This place is amazing!!! The staff here is attentive and extremely knowledgeable! Definitely come here to get your next pair of running shoes! They look at your stance, walk, and run to determine the shoes that will be best for you and what you'll be using them for. They have a treadmill that you are able to use to see how comfortable they are, but also let you take them outside. The staff was also patient and helpful for indecisive people like me! read more

This place is great! I am a new runner.. never liked it before, but I got peer pressured into signing up for a half-marathon and now I'm "training" for it. Came here a few weeks ago and learned that there are all these different types of running shoes depending on the shape of my feet! They watched me run around in different shoes, then I bought the one that felt best. I ran the next morning and it turned out it wans't all that.. it was hurting my feet. So I brought it back, and they found me another one and exchanged it for me. Great service, staff has knowledge about running and they have a huge selection. The new shoes have been life changing! :) read more

Very pleased. As a runner a long long time ago, I have taken up running again but only mild distances. Well, I had the wrong shoes and immediately developed shin splints. The sales person I worked with was an avid runner and knowledgeable about the shoes. She showed me excellent shoes, excellent inserts, and gave me good advice about working through the shin splints. She spent time with me, and answered my questions. Best yet, Pacers support a local dog rescue group! read more

Went to buy a new pair of running shoes and they were amazing. Sales people are incredibly knowledgeable and they have video and a treadmill to look at the way you run/walk to help identify the type of shoe that will be best for you. This is perfect for anyone with any type of foot issues. read more

Good Location, small but seems well stocked with the basics. Over the last year I've been in this location 3 times and have been less than impressed each time. After a visit this afternoon I decided never to come back. The staff seems uninterested and a bit rude. While I was looking around the young guy didn't even get off his stool to ask if I needed assistance. The place had one other customer and not much going on. If I want Walmart level service I'll go elsewhere. Visit their DC location or another store if you're looking for helpful and professional people. read more

A bigger location than what is in Alexandria. I stopped by here the other evening because I had forgotten they had opened a store much closer to me and I need new sneakers. I didn't have time to go through the whole "trial run" to figure out which ones were good for me, I just wanted to see if they had a particular brand. They did! They have a really good selection of sneakers, significantly larger than the Old Town location and they carry all sorts of other running gear like outfits, caps, goo, pedometers, etc). Another plus is that it is directly across the street from the Clarendon metro stop (for those of you coming from elsewhere). read more

Came here specifically to get help picking out the right size shoe. I am not a runner (yet) or used to wearing running shoes so I was really helping for some guidance. I was the only person in the store but had to ask for help. I said the shoes I had on felt a little tight so the young man assisting asked suggested I go up a full size. A month later, I've realized I am wearing a full size too big and I just have wide feet. So I didn't get the guidance I needed and have a pair of shoes that I will never wear because they are too big. Very disappointing. read more

I went in to get professionally fitted for running shoes on Saturday and had an utterly wonderful experience. I was prepared to be skeptical after I got fitted for shoes in California and the saleslady fitted me with the completely wrong pair of shoes that left my feet hurting (and since I bought them in California, I was unable to return them). It was a busy Saturday, but when I walked up to an employee and asked who I could talk to get for for shoes, Adrian immediately called me over, was both funny and incredibly good. She spotted all of my issues, got the right kind of shoes, made sure they fit properly and kept me and my partner in stitches, all while helping 3 other customers. On her birthday! (She's also the owner) I love supporting small businesses, especially when they take the time to actually help you find things suited to your needs. The shoes are going to be pricey, but most good running shoes are. Their system will even remember what kind of shoes you bought (and the size) for future. I can't wait to try my shoes out this afternoon! read more

After falling during a recent run, I knew it was time to buy new running shoes. I love the shoes I have, so I knew exactly what I wanted when I went into Pacers. The salesman, Robbie, assisted me in selecting the exact shoe I wanted (Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8). It's similar to my GTS 5, but with the extra cushion. I like how the store has socks you can use while trying on shoes, in case you walk in without the proper socks. Expect to pay a premium at Pacers, simply because it's a specialty store geared toward runners. I paid $95, but I know I will get a lot of mileage out of the shoes. Plus, all the staff run in races all the time, so they are very knowledgeable on what type of shoes your feet should wear. read more

I was waiting in line to purchase one of their logo shirts. Another customer walked up as the person in front of me finished their transaction. The gal looked at me then turned to the other customer and asked are you ready to check out? She then turned to me and said " I'll help you after this person" WTF. I said I was here first, but I guess it doesn't matter, they don't want my money, so I walked out. read more

So disappointed. They claimed they were open on Columbus day but went to two locations during their posted hours and both were closed. Will never get my business now, I'll go back to Fleet Feet. read more

