If Running Etc. isn't your go-to store for athletic shoes it should be. I was originally referred to them by a physical therapist following knee surgery over ten years ago, and I have been a loyal customer ever since. I have shopped at both their Norfolk and Virginia Beach locations and have consistently found the customer service to be top-notch. They always analyze your gait before making any recommendations to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, as a Brooks enthusiast, I appreciate that they offer one of the largest selections of Brooks footwear in the area and if you are lucky you can catch last years model on sale. If you are experiencing foot pain or are simply looking for the right pair of sneakers, I 100% recommend stopping by. read more

Running Etc - Shoe wall - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

It's been several years since my last visit to Running Etc VB. The strip they are in has sadly got much worse with regard to aesthetics and low occupancy. So bonus on plenty of parking. The service remains top notch and was immediate. I needed a replacement shoe for my four year broken down everyday Hoka's. I have really loved the brand and hoped to stay in them. But was also open to try others. The sales guy understood my needs and confirmed my old Hoka's were trash. They upgraded the Bondi I'm in to the 10, so he started with that. However, he first had me walk up and down to evaluate my gait. He measured my feet. He pulled out around six colors to choose from and I tried on a pair and walked again for evaluation. They felt much better than my broken down sneaks. After an inspection of the laces and the way my toes were in the box he pulled out a wide shoe from the back. They only came in three colors, but the gray is what I wanted anyway. After walking again the wide shoe felt the best and more comfortable in the toe box. My previous shoes were regular width. We also discussed socks that would be more beneficial for walking and jogging avoiding cotton at all cost. Cotton retains moisture, that can cause blisters. So go with synthetics, or wool. I tried on a synthetic by Feetures that felt great and picked up a pair to purchase with new shoes. I wore my new ones out and they recycled my old ones and the box. Hoka's are not a cheap brand. So expect $165 and up. Checkout was smooth on my card. Running Etc is a unique experience on service as I described. They know the sport of running, they know their products and best of all the know how to satisfy their customers with phenomenal service. Whole heartedly recommend!!! read more

See all

I am a huge running etc. store fan. I have been coming here for years for all my running needs. The staff here are so helpful and I enjoy seeing familiar faces. If you are a runner, you will find all your runner needs from running gear to energy gels and all the accessories a runner will want. The prices are fair and they do have sales every now and then. Always check out the lucky shoe wall for great sale prices on previous shoe models and of course the sale rack. read more

Running Etc - Outside parking lot in front of running etc - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Good selection and even better service. Andrew shares his expertise and uses technology to ensure you're in the sneakers that best fit your needs. Not pushy, no pressure. Your 100% satisfaction is his priority. Although Andrew was my associate, I observed the whole staff demonstrating the same customer service. Good products, good people. 8-) read more

My daughter has been having issues with her Achilles and the physical therapist highly recommended she get new running shoes and to try Running Etc out. When we walked in we were immediately greeted asked if we needed any help. The associate recommended a few options and she found the perfect new pair of shoes. It's been 2 weeks and she said already wants to go back for a second pair. lol. The only "negative" is I felt like it was a bit pricey. read more

Running Etc - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Came in to get my 8 year old fitted for running shoes. They took the time to look at her stride, measure her feet and explain to me what shoes would work best. Even gave me some tips on my shoes. This isn't a big store where they pressure you into buying this is a stoe of fellow runners selling quality gear at reasonable prices. I am very impressed with their selection of styles, brands, and literally just the massive amount of different things stuffed into the little store! Come check it out! read more

Running Etc - She loves her new Nikes! - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

My podiatrist recommended this shoe store and I'm glad I visited. The service is amazing and the variety of top quality shoes is hard to beat. I will be back. read more

Best running store in va beach. They know their products well and are very good at helping you find just what you need. read more

Running Etc - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Thank you so very much! I ran ( ok ran/walk) today with 95% of the pain I was having gone thanks to your expert advice in shoe selection.

