If you’re a runner in New York City, you’ve likely heard of Brooklyn Running Co. The store is nestled between Driggs and Grand in Williamsburg and floods with runners every Tuesday and Wednesday night for Brooklyn Track Club and Girls Run NYC practices. Brooklyn Running Co. is the second running store for Matt Rosetti and Matt Byrne, competitive runners who grew up together in Pennsylvania. The duo opened Scranton Running Co. in 2010, then spotted an opportunity in New York, where Rosetti has lived since the late ’90s. They wanted to create a hub to support local runners and help newer runners get advice from more experienced ones — and in November of 2013 (right around New York Marathon weekend), Brooklyn Running Co. opened its doors.

“We have a slightly different approach to running and running specialty,” says Steve Crnic, the store’s events and marketing manager, longest-tenured employee and a former NYU metric miler. “We have such a wide variety of products, and we emphasize a certain customer-first ideology.” The team listens to what runners in Brooklyn want — even if that means the shoe wall isn’t the most colorful one around. “The running joke is that everyone in Brooklyn wears black shoes,” Crnic says. “In the fall our shoe wall tends to look neutral and muted. We carry a lot of colors, but we cater to the neighborhood’s taste and preference. The number one driver of shoe sales is: ‘Does it come in black?’”

Beyond being the starting point and bag check for two local run clubs, Brooklyn Running Co. is also the emissary for athletes who run with RunBK. Any local athletes can have their gear fulfilled at the store. On Sundays, there’s occasionally a meetup for casual fun runs. And then there’s the biggest event of the year, the Brooklyn Mile. Four years ago, roughly 800 people ran, and this year the company hopes for more than 1,100. “We have the fast movers — the elite performers — as well as the open division, non-competitive friends and family wave,” Crnic says. “Running is relative, so [even] if you’re not first or second, you can always beat your personal best.” This year’s race (which you can sign up for it here) takes place June 16th.

Here’s all the gear Crnic reaches for on race day — including at this year’s Boston Marathon.

Nike Vaporfly 4%

Nike’s Vaporfly 4% are some of the fastest racing shoes available. Crnic snagged a pair for his Boston Marathon race day. “I love the color of these shoes, plus the performance aspects are well-documented, and they feel great. They’re lightweight, well-cushioned shoes with a snappy, springy feel that makes marathon running feel natural!”

Tracksmith Split Shorts

Requisite for running (or cheering) the Boston marathon is repping Boston-based brands, like Tracksmith. “These shorts are super light, they look great and they have plenty of pockets in the back for storing gels for the marathon,” Crnic says.

Knockaround Mai Tai

“Boston was pretty sunny by midway, and so it would have been nice to have some shades to reduce eye fatigue,” Crnic says. He loves the frame options from Knockaround, one of our favorite brands, too. The plethora of sleek colorways are super affordable.

Stance Uncommon Run QTR

“The best socks I’ve ever worn, hands down (feet down?),” Crnic says. We’d have to agree. Stance makes no-show, ankle, quarter and calf socks — all of which are perfect for any running temperature and distance. They’re comfortable, moisture-wicking and the fit is always on point, Crnic notes.

BKTC Club Singlet

For the big race day, Crnic donned the Brooklyn Track Club all-black singlet. He loves that it’s made with a lightweight, comfortable material that wicks. To get one of your own, you’ll have to join the Brooklyn Track Club.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.