all runners feel welcome. I also like that it has a loose tie to the Boston Marathon. Boston represents a goal or a dream for most marathoners. While I didn’t want to make non-marathoners or non-Boston-Marathoners feel excluded I did like the idea of having, essentially an Easter egg in the name, for those who have run it. One of the final streets you run on before the finish is Commonwealth Ave. So, the name “Commonwealth Running Company” tied together my personal running journey with what is now my adventure of owning my own run specialty store.

Why a tiger?

A tiger, as a spirit animal, as well as through the Chinese definition, represents...fierce, determination, ambition, strength and courage. Those are all attributes of people who are starting to run. It is having the courage to take that first step and get out there.

What’s with the Colors?

With the color scheme, one of the reasons I like the red, orange and yellow is that it represents a loose tie to Chicago. I like the idea that no matter where Commonwealth may expand or grow to, it will always have its roots in Chicago. Chicago is known as The Second City since the Great Chicago Fire burned the city to the ground and the city that’s here today arose from the ashes. I think of someone who’s just starting to run in a very similar way, with a Phoenix-like new beginning. They’re beginning a new journey and becoming a runner. Sometimes you have to destroy who you are to become who you want to be. So, I wanted a color scheme that is a reminder of where the company originated.

Commonwealth Running Company Review: A Comprehensive Look at a Trusted Destination for Premium Running Gear

In the rapidly growing world of running and fitness, choosing the right equipment can make a significant difference in performance, comfort, and overall experience. Commonwealth Running Company has established itself as a specialized online destination for runners who are seeking premium footwear, performance apparel, and professional-grade running accessories.

Designed with the needs of modern runners in mind, Commonwealth Running Company combines the convenience of online shopping with the expertise and product knowledge typically found in a dedicated running specialty store. The platform offers a carefully selected range of products from leading athletic brands, making it an attractive choice for beginners, recreational runners, and experienced athletes alike.

A Professional Online Store Designed for Runners

The first impression of Commonwealth Running Company is its professional and user-friendly website design. The platform provides a smooth browsing experience, allowing customers to easily explore different categories, compare products, and find equipment that matches their individual running goals.

Unlike general online marketplaces that offer thousands of unrelated products, Commonwealth Running Company focuses specifically on the running community. This specialized approach creates a more personalized shopping environment where customers can find carefully selected products rather than being overwhelmed by countless choices.

The website structure is organized clearly, with intuitive navigation that helps users quickly locate running shoes, apparel, accessories, and other essential gear. Product descriptions are presented in a detailed and informative manner, helping customers understand the features, technology, and intended use of each item before making a purchase.

Premium Running Shoes from Leading Brands

One of the strongest advantages of Commonwealth Running Company is its extensive collection of high-quality running shoes. The store provides access to many respected footwear brands known for innovation, durability, and performance.

Running shoes are not simply athletic products; they are essential equipment that directly affects comfort, injury prevention, and running efficiency. Commonwealth Running Company recognizes this importance by offering shoes designed for different running styles, distances, and performance levels.

Customers can find options suitable for:

• Daily training and everyday running

• Long-distance and endurance activities

• Competitive racing

• Trail running and outdoor adventures

• Stability and support-focused needs

• Lightweight performance training

Each runner has unique requirements based on factors such as foot shape, running technique, training frequency, and personal goals. By providing a diverse selection of models and technologies, Commonwealth Running Company helps customers find footwear that better matches their individual needs.

High-Quality Apparel and Running Accessories

Beyond footwear, Commonwealth Running Company offers a selection of apparel and accessories designed to improve the overall running experience.

Professional runners understand that proper clothing and equipment can influence comfort and performance, especially during longer training sessions or challenging weather conditions. The store provides products designed with functionality, durability, and runner comfort in mind.

Available categories typically include performance clothing, socks, hydration solutions, training accessories, and other essential running equipment. These products allow customers to build a complete running setup from a single specialized retailer.

Focus on Expertise and Customer Experience

A major difference between Commonwealth Running Company and many large online retailers is its focus on customer knowledge and service. Running shoes require more consideration than ordinary purchases because selecting the wrong product may affect comfort and long-term running enjoyment.

The company’s approach reflects the values of a traditional running specialty store: helping customers make informed decisions based on their goals rather than simply selling products.

Customer feedback has highlighted several positive aspects of the shopping experience, including product quality, efficient order processing, competitive pricing, and reliable delivery. Many buyers appreciate the combination of professional product selection and the convenience of online purchasing.

Secure and Reliable Online Shopping Environment

For customers purchasing running equipment online, security and reliability are important factors. Commonwealth Running Company provides a professional e-commerce experience with standard online security features designed to protect customer transactions.

The website offers a straightforward purchasing process, allowing customers to browse products, review details, complete orders, and track deliveries with ease.

As with any online retailer, customers are encouraged to review shipping information, return conditions, and warranty policies before completing their purchase. Understanding these details helps ensure a smooth and satisfactory shopping experience.

Advantages of Choosing Commonwealth Running Company

Extensive Product Knowledge

The company specializes in running products rather than general sporting goods, allowing it to provide a more focused selection for runners.

Premium Product Selection

Customers have access to high-quality footwear, apparel, and accessories from established athletic brands.

Convenient Online Shopping

The website provides an efficient purchasing experience without requiring customers to visit a physical store.

Suitable for Different Types of Runners

Whether someone is starting their running journey or preparing for competitive events, the product range supports various experience levels and training goals.

Runner-Focused Approach

The company demonstrates an understanding of what runners need: comfort, performance, durability, and reliable equipment.

Overall Assessment

Commonwealth Running Company represents a strong option for runners who value quality products, specialized expertise, and a focused shopping experience. Rather than functioning as a general sports retailer, the company maintains a clear identity as a running-focused destination.

With its selection of premium running shoes, performance gear, and runner-oriented service approach, Commonwealth Running Company provides a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their running experience.

For beginners searching for their first reliable pair of running shoes, experienced athletes upgrading their training equipment, or dedicated runners preparing for their next challenge, Commonwealth Running Company offers a professional and convenient solution.

Commonwealth Running Company successfully combines product quality, industry expertise, and online convenience, making it a recommended destination for runners seeking dependable equipment and a specialized shopping experience.