Recently came in with a little less than an hour to closing time to look at the shoe selection (which was very vast), but also to get a second opinion on what kind of shoes would be most beneficial for me specifically as a newcomer to the hobby. David was helping me out with sizing, and finding my arch (to my own surprise, nonexistent) and shoes to help support it. He was friendly, knowledgeable, & helpful--all around had a great conversation with him regarding shoes and running. Was recommended the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and really liked them, but originally had come in to try on the Nike Vomero Plus to see how they felt after doing some research online. Didn't leave with either shoe, but left with a lot of knowledge on what to look for in running shoes that will fit my needs. Highly recommend checking out this spot if you're new to running and need some advice. Great staff & service with a wide selection of shoes. read more

I've been coming to this location for years. This location is well maintained & stays well stocked with the most current essentials & nice to have items that hit the market. I took a picture of the latest capsule paying homage to our beloved Cherry Blossoms. Running apparel, running shades, sneakers, insoles, lights, and energy gels...This place has it all! The knowledgeable team will ask you questions to get an understanding of your goals, then proceed with a shoe fitting (measure the length and width of your foot), then take the extra step of measuring your arch with the CUREX Foot disc. Come here and jumpstart your fitness journey! read more

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Last month, my husband got a price match and military discount here (25% off from Brooks' website) with no issue. This month, I asked for the same and was met with immediate attitude: comments about "only looking at snacks," and, as I was leaving, a sarcastic "Hope you find your discount!" Even the gait assessment felt rushed, capped with an "I guess if you want I can measure your arch." I shouldn't have to persuade someone to do their job. I'll skip the attitude and order directly from Brooks. read more

Great running store. I like coming in and having my gait analyzed when buying shoes. A ding on the stars because it seems like they only have non-cute shoes available in my size. I see these super cute shoes on the wall and then it's my size and it's essentially grey or white. Oh well. They do a shoe recycling program which is nice. When I buy my new sneakers, I drop my old ones in the box. Don't forget to ask about their military discount! read more

I went to Pacers to get fitted for walking shoes. Pacers carries sone of the well known brand for running and walking shoes. The sales person that I was working with was very knowledgeable about running shoes and explained exactly what I was needed without pressuring me to buy a pair of shoes. Customer service is on point here. read more

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I tagged along with my sister to Pacers Running to look for some replacement running shoes. We were greeted promptly and were asked if there was anything specific we were looking for - since my sister knew the exact model and size, the friendly staff member was able to get the shoe as well as some alternatives. There was a fitting and the testing of the shoes (walking, running); all questions were answered and the staff member was informative. He was also able to let us know how many of the shoes were left and if there were any others in stock of the alternatives. The place was neatly organized, and I was digging some of the hoodies and long-sleeved shirts they had available. It was overall a pleasant experience. Limited street parking in the area. +friendly and helpful staff +limited street parking available read more

This is an amazing running shoes store! special thanks to Farrin and Carnon for helping me find my perfect shoes patiently (after trying more than 10 pairs... lol). Don't have any set idea of what kind/size of shoes you want/need. Let them help you! my feet have been measured 6.5 for all my adult life... I often suffered some pains wearing different brands of size 6.5 shoes. Finally with their expert help -- observing my running grate and asking me to run on their machine, we realized that i need size 7.5 shoes, despite my feet are still measured 6.5. Now i run pain free and am planning/training to run my first half marathon in Jun 2026 (Bank of American 13.1 Chicago half marathon). So thankful for them and this great store! read more

Every thing about this place is awesome. They measured the size of my son's feet, evaluated his arches and his gait. Asked him questions about how he planned use his shoes and then sales man picked out a few different selections for my son to try. Once he found the perfect shoe, he made a color selection that wasn't available at the store, so they ordered it and will ship it straight to his boarding school. 10/10 would highly recommend. read more

Pacers Running - Great service at this store! - Shoe Stores Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

If you need new shoes for running or walking, this is the place. I've been running for 12 years and been to numerous running stores, Pacer's does it right. The entire experience was fantastic from start to finish and they helped me find the perfect fit! read more

In the era of online shopping, this place is still relevant. Been buying shoes here for at least 6 years. Great options for various types of runners. Avid runners come here for the great deals on running shoes and compression socks. Military discounts are offered unless it's already a discounted offer. Service was always deliberate and thoughtful. read more