Wonderful experience! I recently got serious about running within the past year and my old shoes needed replacing, so I decided to come see the experts! First, my feet were measured to determine my size. Then I was told to take a jog down the indoor runway to assess my gait and determine what type of shoe I would need (I love that they have a runway; a running store I bought from before I moved here just had a sidewalk outside for testing). It was determined that I was just fine in a neutral shoe. Then the fun part--soooo many options were brought out for me to try! I got to try out each one, decide how it felt, run then down the runway, and test a couple of my faves on the treadmill. In the end I found a pair that was perfect! Definitely will be returning for my next pair of running shoes. If you run or looking to start running, definitely come here to get the perfect shoe--the wrong shoe can cause a lot of discomfort or even injury. Other than shoes, they have everything else you could possibly need to run: apparel, hydration packs, Goodr shades, socks, massagers, nutrition gels/snacks, etc. Nice selection of goods. read more

Running Etc - Found my perfect shoe! - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Again 5 star service! I've always wore road racing flats for everything....until diagnosed with a crappy painful comdition (pttd: adult onset flatfoot). Wearing racing flats led me to look down on Hoka shoes . They look weird and overly cushioned. Never did I believe a pair of Hokas would strap my feet let alone the Bondi. Thanks to Running Etc for having a vast selection, I was able to get the right shoe and be fitted properly. Because Running Etc has a treadmill to try shoes and numerous versions of Hokas, i was able to test the Bondi 6, Clifton 6 and Arahi. Entering, I wanted the Cliftons since my Rincons can be used for track but the comfort factor of the Bondis were unbeatable. Excellent service from staff and sharing stories of running with Mark made it another great trip! Again, Running Etc is the Mecca for runners. The Beacon of excellence, the creme dele creme of all things running. LOL read more

Running Etc - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

See all

I wasn't a runner in 2015. Now in 2018 I am a marathoner. Running Etc has been there ever step of the way! The Fitting Experience- If you think you're gonna be even a casual runner do your body a favor and get a real pair of running shoes. If you are already an experienced runner you know where I'm going with this. These shoes aren't selected because of fashion, these are made for performance and to properly support your body as you hit the pavement. Over the last few years I have probably been fitted about 3 times as my stride has changed and my distances grew. Every time ends up being a totally comprehensive experience as I search for my "Cinderella" moment. Every time I have been fitted at Running Etc I have that moment and I am in running shoe heaven! They spend time working with you and paying attention to how your body reacts to the different shoes as well. They have a massive selection of sizes & brands. The Products- They have everything a runner could need. (Pro tip: the holidays are coming- the runner in your life will appreciate a gift card from here). They have a large selection of clothing and keep their displays updated and relevant to the season. I feel like they carry multiple brands of every type of product too so you can have a few different options to choose from. Their massive GU/energy selection makes me feel like the runner's equivalent of a kid in a candy store. If you need it, they probably have it. If they don't have it they might have something better. The Community- Running Etc is a local store that truly cares about their local runners. You will often see their staff racing the local races big and small. They are engaged on social media encouraging runners all around the region. They show up to the big & small community runs and host private events at their store for some of the local running groups. They have a fantastic ambassador program allowing them to stay engaged with the community in that way too. Their engagement in the community always feels authentic, not just for show or extra dollars. They also have community events and free workouts at their store- check their website and facebook for more information. No matter where you are in your running journey, this is the shop for you. They are an EXCELLENT first stop before you even take your first few strides. Maybe you are just starting to walk and never have the goal of running- this is still your spot! They won't make you feel stupid for asking questions- ask away. It's way better than endless googling. Maybe you have been running for years and have lost track of how many ultras, marathons, and everything in-between you have done. You probably already know how amazing this store is and have been in a few times to swap stories with the staff as you pick up your gear. Nothing but the best vibes at this great local shop! read more

Recommend anyone to this store for their running needs. Some highlights: - They were almost ready to close the store but were willing to wait until i arrived at the store. - Their sales staff person - Shannon did a great job finding a specific type of Brooks Beast shows that would compensate for my shin splints problem. She could have sold me a pair of shoes that originally cost me $160, but set me up with a pair that was $60 ($100 off original price)! That's what I call customer service. - In the middle of a pandemic and they have their COVID-19 mitigation procedures down pat to ensure a safe customer experience. They offered to sanitize down the credit card machines prior to purchase of merchandise. Fabulous customer experience, I highly recommend this store! read more