I love running...did my second organized run last weekend and decided to hit a running store instead of the ususal Dicks or Sports Auth. I found a great running skirt on sale and talked to the salesperson about the importance of the proper running socks. This location was on a detour out of the traffic madness that is the DC THXG week. They were also handing out packets for the THXG 5k. But the Pacers stores are a local resource for all things related to running. I would love to go back and buy some proper running sneakers because they seem to take the time and help you figure out what your individual needs are...I will say they are a little bit pricey compared to the stores mentioned above and they don't have a huge selection of brands - but I guess that's what a specialty store is. read more

This is a runner's and non-runner's dream store. Unlike other shoe stores, the employees here actually know what they're talking about. They offer so many activities for their customers and stock good quality products. The staff are professional and will educate you and help you choose the best product for your feet and activities. I would recommend their stores to anyone. read more

I went into this store yesterday looking for new running shoes. Maybe one of two black people in the store and when I walked in, there was many staff members standing in the front. I was not greeted or helped. So, I looked at shoes alone found some I liked then had to go pull a staff member over for help. She was nice once I pulled her over. She made a comment about one shoe costing more than the other I never asked about price. But as a paying customer with many choices in stores I expect better customer service. No one approached me I had to approach them for assistance. That's unacceptable. I will not be returning to this store. read more

I've only been in once, but the person who helped me find shoes was friendly, upbeat, asked me cool running questions, and helped me pick out the perfect shoe. I like this store because while they have plenty of merchandise, the store doesn't feel cramped. It's also great that they organize weekly group runs! read more

A salesperson recommended the Brooks Ghost running shoe, and I've been buying those ever since. But, I recently bought a shirt on sale but they didn't tell me it was final sale so now I can't return it. It would be nice to know if something is final sale! How is this even a policy in this day and age? read more

I am relatively new to running, so initially, I didn't invest much in running shoes or gear. However, I have reached the point where I needed a new pair of running shoes. Having just moved to Arlington in the last few months, of course I searched Yelp for running stores. Pacers in Clarendon had great reviews, so I decided to at least check them out. The store is located right across the street from the Clarendon Metro Station, so it is very easy to access. Upon entering the store, the sales associate greeted me. I walked around, checking out the selection while she finished ringing up another customer. As soon as she was done, she came straight over and offered to help. I explained that I am still a fairly new runner and needed help selecting a solid pair of running shoes. She asked if I had any preferences for brands or particular shoes, sized me, had me walk to determine my stride pattern, and then brought out several options. As I tried on the first pair, she offered to let me run on the treadmill or go out on the sidewalk to test them out (I opted to just walk around the store a bit). She was patient and very helpful. As I believe others have noted, she didn't try to sell me a particular shoe or brand. She recommended different shoes for me based on my stride and whatnot, but the selection process was entirely my decision. A different associate rung up my selections (I picked up a pair of shoes and a few odds and ends). She, too, was extremely nice. I must admit, the store is a bit pricey, but I have always believed you get what you pay for. The service helps makes the price more bearable. I will definitely be back to Pacers in Clarendon for all my running gear. read more

Vast body of knowledge in running shoes/form/endurance training/race training- great that they actually orgnize group runs each Tuesday and Thursday at 7PM (themed!). Give it a try! They're also very good with helping your wallet by giving you ideas for cost saving. read more

Came here after dinner on Monday to check out some dedicated running shoes since I started running. The salesman was very friendly (I think it was Brian) and he watched me walk and jog up and down the isle to determine what kind of stride I had and brought out three pairs for me to try, he also answered all my questions, very helpful! read more

Helpful, fun staff, cute store, not very big. Good that they test you and figure out what shoes will fit you best for your running style. They're pretty active in the running community (no pun intended) I suspect there are plenty of shoes they sell that you could get cheaper online, but if you try em and they test well sometimes it's good to just pay and go. read more

First off, let me precede by saying prior to today, I've had many positive experiences at this store, however, I will be shopping elsewhere going forward. This place does not honor loyal customers. I've spent who knows how many hundreds of dollars at this Pacers location this year for my marathon training, and then thought it'd be a good idea to register for their Clarendon Day 5k run; I pre-registered and paid weeks in advance, however when I showed up race day to pick up my packet, they couldn't find me in the system - even though I showed them my confirmation page. (Isn't that the point of a confirmation page!?) Anyway, Gail (Pacer's event mgr) re-registered me. After the race, I found out the chip in my bib wasn't working, and I did not have my race time recorded. STILL, Gail would NOT refund me my money when I requested. Instead, she advised that I still benefitted from the "shirt and socializing" aspects of the race. Are you kidding me? What a joke. Lost all respect for that company if they put clowns like this in charge of customer relations. I'm spreading the word about this Arlington Pacers location. read more

