I was super nervous to go in but the staff was super welcoming. Emma was incredibly patient while she helped me out. I was running around the store to test out the shoes while she was explaining the difference between them. She was super kind and sweet. I will be coming back to buy more shoes in the future! read more

Knowledgeable and patient staff. I must have tried on 15 pairs of shoes while they helped me troubleshoot fit and gait.

Great place, excellent customer service. Remember as a child when you would actually have help with getting the right fit for your feet? Rachel helped me find exactly what I needed for returning to my walking routine. My shoes feel great and when I was being checked out, she offered to separate my order into 2 to use my coupon immediately. Finally, she told me to come back any time for local great walking paths. I'll definitely return and recommend them to others! read more

It definitely depends on who helps you. I usually have good people when I go in. However, last time I had a terrible woman. Clearly someone she knew and wanted to help more than me came in and she completely rushed me and I could tell she wasn't interested in helping me because she wanted to help the girl that had come in. It's fine to want to help others especially if you know them but ignoring me, rushing me, and clearly not wanting to assist me any longer made me feel absolutely horrible. I was not impressed with service. There are some great people though, I've had wonderful people help me before this woman. She was just rude. read more

My first visit was less than desirable. The salesgirl really has no knowledge of the shoes or how to properly assess a customers need. My friend urged me to go back and see Maria/Marie. I am so glad I did. She is beyond friendly, she listens and is super knowledgeable. She had me walk to the end of the store, to see how I walk, she was on the ground looking at my arches. She had three pair of shoes in mind that fit my needs. I decided on a pair of shoes for the gym. Then she had two pair in mind for my everyday needs. She even helped pick out inserts for my shoes. I feel that she went above and beyond to make sure I didn't leave a second time feeling defeated. She made up for the other girls misfortunes. If you are in need of shoes and someone to actually listen to you, ask for Maria/Marie I'm sorry about not remembering her name exactly, but in all of the excitement...I will be back to see her for another pair soon! read more

I purchased a pair of running shoes from VA runners so I could start running again. I need it really good running shoes. So even though they are pricey they are definitely worth it. I love my running shoes. They are very comfortable and provide great support. If you're looking for a good athletic shoe this is the place to go. read more

Ah, a runners dream store! VA Runner is great as far as I can tell. I had never been to one but they sponsored the Fredericksburg Blue & Gray Half and 5k (which was very nicely organized by the way) The store is on the larger side you're likely to find what you're looking for here... shoes, shirts, jackets, leg warmers, arm warmers, fun runners accessories. The staff was nice too. read more

Marq was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. He was the only one working this particular day and was able to provide excellent customer service to everybody showing great time management. Exceptional employee: will come back just for him. read more

Lots of nice running gear and great staff. Recently went here for the first time because a gift certificate and I'll be back to get more shoes or other running items. read more

Today was the second time I have purchased from VA Runner, the first was at their Woodbridge location maybe a decade ago. My feet were very different then, and the assessment was equally well done this time. I have tried so many different running shoes and the pair I purchased today was so comfortable it was like they were made for me. They accommodated my orthotics perfectly and had the perfect amount of room inside the shoe. After running on the hamster wheel for about a minute it was clear I was going to get the shoes. Went home and they were $10 cheaper then Amazon to boot. I will definitely go back and tell my friends to go there. I was seriously impressed. People complain about the service in the other reviews, and yes some of the employees are young. If you go there on a Saturday at noon and expect amazing service I'm sure you will be made if you have to wait for a few minutes. But the young women that helped me today taught me something and the customer service was excellent. read more

Always extremely helpful for all running related needs. They offer expert advise on all gear in the store and help you with a stride analysis when looking for the right pair of running shoes. read more

I always get my shoes here, they're the best. They had a large selection in the discount stack, and great prices, so I got two [pairs]! The service as always, was informed and gracious. Thanks guys! read more