Best running shoe store in VB! They are so willing to spend time with you trying on every single shoe to make sure you walk out with the perfect fit. Their customer service is second to none- I was helped by a young redhead who was so polite and friendly. They are so great about having the right sizes and so many colors to choose from and if they don't have it they make sure to order it for you! I have bought many shoes here and I will always choose Running Etc customer service over some impersonal website! read more

Running Etc - The shoe buffet - Sporting Goods Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

They are incredible. The staff watches you walk and determines which type of shoe is best for you. Then I was brought multiple brands, styles, and colors. Going in I thought I was going to walk out with a pair of Brooks. About 7 pairs later I found the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn made by Hoka. I'm extremely pleased and will be back. read more

This is a great little running store off Laskin Road with another location in Norfolk. I stopped in to find some good running shoes for the Disney Princess Half Marathon I'll be running at the end of this month in Florida. I was promptly greeted by a nice fella working in the shoe section who watched my barefoot walk, measured my feet, and brought out three pairs of shoes to get a feel for what I liked - then he brought out another three - then another three - and when we had narrowed it down to about my favorite two - I put one of each on each foot - walked and ran - then did the same thing a few times - then put one pair on - then another - etc. etc. until I felt good about the fit. All my questions about sizing and fit were answered and I didn't feel rushed at all. I ended up with a fabulous and comfortable pair of Brooks running shoes and I feel better about my upcoming race! read more

My daughter needed running shoes and we found the store based on their Yelp reviews. We both received the best customer service ever! The staff was attentive and did not rush us at all! Support this business! read more

I went searching for a new comfortable pair of well fitted running shoes. When I arrived Mark helped me. I showed him how my current shoes had broken down and he watched my natural gait as I walked and jogged. He took time with me and showed me several different types of shoes as well as taught me how to lace my shoes to help with the slipping in the ankle. I ended up buying two pair and I would deffinately recommend going to this store if you need good shoes and great customer service!! Thanks Mark read more

I had the best experience at Running Etc yesterday. Emily helped me choose the perfect pair of shoes after she took time to watch me run and walk. I've never been measured for a running shoes but after this experience, I plan to get remeasured every year. I purchased a pair of Hokas that cut 30 seconds off my mile time! Such an awesome business. read more

Great place with great staff! Happy to have purchased my last pair of running shoes from them.

Absolutely great experience! I knew what I wanted to try before going in so would've been straightforward to just bring me the shoes and leave me to figure it out. Instead they asked me a couple questions to kind of verify that those shoes would be right for me and chatted with me as I tried them on and tested them out. I ended up getting two pairs! One of the models was one I'd worn before that was on sale and knew I liked and they even checked the other location to make sure that there wasn't another sale pair in my size available! Multiple of the employees talked with me both conversationally and in case I needed additional help as I perused the store after being all set with my shoe choices. Super nice staff and great selection of products. read more

Great service and selection. I was in town for the week, needing a new pair of running shoes. I tried a different running store and didn't receive help, then went to Dick's before stopping here. They had the exact shoe I wanted at Dick's, but $20 cheaper...plus, the gentleman that helped me was much nicer! read more

My Name is Cliff and I have been Shopping here for years Generally speaking I know exactly what I want to buy but with all the new running shoe models and new technologies coming out each year the new version of a running shoe you liked alot in the recent past you might like even more or you might not like the new release as much.Its all a matter of your personal preference and running style.When trying the new models out they are extremely patient and helpful and they will.let you try on many pair of shoes and run around the store so you can compare the different midsole feels and the upper material lock down feels.And for the Tidewater Striders Running group they always give an extra little discount. It is always a pleasant experience going into the Running Ect store..Everyone working there is so chill and mellow.Each year I probably buy about 3-4 pairs of running shoes for either everyday lightweight work horse trainers to temp/speed day shoe. And many other items that I love using now were first recommended by Mark (like the Nuun drink tablets you drop in water help hydration and electrolytes ) What makes Running Ect stand out above many businesses is that most staff members know all the runners coming into the store by your first name and it is Ike one big family in a sense that we all share the love of running and many times we all see each other at local races or bigger events and there is deep sense of community and connection in this hobby,lifestyle and sport. The whole staff is awesome. Mike ,Mark,Shannon,Carol ,John and Drew and Caleb who had moved away are all awsome.. For anyone looking for a great running shoes or apparel this is probably one of the best places in the Country.! read more

