Written by: Grace Ametin-Gay, Dylan Burnette, Josie Hart, Ariana Morrad, and Charli Warren
Every custom Wears Woody piece tells a story. For Michael Chase, the gear is more than clothing; it honors resilience, loyalty, and the people who inspire him. Each item reflects his values and mission, turning meaningful moments into wearable, powerful reminders of purpose and impact.
About Michael Chase
| Michael Chase’s life was forever changed in 2013 when he was at the Boston Marathon when the second bomb exploded nearby. He sprang into action to help those around him, an experience that profoundly shaped his mission and purpose. Since that day, Michael has devoted himself to inspiring others to face adversity with courage and resilience. He believes true strength grows through connection, support, and being truly seen. Whether speaking to educators, law enforcement, or leadership teams, he encourages people to lead with intention and create supportive environments. |  |
Connecting with Wears Woody
Michael first discovered Wears Woody at his daughter’s field hockey recruiting event in Delaware, a habitual stop on the Wears Woody Tour, which nationwide to sports and diabetes events, showcasing Wears Woody’s apparel in engaging, community-driven settings. That weekend, Michael purchased two sweatshirts after being impressed by the quality, comfort, and style. Later, a Father’s Day gift from his daughter added a third, cementing Wears Woody as his go-to brand. When he considered creating custom gear for his company, Wears Woody was the natural choice with shared values and a commitment to meaningful impact, which made the collaboration authentic and lasting.
Creating the Custom Gear
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The process of creating Michael’s custom gear was hands-on, collaborative, and deeply personal. Wears Woody approached the project with care, working to bring Michael’s story to life through every design choice. They began by discussing the message each piece should convey, then explored colors, fabrics, and materials that aligned with his journey, values, and impact. Before moving into production, designers sketched, refined, and finalized prototypes. What made the process especially meaningful was its personal nature. |
Every decision, from color to custom patch placement, carried significance, infusing Michael’s messages into tangible, impactful apparel. Michael also valued the connection he formed with Mike Brennan, Wears Woody’s Chief Revenue Officer. Both former educators connected immediately, turning the collaboration into a rewarding experience and a lasting friendship.
What Makes the Gear Special
Michael gifts Wears Woody apparel to conference organizers, business leaders, and school administrators across the country, using it as a way to honor and connect with others. Recipients value the gear not only for its quality, but for the meaning it carries. Every detail is thoughtfully chosen. The patch, for example, is an artist’s rendering of the shoes Michael wore at the Boston Marathon finish line when the bombs went off. The design naturally sparks conversation, making it a powerful way to share the message of presence, purpose, and kindness. Each piece of custom apparel transforms Michael’s story into a shared experience, inviting connection, reflection, and inspiration.
Why the Collaboration Matters
This collaboration is deeply personal for Michael because it reflects everything he values. Wears Woody focuses on people and meaningful impact, not just merchandise, which aligns perfectly with his mission. After surviving the Boston Marathon bombing and transitioning from special education into policing and speaking, Michael has dedicated himself to inspiring and uplifting others. The project embodies his values as a teacher, coach, and police officer, highlighting his commitment to service, second chances, and helping young people feel seen and supported. The custom gear brings these principles to life, turning purpose, presence, and kindness into tangible apparel. The Wears Woody team understood his story and worked to amplify it, making the collaboration both personally and professionally meaningful.
Discover more about Michael’s mission and purpose at Michael Chase Speaks.
Looking Ahead
Michael and Wears Woody are expanding their collaboration to support meaningful causes, including his speaking engagements, school safety initiatives, and community events. A recent project featured his friend Brian Scott running the 2026 Boston Marathon wearing Michael’s survivor bib to honor his father and TEAM14. Wears Woody created custom gear to highlight the run, allowing students, educators, and families to wear apparel that connects them to the story and purpose.
Learn more about creating your own special custom gear here: Wears Woody Made in USA Custom Product Program.