Great Customer Service. These guys know their stuff!!!! They find the right product for you and make sure that you are happy with your purchase. read more

I love love love love Pacers. Their service is impeccable, and they are so involved in the DC running community, I am happy to support them. I know that I could get my running shoes for cheaper using an online discount site or something, but the slight extra cost is worth the service. They sponsor TONS of free running groups (out of this store and the other area stores) where they map out routes and help you train for long distance races. Again...free! It's really amazing that they do that, so like I said, I am happy to give them my business. I usually just buy my shoes here, but I have also bought supplements, a water belt, and a couple pieces of apparel. All good quality. read more

If you love running, you will love Pacers. They have it all. They location in Clarendon is great. It's easy to park at or across from metro. If you are a new runner, they will get you set up with the shoes that fit you and if you're a more experienced runner they will have your brand in stock or get it for you. Once you have your shoes, don't forget your socks. Running socks are probably the 2nd most important piece of gear you will wear and Pacers has such a great variety. You can get all the gear and nutrition you want there. I love their gel and nutrition section, they have every flavor and type imaginable. I get the Gu gels and Honey Stinger blocks. But the races are the best, they're easy to get to and fun to race. Pacers builds an awesome community of runners through all they do wtih races, group runs and give so much to local charities to support our community. They announced today that because of corona virus they will make special deliveries to your house to get you the shoes and stuff you need. So place an order today so you can keep your training going during these tough times. Pacers will definitely take care of you. read more

I buy my running shoes from Pacers. They are always helpful when I'm looking for the right shoe, and I appreciate their support for the local running community (group runs, educational events, sponsorship of the Pacers/NB Georgetown Running Club, etc). They also organize the best 5k and 10k races in the area. read more

I went on a Friday afternoon after work to pick up a new pair of running shoes. The store was very busy but the staff remained extremely helpful and friendly. They also took the time to tell me about local running events including the fun runs the store organizes and to help me pick out the right shoes for the way I run. I ended up with a great pair of shoes that were a few dollars more than the price on-line but the service and convenience were well worth the extra $5 bucks. Give this place a try. I read more

Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Reasonable prices and all the running supplies that you could want.

Came in to buy an arm band for working out. Employees are stuck up and are quick to judge you based on whether or not they think you can afford their gear. Most likely will not be returning. read more

I walked into this store was not greeted at all. As i searched for my sizes no one offered help or assistance. I received a half smile after being in the store for ten min searching for my sizes by an employee asking if i was finding everything okay. I did not appreciate that experience as I did not feel welcomed or like the staff was there to help. read more

I came into this store looking to get into running. I've never been a runner, so I thought to myself why not go to a running specialty store to get shoes and educate myself on how much I should be running, differences between shoes, etc. When I walked in I told the guy who was working that I knew nothing about running and wanted to get shoes. He said to me, "Well what shoes do you want?" And I told him I didnt know because I was just getting into running. His reply was, "Well let me know when you know what shoe you want" Ummm what?!?!!? I don't know what shoe I want because I'm not a runner! Is Pacers only for professional runner who knows exactly what they want? I couldn't believe the attitude I was getting from this guy, like if he was too good to help me out. Sure you probably won't get much help picking out shoes at Sports Authority, but at least you won't have to put up with attitude like that! read more

Attentive, friendly, knowledgeable service has been consistent with the Arlington Pacers store. I recently completed my first marathon and they put me in the PERFECT shoe for the race. They were patient with finding me a shoe that really fits my needs and while they are pricier than other chain athletic stores, the one-on-one service makes it worth it. They fit me in Asics Nimbus 18 and they are so comfortable and I strike in the exact middle of my foot, however the rubber was too soft and they wore down within 100 miles! (To no fault of Pacers, but of Asics) Pacers knew this was a faulty shoes and exchanged them for me, with no hassle or cost. Amazing! Have been, and will continue to be a regular customer. read more

Allison helped me today buy a new pair of running shoes. She was knowledgeable, patient, helpful in answering my questions, and gave no pressure. I recommend Pacers to runners of all ages at different levels. read more

I went to this particular running store based on Yelp reviews, and I'm so glad I did! I have to start by saying I'm not a seasoned runner, and I'm not built like a typical runner (trying to lose a few pounds, hence the running), but I never felt uncomfortable and was treated with respect (which I only mention because of the comments of a previous reviewer). The sales associate that helped me listened intently to my needs and concerns, she closely evaluated my stride, foot structure, and pronation, and she provided me with a great selection of shoes based on what she found. She took her time, answered all my questions, and was upfront about the price differences in the shoes (in case that was one of my concerns). On top of all that, they offer a military discount, which I greatly appreciated. I will definitely be a returning customer and plan on recommending this store to friends! read more

the staff was professional, knowledgeable and got me into my new running shoes quickly (I went during lunch). They have a great selection considering I have a larger size shoe! read more

