I used to be a top customer for this Running Center. I was very loyal to them. I got all my shoes there and other running products and I run about 3,500 miles a year so you do the math. Recently, they got rid of the manager there who was the glue that held everything together and replaced her with some "Instagram famous" rando. They did so so abruptly and for no reason even though she was the nicest person I could have asked to have working them. She made me feel like family there. So for making an irrational decision I feel like there should be some consequences, because bad things shouldn't happen to good people. I am therefore officially choosing to boycott Running Center. read more

I just went in to get fitted and had an amazing experience. I was helped by Jasmyn and she was very knowledgeable and patient with me! She was very attentive even though she was simultaneously helping someone else she made me feel important and I could tell the other people felt the same! Also she made me feel extremely comfortable! If you ever need shoes this is the place to go!!!!! Ask to get fitted you will not regret your decision! Thank you Jasmyn! read more

This place was awesome. I went here with my boyfriend as he didnt really understand the importance of running shoes. The shop assistant was so knowledgeable. We came about an hour before the shop closed and I'm sure the last thing he wanted to deal with was my boyfriend (he is extremely picky!) . We tried on about 10 different pairs of shoes, did gait analysis and chatted with the shop assistant until the store closed. This place is awesome and gave us such a goo insight into what he was looking for. What a great place! Also kudos for 10% military discount! read more

The Running Center is not only a great store but the owners love to support our community. They donated generously to our Kelly Elementary Jog-A-Thon which raises money to pay for PE, Art, Music & Science. The Owners even came to the event to cheer our students on. Thank you! Thank you! read more

Came here looking for an update to my running shoes. They were getting old and I'm getting shin splints... or I'm getting old? Either way, the experience here was great. Haven't been to too many running shoe stores in my life and this one was nice since they were able to look at my gait and recommend shoes based on it. The shoes were very comparable to what was online, as far as price goes. I think I would have saved a whoppin $5 online... but I do like to support local businesses and $5 isn't much when I got such a good experience here. I was also recommended some compression sleeves and I can absolutely feel the difference. Not sure if it's solely the sleeves or my shoes but it's made a world of a difference. Overall, this place is really nice and I will continue to come back here when I need to get some new shoes! read more

Amazing customer service. I purchased two pairs of running shoes to train for an upcoming marathon. After trying the first pair, I found that they did not work well for me. I was able to return those shoes for store credit and choose another pair. Nina, Stephane and Ben spent a lot of time helping me make the right decision and I feel prepared to train for this first marathon. I've completed three half marathons and Running Center has become an integral part of my training as i take my goals to the next level. Excellent selection of shoes, clothing and equipment, but the best part of Running Center is the people. It's small, personalized and professional. I highly recommend this business! read more

Love this place. They take the time and actually for you for your running shoes. I hope they reopen soon. I need a new pair of shoes!!

If you are need of a new pair of running or walking shoes, the Running Center is the only stop you should make. The employees at the store go out of their way to make sure the shoe fits. They take the time to analyze your gait on every shoe they bring out. It does not matter how long it takes and how many shoes they have to bring out, they make certain that the shoe I purchased was the one for me. What brought me to the Running Center was the beginnings of Plantar Faciitis. After about an hour and a half of trying on shoes and walking back and forth (so they can examine my gait), the pair of shoes I purchased has helped me tremendously. I no longer have heel pain! Thank you to the folks at the Running Center in Carlsbad! read more

This store is tucked behind the Vons shopping center in Carlsbad but once you find it, you're golden. I actually discovered this place back in 2005 when I ran my first half marathon and I've been coming here off and on since. This particular visit, I needed to replace my Team in Training branded fuel belt and was happy to find they had a healthy selection in stock. I purchased several other items as well and the workers were very helpful throughout. The Running Center is a great store to hit up for all your running needs. I was fitted for my first pair of shoes at this store and the level of service I received all those years ago is the same as I received in this last visit. It was exceptional. Keep up the great work! read more

This place is very happy when your are buying shoes and extremely unprofessional and irritated when you are returning the shoes and asking for your money back. It happen to me and now it happen to my wife today. We will be staying with New Balance store in Cardiff. read more

I had the pleasure of the owner of this Running Center help me with my shoe selection today. What a knowledgeable, patient, friendly man! I think I must have tried on every pair of women's stability shoe they had in the back of this place, walked up and down their track a thousand times, and he (Fred?) never blinked an eye. I felt that he truly wanted to help me with my feet issues. It's obvious he makes sure the rest of the staff is well trained and as patient as he is. I left there with a good pair of shoes, some inserts and even a couple of sheets of information about plantar faciaitis. You know, a person could just hop on zappos.com and get a nice pair of running shoes for probably $20 less, but it is worth the extra money to come to The Running Center for shoes - this place is the best! read more