I wanted to get back into running. The staff were very friendly and patient. They recommend the exact park of shoes based on the pronation of of my feet while I jogged and walked in the store. After trying on a few pairs of shoes I found the perfect pair. Thanks again! read more

I went to Running Etc. a few years ago when I first started running and I got a pair of shoes that I loved and that fit me well. I bought several pairs and wore them until I could no longer find them (running shoes go out of commission every few years). So last year I went to Final Kicks and was talked into a really expensive pair of shoes, but I thought the sales person must know what he is talking about since he works at a store especially for runners. While wearing the most expensive pair of shoes I had ever bought I ended up getting severe knee problems, shin problems and a heel spur. I thought it was my age. Little did I know I was wearing completely wrong shoes. So a few weeks ago I went to Running Etc again to look for a new pair. Immediately the sales person saw that my shoes were completely wrong for my feet and my strut. I got a pair of shoes that were not only cheaper, but much more conducive for my body structure. Although I am still trying to fix the damage that the old shoes did to my body, my new shoes are helping a lot. The staff at Running Etc are so helpful and knowledgeable that I don't know why I went somewhere else. They have everything you need to run and more. A+ business. read more

I can't believe no one has reviewed this location yet! Running etc. is THE best place in town to get your running gear. They watch you run, and will steer you towards the best shoes for your pronation type. The staff is always helpful and friendly....and they carry some really great stuff. The store stocks brands like Asics, Saucony, Brooks, New Balance, and Nike. They carry everything from shoes and socks to jogging strollers and apparel. They carry all sorts of accessories, and even have sports beans, goo, etc. They support a lot of local races and charities, which is great! I love coming here and supporting my local businesses rather than letting Dicks and Sports Authority take all my money :) read more

The staff in this store are all helpful and nice. My husband and I both recently went in for new shoes. Each person that helped us was knowledgeable and had great suggestions. We both walked out with the perfect shoes. They also have a very good selection of clothes, socks, and sunglasses. read more

I traveled to Virginia Beach for work and forgot to pack running shoes. A quick Google search led me to Running Etc. I had never been "fitted" for running shoes before, and the sale associate helped me to find shoes that fit the way I run. This involved me doing laps in the store, first without shoes, then with the variety of pairs I tried on. It was a great way to find the shoes that fit me best and felt most comfortable. I ended up buying a pair of nice comfy Nikes, and I even picked up a few pairs of running socks. My experience here was fabulous, and I'll definitely be back when I travel to Virginia Beach next! read more

Most impressive and knowledgable folks around! Great selections of anything a runner would need with so much help from a super friendly staff that know every detail about what they have! Whether you go for new shoes or just advice it's a one stop shop for runners! read more

This store is amazing! We got amazing help from the employees and I found some great shoes for both walking/ running and work!!!

I would encourage anyone to go to running etc. to get fitted for the perfect walking/running shoes, this is not something you want to buy off the rack. I've clearly been wearing the wrong size for quite a while now, but put in about 5 miles with my new shoes and I've never felt better. The service was professional, the young lady was knowledgeable, and she was attentive yet quick and efficient, I can't think of a better combination. read more

Excellent customer service. Their one on one service, knowledge, and patience is truly outstanding. Highly recommended. read more

I have been having a lot of trouble finding the right shoe and doing it on my own. My wife suggested that I check out this place because they will assess your gait and stride and make suggestions. Shannon was awesome!!! She not only identified that I was wearing the wrong size shoe for running but, started off with 4 different brands to try on. It only took two before I was sold on the Brooks Glycerin for my neutral stride. She was very personable and knowledgeable. I will be sticking with them for my running needs from now on. read more

If I could give 10 stars I would. Running Etc and all their staff are simply the most knowledgeable and supportive personnel anywhere. They only hire runners, triathletes etc and their wealth of knowledge and expertise is amazing. They span all ages and abilities and their store stocks a huge selection of shoes, apparel and accessories. Their customer support is outstanding. If you are a beginner or been running for years they will be able to help you. read more