I went to Pacers for the first time last Friday. I am new to running and was told that Pacers is the place to go to get some proper running shoes. The experience was better than I even expected and was easily one of the best experiences I have ever had at a store. Griffin was the absolute best! He helped both my wife and I pick out our first pair of running shoes. He was very knowledgeable, patient, and went above and beyond to make sure my wife and I had the right running shoes based on our individual feet. We both maybe tried on a combined 10 pairs of shoes to find the right ones for us both individually and when we finally found the ones we wanted, Griffin took the time to make sure we got the exact colors we wanted too. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for great running shoes and an amazing overall customer experience! read more

I just got my new running shoes online, I order by mistake the wrong model but Chris did an awesome job and helped me solve it fast. I would definitely recommend buying from this store. They have a lot of models. read more

I just bought a pair of Hoka and running socks here. They offer a military discount and running socks have promotion as well. John provided a good explanation of selection and assisted with fitting. Definitely will come back for more! read more

Pacers Running - Shoe Stores Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

First things first - I am not exactly a runner, but usually go to OTF about 3-4 times a week. OTF usually includes about 10-15 minutes of running on a treadmill during class, mixed with some strength training. So I decided to go see if getting a good pair of shoes would be helpful for these HIIT style classes. I made an appointment online before coming, since that is what they request due to COVID. Once I arrived I was greeted by a salesperson who took me to our designated area to begin the shoe experience. I first did some walking barefoot so she could get an idea of my feet and then she started bringing me the best options based on what she saw. As I tried on different shoes I was able to walk and jog around the store, and she would give me feedback on which shoes offered the most support. She even recorded me running so she could explain why certain shoes were better for my feet. I really liked getting the feedback and it made picking the right shoes for me a very easy and pleasant experience. There was also a large selection of shoes so that I could really sample a good variety of shoes. Once I selected my shoes checkout was a breeze. Luckily mine were at a decent price and the return policy allows you to wear the shoes for 30 days to ensure you made the right decision. I am very pleased with my purchase and will likely return in the next 6-8 months to get another pair. Who knew you were supposed to replace running shoes more than once every 4 years, ha! read more

Great selection. Reasonable prices. Knowledgeable and helpful staff. I have bought two pairs of running shoes here and will return when it's time to replace them. I highly recommend this Pacers store! read more

Came in on Monday to return a pair of Hokas I had purchased on Friday. The manager (Emilio) immediately acted suspicious of me and, despite my showing him a receipt showing that I'd bought the shoes in store a few days before, insisted that they didn't carry that model of shoe and it was impossible that I'd bought them there. Okay?? Then he claimed that the salesperson had rung up a different pair of shoes when I'd bought them (how is this my fault?) and since the receipt didn't match the shoes, he couldn't process the return. At this point, I feel like I'm being gaslit and I pointed out that I had no idea what shoes the salesperson had rung up, but these were the shoes I'd purchased. Then he claimed the shoes were discounted and final sale, which was news to me! It seemed like he was casting around for any excuse not to let me return the brand new shoes I'd bought at the store. I pointed out that I didn't know they were on sale/final sale, and I wasn't aware that the salesperson had entered the wrong shoes when checking me out, but no dice. I've been a Pacers customer for years but won't be coming back. This was pretty much the opposite of my experience returning shoes to Comfort One. It was also unsettling because I am not used to being treated with such overt suspicion by a salesperson?? The whole thing left such a bad taste in my mouth and was so bizarre. read more

Fun fact...This pacers store was the store I first went to when I started running 10+ years ago when I wanted a shoe fitting. I just have to give Pacers an extra shout out because of their birthday rewards. So generous. Makes me want to come in and spend money on top of the birthday coupon. This most recent time though I really didn't need anything, so I shopped their "accessories" They have some accessories for my R8 recovery roller. I'm totally grateful to Pacers! read more

Ordered 2 shoes on line. One pair was delivered to the wrong address and sat on steps for 2 days. Pacers told me they were showing that the order shipped to the wrong address was still processing. They were clueless. First and last order. Will stick with Zappos read more

If you have any questions about which shoe is best for you, set aside like 20 minutes and Scott will get you set up! Took the time to explain different shoe specifications, tried on a variety, and answered all the questions I had. The store didn't have the color I wanted so he ordered it online for me and two days later I have em! Overall great place, great staff, and great selection 10/10 read more

Super-friendly and very helpful. I just wanted comfortable shoes to walk around in. They listened and made some recommendations that were directly on point (meaning they took their time, absorbed what I said, and had the knowledge to match up what they had in stock with what I was looking for). Two perfect pairs of shoes that I have happily and comfortably worn since. They'll treat you right and get you what you want. You don't have to be a runner or a certain kind of athlete to be treated with kindness and respect here. read more

Great service and knowledgeable staff. Very helpful with a great selection of shoes, shorts and other running apparel.

