Why Canadian runners love their local run shops

Show your support for your local run shop and you'll get a chance to win the newest shoe from ASICS

Ben Snider-McGrath April 5, 2020

On the Canadian Running Magazine Instagram page, we recently announced a contest that our followers can enter to win a pair of the ASICS Metaracer, the company’s new carbon-plated shoe. The Metaracer was one of the most anticipated shoe releases of 2020, and now you can win a pair if you show your love for your local run shop. The contest is simple: tag your local run shop on Instagram and tell us why you love the store. There’s still a chance to enter, but here are a few of the best comments and run shop reviews so far.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-evnu7AKjI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

You shop while your kids play

“Keeping play dough on hand for kiddos! Distracted kids = more time to shop.”

This comment was for Runners’ Choice Kingston, where parents have the freedom to browse and try on as many shoes as it takes before finding the right pair. Picking a running shoe should not be a rushed process, and with your kids busy playing, you’ve got time to spare.

“Lil” store, big heart

“The best service with a smile ever! Always ready to talk about training and anything else that’s on your mind. Greatest lil running store ever!”

This was a comment left for Cowichan Valley Running in Mill Bay, B.C. Runners don’t need a massive store with thousands of shoes and every brand of shoe known to running kind. As long as we have a kind person taking care of us who makes sure we’re outfitted in a reliable and comfortable shoe, we’ll leave a shop feeling satisfied. That’s what these local running shops—Cowichan Valley Running and all others across the country—offer runners everywhere.

Passion for running

“Le Coureur Nordique, because they always give good advice and their employees are qualified and passionate.”

“Maison de la Course … is full of goodies for runners. Super services from a staff with a vibrant passion for running. Always a [pleasure] to stop by.”

These two Quebec stores emulate what’s so wonderful about local running shops across Canada: a passion for the sport. When you walk into a small, independently-owned running store, you know that you’ll be helped by a fellow runner who’s just as passionate about running as you are.

Craft beer and running shoes

“BackRoads London—where else can you enjoy a craft beer while checking out new shoes!”

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg6jLlbBn5J/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

This shop in London, Ont., sells “brews and shoes.” When you need a new pair of running shoes, the team at BackRoads London will help you find the best fit. Afterward, you can head to the store’s taproom and enjoy a cold beer to celebrate your latest purchase.

Supporting the community

“Runners Soul, Lethbridge, Alta.—they have created such a wonderful running community which now consists of 75 per cent of my closest friends and for my son as well.”

Just like the team at Runners Soul has done, running shops from all over are integral parts of their local running communities. They encourage people to start running, they offer clubs where runners can meet up and they’re there when you need to update your running wardrobe or replace your shoes.

Online sales

“Great customer service for online sales in this trying time.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-h_6KDjSsa/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

This comment was left for Frontrunners Victoria, but most running shops in Canada are still offering online sales despite being physically closed during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Your local running shops need help from you and your running communities so they can make it through these difficult times and reopen their doors once this global health crisis is behind us. They have always been there to help you, so now it’s your turn to return the favour.