I'm a huge fan of VA Runner. If you have trouble finding runner shoes, this staff will work with you as long as you need to ensure that you leave happy. Also, if by chance you don't like the shoes you've purchased after you get them home, you can return them without trouble. The visit that officiated my love for VA Runner was a few months after I had knee surgery. Once my rehab was complete, I went back to wearing the ASICS 21 series. I thought there wouldn't be any problem, but after a few runs, I got a pretty annoying case of plantar fasciitis. Turns out the arch in my left foot had fallen (somehow) during recovery, so the high block in the ASICS was causing the painful issue. When I went to VA Runner to test out some different shoe options, I really gave the staff some work. Because my feet aren't tracking or striking the same way anymore, finding one pair of shoes that works for both of my feet is really difficult. After trying on and running in about 7 different pairs, and swopping in and out different insoles, we decided on the Brooks Pureflow; a neutral shoe. It's been over 2 years since this experience, and I'm still wearing Pureflows. I may not always buy them from VA Runner, because I'm able to find them for a better price elsewhere, but I'm still very thankful to the staff for helping me on that initial visit. If you're in the need of running/walking/lifting/work shoes, don't hesitate to utilize the knowledge of the VA Runner staff. read more

I really wanted to like this place. I like to support local shops. Sadly, my experience there wasn't great. The young kid that helped me seemed very rushed and disinterested (I saw him leave for lunch right after he checked me out-which explains his haste). I was looking for a new running shoe after wearing Asics for eight years (they changed the design and they no longer worked for me). I explained what I like in a shoe and the clerk brought out several possibilities. His selection made me nervous because I need a neutral shoe and he brought out a range of shoes. I tried on several and ran outside in a few of them. I picked a lighter shoe with less cushioning. I liked the feel of the shoe but I was concerned about how my knees would react. The clerk explained that I had nothing to worry about because I could try them out for 14 worry free days. Three days and two short runs later I knew they were not going to work. I tried to return them. The manager told me that I could not return them but that I could exchange them. This is not what I was told originally but I need shoes so that's okay. I decided to just upgrade to a more cushioned version of the shoe I originally purchased. I paid the extra 20$. They didn't have it in stock but said they would order it and I would have my shoes in three to five business days. Not ideal, not tragic either. On day three they called to tell me the shoes I want are on back order until October. Four months is too long wait. At this point they told me I could 1) come in and try something else. Not a workable option as I found the shoe I wanted. 2) I could have store credit. 3) I could wait until October. I ordered them on Zappos instead and got them the next day. I'm 145$ worth of disappointed. I will eventually use the store credit, but I'm frustrated by this and really feel like this all came about because the kid helping me was hungry and wanted lunch. read more

Great service and the salesman was a great source of knowledge. I finally found a pair of running shoes that works well and alleviates the pain I was feeling as I have resumed running. read more

I'm an underpronator. I was given shoes for an overpronator. IE Given shoes to restrict pronation when I need shoes to PROMOTE pronation. Needless to say after severe shin pains and by pain I mean the most INTENSE burning of your life, I knew these shoes were not for me. However, since I was just beginning to run, which I explained, I originally thought this was normal until my friend and avid runner told me otherwise. Supination or underpronation targets the weight to the outside of the foot. The foot pronates very little. This is the rarest form of running and I get that, but my medial shin splints on the inside of my feet are angry. Supinators have high arches generally but because of being barefoot most of my life and constantly (I was raised in the south) mine are not nearly as high as they once were and due to these things I have now suffered a stress fracture on top of the shin splints or "tibial stress syndrome" according to the doctor because the impact to my body increased. I've been told this can take up to 6 months to heal and that makes me so sad. Had I received the right shoes and had my gait be accessed properly, this wouldn't have happened. Since most running shoes are designed to offer extra stability and motion control to target overpronation my ankles kept twisting and I just thought I was getting old and clumsy out of no where. I've ordered shoes for underpronation and I'm hoping those will help when I'm healed enough to really get back into it. But, I require an ABSOLUTELY neutral shoe that is LIGHTWEIGHT WHICH PROMOTE pronation, they don't restrict it. The only thing that I'll say is that they do not properly know how to access a gait and even if they would have put me in a true neutral shoe instead of one for overpronation I wouldn't be experiencing these issues right now. I'll embrace the suck, suck it up, tape it up and run on during my 5k on December 12th but, then I have to take a break until I'm healed. Here's praying it's not a 6 month recovery time. The staff was all super kind. read more

This is the only place I buy my running shoes. Over the years they have provided me with solid shoe recommendations, the service is stellar and they even have helpful advice for common running ailments. I am a loyal shopper because they consistently earn my business. read more