This place reminds me of the Big Peach here in Atlanta. Its got the same concept. I came in here with my sister to get some shoes they told her would be in before the end of the month...but they weren't. The good thing is, she was able to order two pair and get them shipped to her. The lady waiting on us was really funny and very helpful. We talked about running and I contemplated buying new shoes but thought to wait until the day after Thanksgiving for Black Friday sales. They had a lot of cool things in there to help with running or even getting started. I always get fascinated when people are getting their feet assessed. I was really there being nosey. Lol. Anyway, I would definitely visit again as I feel that this place is a staple for runners. read more

Pacers Running - Sock panel...looking at the Balega socks...heard great things about them! - Shoe Stores Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I agree with Ashley's comment below. I think the store has a good variety of options, but if you are looking for anything specific tailored to a foot issue and have high arches for example, the store employees are useless. Go to REI in McLean instead, they will ask questions about any past or current injuries to get you back and moving. read more

Love love love Pacers. I run a lot and will not purchase runners anywhere else. Pacers is a specialty shop for running equipment. All the sales personnel are trained to know what the latest shoes are, the features of each shoe and can compare and contrast different brands. They also run so they can give you first hand experience with different brands as well. Pacers also has fun running groups that are free to join. I was blown away the first time I was fitted for shoes. I was put on the treadmill and my step was analyzed for the best fit for shoes. They didn't just ask what size I wore, they wanted to make sure it was the best shoe for me. The last visit I bought my 4th pair. I also introduced my brother to the store as a friend did the same for me. The guy was also able to look up my purchases from a few years ago as I couldn't remember the brand I was looking for. Spending money at Pacers is worth every penny. They educate you on your purchase instead of feeling like you're just spend a few hundred dollars on just kicks. read more

I had an ok experience. The women helping me didn't seem very knowledgeable about about shoes or my concerns with my feet in regards to running. I've been a runner for a while and I wanted someone really knowledgeable about foot striking, issues with high arches, what shoes had the best arch support, etc. she was not good in telling me about each shoe, at all, I had to ask numerous questions about each shoe. And I'm really grateful the gentleman who was also selling shoes heard my concerns and he got me the pair I ended up buying. Also while I was trying on the shoes, the woman just walked off and started working at the counter.... questions about my shoes were literally, "how do they fit?" Nothing else, that pertained to my concerns about picking out shoes. If it weren't for that other gentleman I probably wouldn't recommend this place to someone else, or come back. Good place, just get someone who is knowledgeable about running shoes, and genuinely cares. read more

Very knowledgeable staff, I absolutely love my new running shoes. Very happy with my purchase. Happy to recommend Pacers; Will be back when I need a new pair. read more

Very helpful staff and great shoes. They have a good return policy as well. They also have a military discount.

By far, the Best running shoe store in town. Excellent and cordial service. All staff, and Andrea in particular, are awesome and very knowledgeable. Great selection of shoes and they have a great return policy to ensure one gets the perfect shoe match. #Buy Local and #Happy running! David L. read more

I frequent many Pacers Running stores. This one isn't my favorite. And this visit didn't change my mind. I wish it would have though. But, no. Just not the greatest service. Not very knowledgeable. I was at the Pacers Clarendon store first and was informed the Asics shoe I run in is releasing a new shoe in March 2016. Oh, and they don't have my shoe in stock, but Pacers Old Town does. So, a quick ride to Pacers OT and they have my shoe. I'm not feeling the color. But, one should not get caught up in the aesthetics of a running shoe. We discuss the price. S/N: My running buddy sends a text, at the time I'm asking about the price, and says Sports Authority has them for $109. Pacers has them for $150. *record scratch* Pacers has two pair in stock. The customer service lady says the next shoe will be released in June. I stated the lady in Clarendon says March. Old Town rep is quick to dismiss it, then walks over to the computer to double check. I discuss the $109 price at SA and she just walks away. I was ready to buy the shoe. I'm never ready to buy the shoe when dismissed by rude customer service. So, I grab my keys. Unfortunate for me. read more

I love Pacers for their stuff, their very friendly staff and good prices! This place is always busy with the staff running around helping someone. But they help you right away if you flag them and take good care of you! They are a bit more expensive than big chains but they do have good shoes and they find you the perfect pair - a service that is non-existent in other chains! read more

