As a runner, it is hard to find stores that particularly cater to us. We go to every basic sporting goods store like Dick’s or Sports Authority and can barely find anything. The walls are stacked high with gear for lacrosse, baseball, football, soccer, etc. However, when you ask someone who works there where the running shoes are, they lead you to the Nike Free Runs. For me, a disappointing sigh comes, as I am sure it does for every other runner who has experienced the same thing. However, things are not like that at Virginia Runner. A whole store designed for running, and to better you as an athlete.

My first time in VA Runner it was probably one of my exciting times in my short 16 years of living. I walked in and new this was going to be a great place just from the atmosphere. Right away you can tell that this place cares about you the consumer, not the amount of profits they make. The moment I walked in I had several people welcome me with warm smiles. When it comes to these kind of places people can feel intimidated, but no here. I didn’t feel judged based off of my athletic ability they just seemed to be excited to know there was another runner here.

Almost right away I had someone helping me. When you go anywhere else employees ask if you need anything, but you feel awkward and politely tell them you’re fine in a hope they will go away. Nope, not here. At VA Runner it is their goal to help you and not feel embarrassed or awkward. I have been a runner for almost seven years now, and still can feel awkward in places like this. However, instantly here there felt no judgment and wanted someone to help me. I sat down and told the person who helped me that it was a time for new shoes. He measured my shoe size, because to them proper fit is very important. I was asked to run back and forth so they could examine my running style. Immediately they knew what type of shoes I needed. The person helping me came back with several boxes of shoes (and gladly no Nike Free Runs). I tried them on and wanted to hear my input on every shoe. I could tell they genuinely cared about how happy I was, rather than just shoving myself in a pair of shoes to make a profit.

I decided on a pair of shoes and made my way to the cash register. As paying for my shoes I looked around and saw people of ages, and fitness levels around me. This is a store that anyone can come to and be welcomed. You shouldn’t be afraid just because you can’t run a sub-6 minute mile or you can barely complete a 5k. Here they welcome everyone who is trying to better themselves. No fear, and no intimidation. This somewhere my Mom, and Brother could go and even though they aren’t runners like my Dad, Sister, and me still feel valued.  I most definitely recommend VA Runner to anyone who is looking for new running shoes. It is a great place to go, and you will always walk out happy. I have now been going here for the past three years and have always been satisfied with my experiences.

They have locations in Central Park and Woodbridge.