Mile 22 Bags | 1001 E. Broadway #2 PMB 326 | Missoula, MT 59802-4914 | info@mile22bags.com
Mile 22 Bags Mission Statement
At Mile 22…we are dedicated
to supporting people in achieving
their dreams and celebrating their successes.
At Mile 22…we are committed
to sustainable business practices, using quality materials,
supporting community and taking action for social benefit.
At Mile 22…we are inspired
by personal achievement and creativity
and having fun in the process.
Our Story
Mile 22 Bags’ beginnings came from one of our founder’s proud life accomplishments—completing the Boston Marathon. Her name is Stef and in addition to being a proud finisher she is loaded with creativity. Taking her Boston Marathon race day memorabilia, she fashioned a usable and stylish bag to carry that meaningful achievement with her wherever she went. Striking as it was, more than a few people noticed her unique bag. It occurred to Stef that others might like to celebrate their race achievements too. In December 2008, Mile 22 Bags was launched at the Las Vegas Marathon. Since that first marathon, Mile 22 Bags has evolved and grown to include new products such as backpacks, messenger bags and duffels. You create your story, and we’ll create your bag.
Why Mile 22?
In a marathon, Mile 22 is known as a point of transformation. It can be the most challenging part of the race– a time when one may feel vanquished and succumb to the stress of the race. This can also be a moment when a runner taps into a part of themselves that gives them the power and strength to push through the emotional and physical challenge and finish the race. Like any circumstance in life that requires this kind of effort and where one may question their ability to succeed, there is a positive turning point. This understanding of personal power can push anyone beyond that which they thought they were capable. This is true transformation—in running and in life.
Who We Are
Athena Pallis, Co-owner
I love to be a part of an experience when a person is aligned with their life’s goals. I believe this happens through envisioning a reality and future for themselves and then going out and living it. Physical health is an important component of a healthy and fulfilled life…so is joy. Mile 22 Bags reminds me each day to find joy through life’s accomplishments. Seeing the bags and what they represent speaks to the parts of me that believe these things to be true. Knowing that every time someone looks at their bag they are reminded of their own capabilities and accomplishments is exciting and inspirational.
Jen Smith, Co-owner
Although a Montana Native, I have spent most of my adult life traveling the world and exploring new places. As a consultant, my career has been dedicated to helping people and organizations identify and achieve their goals. Always one to seek out and identify the latest fashion trends, I see Mile 22 Bags as a fashionable way to celebrate setting and achieving life’s goals. Running helps me feel strong and creates a space for me to set my own goals and to continue to accomplish them as I go through life.
Stef Sample, Founder
I love to spend my free time running, training for tri’s, traveling and in the company of my favorite person, Joe. Living in Missoula, Montana with all it has to offer is a blessing. It is my backyard and playground and the people here make it easy to see why I could never call anywhere but Montana home. My wish is that everyone takes the opportunity to spend time in Montana during their lifetime.