I would give this store a zero but Yelp does not allow that. I went to this store because I needed a new pair of running shoes and thought I would splurge and go to a true running enthusiasts store to get some good ones. Wow am I disappointed. After trying on different shoes and running in a couple they determined what I needed. The girl helping me said she would put in the order and that it would take 2-3 weeks to get them in. I waited 3 weeks for a call to come in - nothing. I waited another week - nothing. Finally I called them only to be told that they could not find my order. Then they found that the order was incorrectly placed and that, because of my size, it was back ordered and that they would be in within a month. I waited the month and still not call so I called them - again. Again, they could not find my order. When they finally did find it they said that they had been busy and that it had not been ordered - AFTER A MONTH!! I asked them again to place the order. The girl said she would and that the shoes should be in by Friday or Monday at the latest. As you might have guessed - no call on Friday and no call on Monday. I called them again on Tue (this time a bit frustrated). They said that they shoes were still on back order and that they had no estimated time when they could arrive!!! I have a race in a couple of weeks and NOT SHOES. They said that they could recommend some others and "try" ordering those. I said no thanks and that I would take my business elsewhere. These guys are definitely on my NEVER AGAIN SHOP THERE list. The place is a true joke. read more

This has been my running store for years- It was recently bought out so how that rolls out remains to be seen, but if you want an excellent pair of running shoes, tips on running or someone who can find a shoe to fit your unique foot and current 'issues' ask for NATE BROOKS. He is the BEST you can find and this small town is lucky to have him. As a runner and coach himself, he's got the knowledge and passion for running that makes VA Runner what it is. If you want to test out new shoes come to a fun run at the store when an Asics, Hoka, Mizuno rep is there-- you can put in 3-5 miles on a test pair to see if it's what you are looking for. They have always had the shoes I want in stock or in the store within days. Through IT band issues and a messed up mid-foot Nate has been there to give me advice and get my back on the road to recovery! read more

I love VA Runner! I went in last night because I've been struggling with shin splints and they gave me some drills to do as well as some stretches to help relieve my pain. They worked with me for quite a while to find a new shoe (mine were well past their prime) and they made sure the shoe was what I needed for my personal stride. The sales rep then even showed me how to lace them so my heel and ankle were better supported. Great service! read more

VA Runner in Fredericksburg is a good local running store, which specializes in fitting runners with the appropriate shoe. I've bought over five pairs of shoes here over the years, even once while back in town for business. Each time the service was great and I was happy their recommendation. The reason I gave them less than five stars is that their merchandise prices seem very high. I'd love to see them grow, but I suspect that larger stores and on-line retailers will hurt their bottom line over time. I recommend they focus on the shoe buying experience, and wouldn't be great to see a place like this merge with a physical therapy office on site. I can't tell you how many running injuries I've had over the years. That idea would kill it! read more

I have been buying my shoes here for years. All of the people that work in the store are knowledgeable and can help you find the right shoe. The best part of coming here is that they keep you in a database so they know exactly what shoe make and model you bought last time. read more

Professional, courteous, and helpful staff. They carry a wide selection of apparel and accessories. And across the street from Wegmans.

The best customer service in Fredericksburg, hands down. They will go above and beyond to make sure you are happy with your purchase. The employees are friendly and knowledgeable and will call on associates if they are stumped. Stephen, Katie, Chris, Nate, Greg, and the crew are really the best in town. I've never left feeling disappointed! (Plus Legos to keep the kids busy -very family friendly!) read more

This store does a great job of working with every individual that steps inside the door. I am not local but still get a welcoming feeling every time i visit. I have noticed also that the staff are involved in the running community. They are big supporters of not only local races but high school meets. During my visits, I have talked to Nate and Steven, both of which were a lot of help. read more

I have been running for almost 30 years and have been involved in the running specialty business for MANY years. This is one of the most professional and dedicated shops in the running-tech business. One of the things that VA Runner prides themselves on is the one on one contact with their customer. They really do go the extra mile (no pun intended) to make sure you get the correct shoe. You get two weeks to test the shoe to make sure it is a good fit for you. Nothing is perfect and many people expect that the first shoe you try on will be perfect. This is why they go through an almost Dr. like examination of your foot type and running style... Also, a lot of people state that it takes almost 15 minutes to get served. To get proper service you might have to wait your turn (just like in elementary school). If you go in on the weekend there are between 9 and 10 employees and from the time the door opens to the time they lock up, they are slammed....if you want good service and the proper amount of time spent on you, then relax and be patient. Long story short, VA Runner is a great place to buy gear and to get information on the sport....life is too short to complain about waiting 15 minutes or that a high school kid waited on you. Just remember you were like that HS kid once, learning and getting experience dealing with people. read more

