Committed to creating meaningful impact, Runners’ Wings has become a champion for fitness, inclusivity, and community spirit in greater Western Maryland. The downtown Frostburg store, owned by Laura Byrnes, offers a range of athletic footwear, apparel, and accessories for patrons with all mobility and fitness levels.

Driven by her personal passion for running, Byrnes shared her enthusiasm for the sport with her daughters, Maddie and Molly Offstein. In 2023, she opened Runners’ Wings as a way for her daughter, Molly, to reconnect with the running community after a near-fatal accident left her unable to pursue the sport further. The store's ethos is deeply rooted in Molly's resilience and the family’s love of the sport.

“We’ve lived here for over 20 years. I loved raising the girls in Frostburg,” Byrnes shares. “For me, I wanted to give back to the community that embraced us during Molly’s journey. I really couldn’t see us starting the shop anywhere else.” 

Located just a half mile from the Great Allegheny Passage (a frequent destination for running enthusiasts), Allegany County’s notable outdoor attractions and recreation activities make downtown Frostburg an ideal location for Runners’ Wings to connect with the region’s many visitors and strong local running and fitness community. “I felt there was a need in Frostburg since we do not have a running store within an hour’s drive of here,” said Byrnes.

Accessibility was a key consideration for Byrnes when opening Runners’ Wings. “Older buildings are not designed for accessibility, so we paid a lot of attention to finding a storefront that could be wheelchair accessible,” she shares. The layout of Runners’ Wings ensures that those with wheelchairs or walkers can easily maneuver around the displays. Benches and chairs are available at different heights so those with limited mobility can comfortably sit while trying on shoes. 

Runners’ Wings offers various product lines and brands to address different needs and considerations regarding foot care. From shoes, compression clothing, and insoles to reflective gear and protective apparel, Runners’ Wings connects the community with resources to pursue their hobbies safely. “We support and embrace all people getting out and being active,” adds Byrnes.

Beyond its physical premises, the store and its employees actively engage with local races and the wider running community. “During the last ‘Lisa Wade Annual 5K,’ we wanted to support those pursuing athleticism throughout their lives and donated Brooks socks to all participants that were 60 and older. Our employees participated in last year’s rainy ‘Rocky Gap 25-50K Relay.’ It was a fun day for us to join the ultra trail community,” Byrnes said. “We’re celebrating the excellence in running that we have here in Western Maryland and the devotion that the athletes and the coaches have.” 

Runners’ Wings raised $1,200 for signage and accessibility improvements for Glendening Park during Frostburg’s 2023 Wellness Week. The shop also regularly partners with local physical therapists, chiropractors, podiatrists, and others in the medical field to connect their patients with the latest supportive footwear. “It’s all about giving customers the best products to support their recovery. It’s an amazing feeling to get someone out of pain,” adds Byrnes. 

Marking its first anniversary in March, this woman-owned shop is a testament to empowerment and accessibility. Coinciding with Women's History Month, Byrnes's venture highlights the impactful contributions women entrepreneurs can make within their communities.

Adam Strott, Economic Development Specialist with Allegany County Economic and Community Development, says, “Diversity fuels growth. Runners’ Wings is a great example of how women-owned businesses positively shape the community. In just one year, Laura and her team have helped make Frostburg a more inclusive place and have welcomed many to pursue the hidden treasures of Allegany County as a result.”

Byrnes closes, “It is gratifying to hear how people have changed their lives through fitness and are getting healthy. Runners’ Wings wants to show how welcoming the community can be for all abilities and ages.” 

Visit the Runners’ Wings website to learn more about their offerings. Read our blog for other business stories throughout Allegany County.