I came to Pacers since I've been having really bad ankle and knee pain when I run more than 3 miles. I wish I knew the name of the guy who helped me. (All I know is that he has lime green running shoes). He immediately helped me as soon as I walked into the door. He set me up on the tread mill and immediately pointed out that I over pronate when I run and showed me through slow motion their awesome treadmill camera. He set me up with a great pair of running shoes and had me run on the treadmill again so I can see through the camera the instant fix the stabilizing running shoes did for me. I went straight to the gym and for the first time in a long time didn't have ANY pain while running. The prices of the shoes are so worth it, especially if you run often. read more

I am a runner. I went to Pacers a few times to be outfitted for shoes. A couple employees were very helpful in helping me select the proper shoes for my feet. They have a 2 week return policy. A couple times the shoes didn't work out and I had to return them. I wore them on the treadmill. They say to test it out this way in order to ensure that I qualify for a return. I brought them back and explained the situation. The young man (I think he may have been the manager? Assistant manager?) was extremely unfriendly. He proceeded with the return. However he did not look at me, he did not talk to me, he did not acknowledge me. He had treated me with the same utter disregard another time. I no longer take my business to Pacers. I now go elsewhere - where I don't have to be treated with disdain over a return. I know my feet well enough to know what kind of shoe I need and I have found more success at an online merchant. I ran my two marathons with shoes from another retailer - NOT Pacers. It is important to have the proper running shoes. This is why they have a 2 week return policy so you can try them out (inside- on a treadmill) to see if they work. Why should I have to be treated so poorly because the shoes didn't work out? I bought a couple pairs of running shoes from Pacers and kept them. But the horrible customer service from this sub par person sent me "running" elsewhere. ** So I had to edit my review as it was filtered apparently. I am not trying to promote other businesses nor do I work at a competitor store. I took out the companies names.** read more

When you need to buy running shoes as part of a serious (or semi-serious) running regimen, a store like Pacers is the place to go. The whole point of a place like Pacers is the expertise of the staff to expertly assess your running stride and recommend the appropriate running shoe. The guy that helped me seemed nice enough, but clearly wasn't the expert I hoped he would be. (Other staff members were immediately assessing the strides of other customers and making expert recommendations.) In the end, I simply replaced my current pair with the exact same, but updated, model that I already owned but had worn out. I asked the guy if there were any alternatives that I may like better, and he brought out a couple choices, but they proved not to work out for me. I was satisfied with the performance of my old shoes, so I guess buying an updated pair of the same model was the right choice - if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I also bought some socks and an ankle brace. Their inventory is strictly focused on running, so don't expect cross-trainers or apparel that isn't specifically intended for running. Prices are ok and they usually have discounts if you belong to Gold's Gym or have registered to run one of the races in the area. They also are good about sponsoring local running events, coordinating running groups and other community involvement. Overall, I'd recommend Pacers - but if you need a stride assessment and shoe recommendation, look for assistance from a manager or other full-time staff person. read more

Pacers in Arlington was great. I am a long time runner but am just getting into distance running (3 half marathons under my belt and a marathon looming on the horizon). Being new to distance running and racing I have encountered many runners with a "holier than thou" attitude, unfortunately. So when I went to pacers a few weeks ago to try out some gels I was super surprised with the respect I was given as a runner! I told the guy "I have only done a few half marathons" and he replied "only?! thats more than most people!". Then proceeded to give me excellent advice on gels, tips on compression socks, and other things. I was very happy with the level of customer service, and I loved that I was treated with respect as a runner even though I am new to the game. The staff at the Arlington Pacers is great and I love that they focus on the customer and their specific needs and concerns. Will definitely be back. read more

great place to get running shoes. staff is knowledgeable. I will definitley go back to buy my next set.

I asked Pacers to order a pair of shoes for me back in mid-April, and I was told that they would be in the store by the first of May. I called around mid-May, and the employee I spoke to told me they were on backorder and should be in sometime that month. By the end of May I called again with a response of "I don't know but they should be here soon." I just happened to find the exact same pair of shoes online, so I ordered them and had them in hand in less than 48 hours, which makes me question the whole "backorder" theory. Pacers has yet to call and tell me that my shoes are in. It's now August. The employees are friendly enough in person and they do seem knowledgeable about shoes and gear, but this is rather ridiculous. I won't be attempting to order anything through Pacers ever again. read more