I've done two training programs with VA Runner and had been running for years prior. Through the program I learned more helpful tips and techniques as well as life time friends. We formed a community and the building block was Nate, Clay and Greg. I will always cherish my memory running with Nate blazing a trail and learning about his family. Nate isn't just an employee he's a mentor, thanks for sharing your love of running. read more

I've got to say VA Runner is the best running store I've been to in Fredericksburg without a doubt! A gentleman by the name of Stephen took the time to go over what kinds of running shoes are available and the differences between them. After some one on one work he decided I should go with a slimmer neutral show. I ran out of there in a nice pair of New Balance 890s read more

Like any store, there are pros and cons. Upside: The staff here has been knowledgeable every time I've gone in and has been able to suggest the right shoe based on my needs and my questions. They have a wide selection of running gear and shoes, etc. Convenient location in Fredericksburg. They're a great local resource for all runners. They have a decent exchange policy, which is more than you'll get at other stores. Downside: You can usually find a better deal on shoes online. I usually don't mind keeping my business locally if it's with a great resource. Also, as with any business, inventory can be a challenge. On my last trip there, I worked with an employee to pick out a pair of Nikes that were only in their Woodbridge location. It took 5 days to get the shoes from Woodbridge to Fredericksburg and when I picked them up, they were two left shoes in different sizes and different models. The staff was very apologetic and offered to have someone drive up and get the right shoe for me within 24 hours. I was told that they missed the shoe because it had been on the store wall. I don't know if that means I'm getting a floor model shoe or not, but the bigger headache is the supply / delivery problem. TL;DR: If you don't mind paying a little more to support a local resource for runners, this is a great spot. If you know exactly which shoes you want and want to save some money getting them, shop around online. read more

Huge Selection! However, the majority of sales associates are HS students and customer service gets a little shaky. I have typically waited more than 15 min for assistance. I once recommended many of my athletes for this running store but considering not doing that anymore. Once you're in front of an associate, you're golden. However, you'll be waiting a while. Novice runner will get plenty of attention with fit and type. Expert runners who just need a size to try, expect to wait. Best bet to arrive on a weekday. read more

I have used this store for years, and don't know what I'd do without it. They've helped me out time and again with finding the right running shoes, as I've slowly improved my running form in response to injuries. Nate is amazing, but honestly most every associate there I've worked with really seems to know their stuff, in terms of evaluating your running form and helping you find the right shoe and fit for you. This summer I took my son in for his first real pair of running shoes--and they did a great job with him as well. This is one of my favorite businesses in the Fredericksburg area, and I can recommend them without hesitation. read more

I went to the store this morning. There were two people helping customers and another person at the register. I wanted to get some running shoes but I stood there and walked around for a good 10 mins but no one even acknowledged my presence and so I left. When i left the store I called the store to let them know what happened. I hope they train employees to acknowledge people even if they are busy so that people know that they are not just being ignored. Needless to say I felt like they did not need my business. read more

The best customer service you could ever get! They are always well staffed so plenty of people to help- they are not on commission so there is no pressure sales. They are always willing to give general to specific education on products or just running. Always wiling to let you run in the shoes and bring back if they aren't right for you- within a timely manner. Please ignore the poor reviews I have been shopping here for a decade. Every experience has been wonderful. read more

You can buy quality running shoes and apparel just about anywhere. But VA Runner is much more than a "sports" store. Their knowledge is unsurpassed and their enthusiasm is contagious. They really take the time to find out your needs in a running shoe and make sure they find what will work for you. And if you want more, they are unsurpassed in their support of the running community. If you are just looking for a place to buy a pair of shoes, go look online. If you want first rate service and to be part of Fredericksburg's running community, head over to VA Runner! read more

This was my first visit to VA Runner and overall I'm pleased and recommend this place. They were quite busy at the time I went in so, of course, it took a little while for someone to be available to help the next customer. When an associate was available they actually took someone that came in after me -- it happens. The associate that helped me was easy to work with and wanted to make sure I got the style shoe I came for; unfortunately, they did not have my size in stock. An order was placed and I was able to pick up my shoes in about two days! read more

Only place I buy my running shoes! Everyone is so nice and helpful. I've coached track for 5years and we always send our runners there as well read more