I know PR will take care of me for all of my running needs. Living in Manayunk and working in Center City (CC), those are my primary stores, but I do mix in a visit to the University City location occasionally. The CC crew, like the others, are absolutely awesome! They will put in painstaking efforts for shoe fitting to support your quest for the perfect shoes. I can speak to their apparel as well, which I try to rock frequently. I can also speak to the staff knowledge on training supplies, top notch, and the store's stock of said supplies (electrolytes, gels, chews) which will ensure you can hit your goals. Beyond the items in the shop, check PR CC out for their group activities, such as weekly Thursday runs, planned vendor visits, and a slew of others I which aren't popping in my head at the moment. These events are great because friendly staff attract friendly athletes (of all skill and experience)! read more

See all

Had a great experience at the Philadelphia Runner store on Walnut. Huge thanks to Stephanie for helping me choose Hoka Bondi 8s for my mom -- she was incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about getting the right fit. I came back later to say thanks, but it wasn't her shift, so I left a small Russian chocolate for her with the team. Stephanie, if you happen to see this -- hope you got it and liked it No rush or expectations at all. If you'd like to say hi, you can find me on Instagram: @amkim77. Thanks again to the store for great service. read more

I've been going to this store for years, not the Philly store, but the NYC and when I tell you the Philly location is theeeee best. All I have to say is Michael, Michael, Michael. Go to Michael!!!!! I'm sure everyone who works here is knowledgeable but Michael is on the another level. He took his time with me, we had nice conversation about my feet before he even brought me any shoes to try on. I've never not had some pain in my feet while running or walking. Its been to the point where I thought it was just something I have to live with. But Michael was like nope, he found me a pair of running shoes that are beyond comfortable. I never thought I would feel this way about some shoes, but they are amazing. He really listened and knew what I needed. Definitely go to this store and ask for Michael, the guy with the beard. read more

The service and selection are outstanding! I had a wonderful time conversing with the employees here, despite it being insanely busy due to the World Cup. read more

Philadelphia Runner ("PR") is simply the best! As someone who started running in NYC, I was lucky to get great advice from an elite running store there early on. Since then, I've had about 10 pairs of the same Brooks Adrenaline sneakers I was "prescribed"--because when something works (meaning no injuries), you stick with it! Now that I'm in Philly, I'm so grateful to have Philadelphia Runner, a store that matches the same expertise, service, and community. PR's selection is outstanding--everything is thoughtfully curated, blending performance, function, and understated style. However, what really sets PR apart is the staff. They are incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and passionate about running. Even though I came in already knowing what works for me, I've had great conversations with their team and appreciate how they make expert advice accessible to runners of all levels. They're elite athletes, yet totally approachable and generous with their knowledge--an admirable balance. Beyond shoes, PR has an impressive selection of recovery tools, sunglasses, electronics, and foam rollers--everything an active city person needs. I walk everywhere, so having the right shoes matters for running and daily life, and I trust Philadelphia Runner completely. They also host running groups that foster a great community and make the store feel like more than just a place to shop. One of the things I love most about PR is its range. Whether you're a seasoned runner, just starting out, or simply looking for stylish, comfortable sneakers for everyday wear, PR has you covered. It stocks all the big names alongside unique brands like Diadora that aren't as widely marketed in the U.S. Philadelphia Runner is a huge asset to the community. Whenever I hear someone complaining about foot pain or wanting to start running, I send them here, knowing they'll be in the best hands. This place is elite in quality but never elitist in attitude. Highly recommended! read more

My go to for sneakers in PHL. PHL runner is a staple in the Philly running community. They not only bring great value with sneakers but they host weekly runs and serval races around the city. The service at PHL runner is second to none. All of the reps I've interacted with have been very pleasant, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful. They truly want you to be happy with your purchase. read more

Found the PERFECT shoes and idly enough, the perfect sandals. Didn't expect that! Also, there was a sale so I'm happy. The service was great too. read more

Had such a great experience here! I was a little overwhelmed walking in with a list of recommended sneakers (but not really knowing where to start or what anything meant). Takia helped me right away, talked to me about what I was looking for, looked at the list from my doctor, measured my feet, and started pulling shoes for me to try on. She was extremely informative and talked to me about every sneaker she grabbed and also very patient through the process. Will definitely return to Philadelphia Runner any time I need a new pair! read more

Customer Service was amazing!! I wanna give a big thanks to John for helping me find an amazing pair of running shoes for my first group run !. He was so helpful and heard my needs. I will be back fasure. read more

Excellent service from Aaron Knew what I was looking for and was knowledgeable about the sneakers I needed read more

Superior service! Came to check out some shoes. Got my foot scanned . Workers were very informative and were able to help me choose the correct shoe for my foot. Went home ran 3 miles with new shoe that was recommended and it made a huge difference. Highly recommend!!! read more