This place is great. I came here when I bought a Groupon a few weeks ago. They had some blowout sales on last year's models, and since I love the Nike Lunarglide's I picked a pair for $50 that will reside in my room for a few months until I wear out my current pairs.. Now that was a great deal. They have lots of shoes, apparel, and a few electronics as well that cater to the running crowd. If it has to do with running or jogging, they probably have it, know about it, or can get it for you. The staff here are very friendly, and it you catch them when there are not many customers, they will give you tips and tactics to take on your next trail or beach run. They also have a running pad where they can help you see what your running style is. Kind of funny to see my big 4x4 foot on the big screen they have. I have already come back again, and even told a few of my friends about it. This place is all about running/jogging, so if that is your thing then you will definitely enjoy it. read more

There is a reason this place has 5 stars. They have earned all 5. I came in looking for running shoes, as I'm now training for my first half marathon, and have no idea what I'm doing. The girl helping me (I wish I had her name) was practically giddy to hear I was just starting out, and showed genuine enthusiasm and joy for me. She measured my gait on their track with a camera, and brought out several options. Everything she did was to make sure I was getting the best shoes for what I needed. I ended up in a pair of shoes that feel amazing, and a new excitement about running. I also feel like I made a friend and joined some secret club. please, if you're within 50 miles of this place and looking for gear, go here. You will never regret it. read more

i've been going to this store for years and recommend it to all of my friends and clients who need running shoes. The staff has always been friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and I've always left knowing that I got the best shoes for my needs. They even post a deal on Groupon every once in a while, so you might be able to pick up a coupon from there. But even without, it's money well spent! How it works: After consulting with their staff, they have you test out some shoes on their track running through the middle of the store. So come prepared to run, walk, sprint on the track, as they study your gait and access your needs. They will help you choose the shoes that will best accommodate your needs, and one by one you run down the track. Then through a process of elimination, and testing out different shoes on each foot (to feel the difference between the two and choose the most comfortable), you will eventually leave knowing you've picked up the best shoe for your needs. They can even special order you shoes if you don't find what you are looking for. If you have any injuries or pain associated with running, a new pair properly fitting shoes could be the answer to alleviating that pain and correcting any balance or gait issues. Definitely go check them out! read more

Awesome and helpful staff. Brought me out 11 different pairs of shoes to try on while I bounced about in every pair to come to a final decision! And of course I needed a pair of matching Goodr glasses to complete the attire! read more

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Great experience shopping with Carly today!! She picked out all the best shoes to try for my feet issues. Carly was so patient and sweet while I spent a long while choosing the right shoes. I also appreciate their return policy. Thank you!! read more

New favorite running store. Drove out of my way to an Asics store only to find that their selection and stuff was awful. Went to store locator on Asics site and found The Running Center. Had the shoe I wanted in multiple sizes for reference and a perfect fit. Great selection of socks, apparel and accessories as well. The staff is the true asset of this store with their knowledge, experience and expertise with running and the products they carry. I will definitely be back. read more

I have been coming to the Running Center for years now because they do such a great job fitting me in the right shoes. From triathlons to half and full marathons, I've never had a pair of shoes that didn't work! Not only that, but this store has amazing events and is very active in the community... what more can you ask for?! Andrew and Tyler have both fit me for shoes and been super helpful with encouraging me to try new brands and styles. And I cannot say enough about Dahlia, she has suggested everything from shoes and socks to nutrition and hydration. Her friendly personality takes over the store (in a good way!) and makes everyone feel at home, no matter their ability or experience. Thanks so much to the Running Center for being a part of my health and fitness journey! read more

I first shopped at The Running Center 2 years ago when excruciating foot pain was getting in the way of my runs. I figured it was time to stop buying my shoes at TJ Maxx and check into a specialty running store. The friendly and very knowledgeable staff immediately put me in the right shoe. It turns out I was wearing a size and a half too small! The different size made a huge difference and the staff brought out a few different shoes for me to try. I left with a pair of Nikes that truly changed the way I run and I've been buying my shoes there ever since! The few drawbacks of the Running Center are the store size (small) and the prices (retail). But when a sale comes up they're the same price, if not cheaper, than the big name sports stores. I can no longer imagine trying to buy shoes at some big name sports chain from some 16 yr old sales clerk who doesn't know squat about what I need. read more

This used to be my favorite running shoe store. The manager, Dahlia, was the best! She found the perfect shoe for me each and every time and would always make sure I was taken care of. She is no longer there and the place has gone to hell in a hand basket. The last time I went in a male employee spent the whole time telling me that since I got a sale item it was a final sale and nonreturnable. I have literally shopped at this place for over seven years and I never returned anything so I don't know why he felt the need to tell me that over seven times. My family and I will be taking our business to Road Runner from now on until they bring back Dahlia!!! If I could I would give this place zero stars but Yelp forces me to give at least one read more