They have the most knowledgable and helpful staff! They never rush you and spend as much time as you need to figure out how you run, which shoes are best for you, and even what you like look wise. They also had a really great sale and I didn't spend more than $100 for a pair of asics. read more

This is a shoe store that I'm entirely impressed with for more reasons than this visit. Quality running shoes aren't cheap. My daughter's baby sitter was a runner when she was in high school and had aspirations of being a distance runner in the Olympics. Fast forward a few years to right while baby sitter goes to college, She goes off to a summer camp for runners then the problems start happening, the summer after her freshman years in college, she needs surgery on her knee. Ending her dreams of becoming an Olympic hopeful, but due to the fact that she had determination, the coach kept her on the team in school. Now it's my kids turn, with my child's baby sitter now working and of course, my kid does the sitting, I have to admit that finding shoes to fit my kid is extremely hard. Not only does she have a small foot, she has narrow heels and walks flat footed, or what people used to say was flat feet. After seeing everything that worked on with her feet, kiddo decided on the 1st pair of shoes that she tried on! I knew that running shoes would be expensive, but now that I spent the time with her getting the shoes, she refuses to wear anything else for the past 2 weeks! Glad I splurged for the running socks as well!! read more

Mama has a new pair of shoes! I've been running on and off for the better part of 30 years now (mostly off) and have been going to the Ghent location since I moved to Tidewater in the 90s. In my heart of hearts, I'm still that girl who frequents the local stores on Colley but in reality I live in the suburbs and found the Va Beach store to be more convenient to where I live and appreciate the spacious parking lot for my stroller toting SUV. I was worried about the shoes I've been running in for this latest bout of adding running to my weekly schedule - they are two years old (I know - see the on-and-off comment above) and I bought them before I was pregnant so I thought perhaps one or both of my feet or gait or all of the above had changed. We went in on one of the two Sundays the stores are open (their anniversary weekend and the weekend before Christmas) and was pleasantly surprised to hear that they were having their anniversary sale. The salesman, Drew, watched me walk and run on their in-store runway and let me know that pregnancy had not changed my gait. He measured my feet and we found out that my right foot grew a tiny bit and both feet got a bit wider. He asked me about the shoes I liked and didn't like, and brought out a selection for me to try on ranging from last year's model of the shoe I'd been runninng in to a top of the line version of another brand. Just like me, my feet are creatures of habit and felt great in the new model of shoes I already had, albeit a little bigger and a a little wider size. The entire time I felt like he was truly interested interested in finding me the right shoe rather than making the sale, which was awesome. Are they pricier than buying at a discount store or online - yes, but their customer service was top notch and their selection of wares was truly anything a runner's heart desires. And I like supporting our neighbors running local stores! read more

Let me start by saying I was interested in the Hoka running shoe and decided to stop in on a Friday night. I got there at 7:00 and noticed that the sign said they close at 7:00. I was told to just go on in there were people in the back. I was met by Shannon and told her what I stopped in for and that I understood that it was past closing. She told me not to worry and spent 30 minutes with me trying on a few pairs of running shoes. Shannon was having a pair sent over from another store because there was none my size. I returned on Tuesday and Mark took care of me by watching me run to find the perfect shoe for my running style. I tried on several pair and decided to go with the Hoka one one Bondi 4. This was one of the best experiences I've had buying shoes. Mark took a lot of extra time with me and talked a lot about different races in the area and outside the area that I may be interested in. The shoes were no more expensive than in other shoe stores. I have found the place to go for all my running needs. I could not be happier with the product I purchased nor the people that helped me purchase them. I would highly recommend Running Ect to anyone looking to start running or those that are seasoned veterans. read more

My experience at this location was less than pleasant. First off you can buy the same shoes they carry online fir 30% cheaper or more! What they do offer is a knowledgable staff. Well that stuff must have been on break because the young girl who "helped" me acted annoyed and actually said they had no shoes that fit what I wanted. I helped myself and got a pair of Nike Trails that were perfect. I bought a second pair online since I knew the size and saved 50.00! My suggestion, go in, try on shoes, than buy online! Try not hiring elitist running snobs! read more

The only place in Hampton roads you should be buying your shoes at. Everyone who works here is an expert on running and not somebody just getting you the pair of shoes you asked for. They will assist you with any problems you might have with running and offer great sound advice. read more