As the name suggests, this store is dedicated to one sport and one sport alone, running. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they carry all kinds of running gear. On your first visit, they will have you run on a treadmill, assess your stride and gait, and show products best suited to your style. I really like how active they are in the running community. The store hosts runs most days, at different times, so both morning and evening runners can participate. And there's always a sign up advertising a run that the company is sponsoring or otherwise involved with. Yes, the shoes here are more expensive than at other stores or online. But you're not just paying for the shoes, you're paying for the concierge-style service that comes with each purchase and access to a larger community of runners that the store provides free of charge. In the end, it's a bargain. Pacers has been my first and only stop for running shoes over the past year, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. read more

I've been here a couple times at the recommendation of a friend. The first time I went they truthfully did not set me up well with my shoes. 2nd time around we are on point and I am very happy and have the perfect fit for my shoes. Also got the scoop on their great events in the area. read more

Customer service wasn't great. My gf and I went there and she asked about what shoes they would recommend for hybrid workouts. The employee recommended a pair of shoes then went back to the cash register like we weren't there anymore. Disappointing. read more

Had to get new shoes for daughter joining Cross Country. She wanted to get inserts to help with running pains she felt last year on track. Went in for the fitting, following the COVID rules - made us feel safe. Jeremy took great care with us - came up with 3 shoes of different makes - and my daughter found one that was the best for her - and tried the different inserts, and found the best for her. Jeremy had also been a high school runner, and was very helpful. Next day - she had a really good run - no pain, fast time, big smile. Now, I'm the hero for bringing her to Pacers - Another big smile here. Thank you Pacers! read more

I've now bought several pairs of shoes here, and all have been great...until the last pair, which I tried in the store where they felt good but which didn't work out during my, er, workout. They took them back with no issues per their stated policy, which is a huge deal for me since I'd worn the $160 shoes I was returning. Bought another pair that's working out great and will keep buying from them in the future! read more

Pacers is a store for runners, staffed by runners. Although you may not get the kind of discounted prices you'll find from online/big boxes (but do note that they have a loyalty program which effectively gives you 10% off), I would pick Pacers any day for its excellent customer service and convenience. When I visited they had me hop on a treadmill to see how I ran, then recommended several shoes to try on based off of that. I was very satisfied with the shoes I got, but if I wasn't, then they have a very generous return policy - you have a week or two to decide whether or not you like what you bought. If you need help finding a shoe, then look no further. The sales people here know their stuff and are able to give excellent recommendations - and explain them! read more

Needed a new pair of running shoes and only 7 weeks from my first marathon and Jim couldn't have been more helpful. Tried on and ran in five different pairs before finding the right fit - first run was awesome. Can't thank them and Jim enough read more

I've run past Pacers countless times on my frequent runs through Old Town. All of those runs took its toll on my running shoes, so it was time to replace them. The girlfriend had gotten a couple of pairs of shoes from the Old Town store and came away pleased with their knowledge, selection, and service. Far be it from me to not follow my girlfriend's recommendation, so I went to Pacers to look for some new shoes. Pacers is a spacious store that relatively recently expanded to now occupy two storefronts along King Street. As Pacers specializes in running, the store has everything runners of all skill levels need to pound the pavement. I got a good vibe from the place based on the appearance of the sales staff. The sales staff was lean and fit, possessing the build of avid runners. I mean, who wants to buy running shoes from someone who's fat and out of shape. Frankly, I felt confident they knew the product they were selling very well. Kate, the sales associate who served me, was exceedingly patient with me, taking the time to pull out at least five different pairs for me to try on and "test drive" to determine the one that would best fit my needs. After much deliberating, I picked out a pair. Pacers prices may be a bit higher than what you'd find at Dick's Sporting Goods or the like, but Pacers offered the personal, knowledgeable service that I was looking for in helping me to make the important decision on the best shoes for me. read more

Much appreciation for a full-service run store. Had the good fortune to find Pacers Alexandria after coming across their podcast. When in town for business, always make time to join an evening run on Tuesday or Thursday, or an ass-kicking crosstraining run on Monday. Pacers social runners are friendly, and stratify well into different pace groups and training goals. Of course, the store has all necessary run accoutrements starting from shoes and including lights, gels, and a reasonable clearance rack. read more

We stopped on a busy holiday Monday with our teen-aged son. I was skeptical as I know the prices are premium here. Our part-time new employee delivered fabulous service, including letting us know about an available 15% discount for high school Athletes. She was able to find several pairs of size 12.5 and 13 for our son to try out on the treadmill and even allowed him to run a little outside in his favorite pair. This employee was new, but not new to Pacers or running as she runs marathons and has run with store organized groups before. I highly recommend Pacers Old Town, which has a larger store and seemingly more stock than the Logan Circle location. I would ask about possible discounts, I see in other reviews that there may be a frequent buyers reward. read more