Wow! The service here really is top notch. I thought this would be a long ordeal since I didn't know what i needed other than "a good pair of shoes for my troubled feet." Of course we drove around the entire shopping center before finding this place, it's tucked so far into the corner. And then today I see that they have a Groupon out. Ugh. Really???? Grr! The gal (girl?) who helped me set me up with a pair of starter shoes if you will and then boom, turns on this t.v. and camera and has me run down this path they have in the middle of the store. They then play back the tape in super slo-mo to evaluate your running and watching to see if you pronate or have other issues that need addressing. Based on what she saw she brought out two other pairs of shoes and had me run in both as a pair and then run with one foot in one brand and the other in well, the other. Boom - there's your shoe. Too cool. I also picked up a cute breast cancer running hat; both of which I hit the road in today. I'm so happy I followed my fellow Yelpers to this gem. read more

This place is great! Sales staff is attentive and informative. I go in a couple times a year and have always experienced excellent customer service and been greeted by friendly sales associates. The prices are comparable to what you'd find online and theres always sale shoes under $100. No pressure, expert knowledge - what more could you ask for? Edit: I was in 6 months ago and was given a $25 same as cash certificate to use at a later date. The fine print stated that the certificate expired after 90 days, but I thought it was worth mentioning anyways. Did they honor it? Yes! Can this place get any better?? read more

Just amazing... I had a coupon & a groupon as I'm a new "wanna be" triathlete & 1/2 marathon runner. I keep getting a blister on my middle toe of both feet, but more prominent on my left foot during long runs. And also, i'm ASICS period. Dont ask me to switch... Until today... I went in and was looking at the ASICS. My WONDERFUL SALESPERSON WHO I DIDN'T GET HER NAME (shame on me) came over & we started talking. I explained all that was going on & that i've tried every sock known to man cause it just couldn't be my beloved ASICS. We did the biometric fitting & I am neutral, so she brought out a bunch of products. I soon discovered the Mizuno Wave Rider 15 and put them on. They fit amazingly and new, "Uh Oh, I'm Gonna Switch... " Instant love. Having 2 coupons I knew I couldn't use both and was going in for 2 sets of shoes anyway. She also pulled out the Wave Precision 13's. A softer shoe for shorter runs and my sprint tri's. All in all this experience ruled. Just a cool down to earth place with no ego at all. The help I received was rock n' roll & I plan on visiting more often. I sometimes don't like dealing with places as such, due to ego ( see every LBS or Local Bike Shop in Oceanside & Carlsbad ) but this was an unreal experience. Thank you so much for the help and service... Thank you, David read more

This running store has always taken care of me for my running needs. I moved away to DC for 2 years and I am glad to be back in Carlsbad with The Running Center. I first started coming here when I was a novice, but now that I have graduated up to super novice, I still enjoy coming here. read more

Dahlia was wonderful! She was very helpful at finding me a shoe, showing a variety of shoes and price ranges. I will definitely be back for my next pair. They also offer a military discount, thank you Running Center! read more

Wow, I just finished my first workout in my new shoes from here and I can't believe the difference! I feel great, and I can tell the strain on my joints is considerably reduced! The owner (I believe) was in when I came in and really took his time with helping me find the perfect shoe for my needs, and the price I paid was literally half what I expected to spend! I can't say enough good things about this place, they'll be my go to for running shoes from here on out! read more

Nina took great care of us! She was busy w other runners but attended to us immediately and worked the room with grace and professionalism! Thank you Nina. We'll be back read more

I had such a wonderful experience with the Running Center. They were extremely professional, knowledgeable, kind and went out of their way to help me get just what I needed. I highly recommend you purchase your next pair of running shoes from the Running Center. read more

If you are like me and have a difficult time finding the right running shoes, and have spent days researching online, stop wasting your time. Dahlia or Jr. Are so helpful, friendly, and informed that within 30 minutes they will have analyzed your stride with their in-store testing equipment, helped you into the right shoes, and you will be out the door. I seriously wish people would tip them for the time they spend with you. Their expertise is worth every penny you spend, and when you go there you will see what I mean! read more

Serious runners will shop here. People who want to get serious about running will shop here. However, the people who need to shop here are those who are uncomfortable with running. The very knowledgeable staff will find the shoe that is best for you based on your running style, experience/ability, goals, and body type (i.e. pronation). They have the most current of the best shoes on the market for running. They also have a nice selection of running apparel, aids, and accessories. I talked to Bill and he was very informative and helped me into a pair of Brooks Trance (no sales pressure, just a bit of observation as I ran in a few pairs of shoes). I have been a user of Asics Kayano's for 10 years and could never see myself leaving that brand or shoe. I love how the new shoe feels and am confident that I will have a much better running experience. Here's to an early start on the 2012 resolution list! read more

The ONLY store I frequent for anything running related. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and just as friendly. Their recommendations are nearly always spot on, and if you find that real-world running doesn't reflect the experience you have in store, they are happy to take the shoes back (within reason of course). If I had any complaints, it would be that they don't have the selection big-box stores (though its not shabby by any stretch); but with big box selection comes big box employees and atmosphere....so no thanks. Overall, you can't go wrong with this place! read more

I got into running a few years ago, and wish I knew about this store sooner! I was intimidated to come here at first but quickly learned their employees understand everyone from the casual runner to the superstar track kids. The crew here has introduced me to my favorite shoes and gear, and while it does get busy in there (it's a small local business), they have always been patient and let me try on shoes until I am happy with the perfect fit. Runners are a particular bunch, and the staff is all avid runners themselves. They will check how you walk/run in the shoes to help you determine if the shoes are going to work for you in the long haul. If you sign up for their email there are often really good sale events. It doesn't hurt that this store has the cutest running tanks and shorts and some of my favorite gear has come from this store. The sock wall is my weakness, and the investment is totally worth it when your puppies are blister free and ready for more miles! Come to the Thursday runs to test out various shoe brands by taking a run in them around the neighborhood. Warning that you may make friends and become part of the best run club in town. This is my happy place for running goods! read more

If you're looking for running shoes and need some expert advice, Running Center is the place to go! Ask for Dahlia. I recently went to Running Center with my boyfriend. We were greeted right away and shown amazing service by Dahlia, she was very knowledgeable about all their products and helped us both find the best shoes. read more

All running stores are not alike. The staff really make or break the store. I've been to running stores where you are treated differently if you don't look like someone's idea of a "runner". My experience at this store was great! The staff were attentive, friendly and not pushy. They took their time to talk to me about what I was looking for and were very helpful. Great store and staff! read more

Dahlia was very knowledgeable about what size shoe would best help me with my plantar fasciitis. She had great customer service skills and was very welcoming when we first walked in. Thank you Dahlia for your help yesterday. read more

I ordered a pair of Asics Gel Foundation 9 running shoes from www.runningcenters.com out of California on a Tuesday morning. I received an email later that evening advising me that the shoes were scheduled to come in from Asics, but there was a delay until Friday. I called the number and spoke with an associate. They advised me if the shoes were not in by Friday, they would call me to ask if I would like to cancel my order or wait for them to come in? Out of curiosity, I asked if they had the newer Gel Foundation 10's in, and if so I would pay the difference and switch to... those. Without me even asking, they honored those shoes for the same price I paid for the 9's, and they shipped them out right after we got off the phone. Not only did I save a ton of money on the pair of shoes i wanted , but they just won a lifetime customer!! read more

Thomas was amazing! He knew I wasn't buying a shoe from the store (I have store credit to 2 other stores,) yet he still spent an hour with me, discussing what I should be looking for, and working with me to find my need. I will be telling all my military friends to go here, and I was telling Thomas that I wished I'd been here while I was in. The Running Center will get you stepping the way you SHOULD be! One last thing, if you use your feet, don't go to any other place to buy shoes. read more

I've been coming to the Running Center for years. The staff is very helpful and knowledgeable. No high pressure sales. I have purchased many shoes from them, only 1 time had a problem with a shoe causing blisters on my heels. It wasn't the store's fault, but they let me return the shoe without any hassle and get another pair. They offer informative clinics and resources to help you improve your running and be injury free. On fun run nights you can try on shoes so it's a great way to really know what shoe will work for you. They also have fun events. I highly recommend the Running Center. read more

My girlfriend brought me here. I had never heard of this place before; I have been a promising customer to Trade home Shoestore for many years and believed that they were the best in the business. Your employee, Roberto, moved my opinion, dramatically. Your store was incredibly imprrssive. I had no idea that the consultant was going to record my running behavior and condunct and analysis! That was definitely unique and I will gladly recommend this speicifc location to all of my Marines. Thank you for your time! read more

Staff is absolutely amazing. They know their stuff. Not some teenager who has no idea what they are talking about. Love the fact that they analyze your stride. It is not a gimmick. They record you running then play it back for you on a big screen in slowmo. Then they explain what is going on as you run. All these years I had no idea I needed a different kind of shoe. Would recommend to any runner. Prices are a little higher than some, but for the information you receive, it is COMPLETELY worth it! read more