Philadelphia Runner - Shoe Stores Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

After one of my Yelp friends, JM S. told me he was headed to Philadelphia Runner to get an evaluation, I could not get the idea of getting one myself out of my head! I had some free time on a Friday afternoon and checked online to see if I could schedule an appointment in advance. Luckily, I could! I made my appointment for 1:30 PM and arrived 15 minutes early, because, anxiety. I was immediately greeted by the friendly staff. Elle helped me with my appointment and was so incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. She evaluated my size, how I walked, asked if I was training for anything and then suggested a stability sneaker. Turns out I had been wearing the wrong size for... my whole life. Elle recommended three different brands and specific shoes within those brands. She brought a bunch for me to try on and of course I was stuck between two options. She let me know that I could try a pair and that if they didn't work for me, they have a 60 day return window. I decided to go for the more fashionable shoe because I couldn't resist. I absolutely love them! I also grabbed a few pair of socks and they are my new favorites! Love that they had a buy 3 get one free deal. This morning I did my first workout class in my new shoes and so far, so good! I am glad to have had Elle's help and expertise in making the selection. read more

I got a call about my order from a nice human (yeah!) who wanted to confirm the delivery address. We had a good chat! I told him he has the very last hat of this kind that I was looking for. Box arrived with some nice hand written holiday wishes, outside and in! Cannot recommend them enough! This is how it should be, well done! read more

Philadelphia Runner - Shoe Stores Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Great selection and a staff that knows running and runners. Far better than a generic sporting goods or sneaker store for all your running gear. read more

I'm not a runner, but I have lots of foot problems. They have a great selection and very knowledgeable staff that help you get the right shoes for YOUR feet. Most shoe shops don't have wide widths or staff that have a basic understanding of the mechanics of feet. If you care about your feet and getting good shoes that support them, shop here. read more

I love it when things go to plan and end without any BS. I had my new sneakers at Philadelphia Runner within 15 minutes. Staff Gene introduced himself, and I told him what I needed. Had a recent foot injury, will probably have to get an orthotic, was told by the doctor that I needed a non-flexible shoe, and that I like to do Crossfit and walk, not run. Gene immediately said I needed a neutral shoe with enough cushion. He also saw that my Nikes were pretty much dead. Gene suggested a better seller they had, Hoka, and said this would best suit my needs. He said he did not need to evaluate my gate on their machine because that is mostly to tell if I needed a neutral or different type of shoe. Since my needs were already spelled out, it was easy for him to point me in the right direction. Gene measured each of my feet, and got two possible sizes. Once I stood up in the right ones, I almost fell over because these make you stand straighter than you may expect. But, Gene warned me of this. I walked the shoes right out of the store...after paying for them, of course. Excellent help, higher prices than I want to pay, but I know I have the right sneakers. Thanks, Gene! read more

Philadelphia Runner - My new Hoka sneakers! - Shoe Stores Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I have a foot injury due to over-walking in my bare feet, and because my feet turn inward. Sarah, who helped me out in the store, analyzed my gait and measured my feet. She spent time trying to find the most comfortable shoes based upon her analysis. I found sneakers that make my feet feel so much better. I will return again in the future, because Sarah was so knowledgable and friendly. read more

Philadelphia Runner - Shoe Stores Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Love coming here for new running or walking shoes. Upon walking in there is often someone ready to assist you immediately, and if not, someone will be with you soon. The staff are knowledgeable and having your foot strike looked at is a great way to ensure the best shoes. This is THE place to come for runners in the Philadelphia area. read more

Fantastic customer service and return policy! Eamon and Annika's product knowledge and shoe fitting were top notch!

Employees are very knowledgeable. Most are runners themselves and can be of assistance in picking out the correct shoe for your activity.

I'd like to update my review to 5 stars! I'm so glad that Philadelphia Runner has reopened their business at this bright, cheerful and modern new location right on Walnut Street, perfect location! So glad that they're up and running They were definitely missed during the pandemic and I'm really happy that they relocated to this location. I desperately needed new sneakers! I tend to go through sneakers quickly with all of the wear and tear that I give them! I was a huge fan of the New Balance 880's, but I haven't been as happy with the new version of this shoe because of different foam. So, Kane and Breandan were incredibly helpful! I tried on multiple shoes!! I greatly appreciate their patience! I did like the Brooks Ghost, but I ultimately decided on the Hoka Clifton! My first pair of Hoka's! They're good for wider feet, like mine, and they have enough room to allow an orthopedic insert, such as my custom orthotic to fit in easily. I greatly appreciate their patience with me because of trying on multiple shoes, putting shoes aside for me, even when I didn't ask, how kind! They also have a lot of knowledge of the various types of sneakers! I appreciate the information on their orthotic inserts. I may want to check out their sock collection. They do offer recycling for old sneakers too! They made an exchange very easy. Glad they're back in Center City! read more

I was so happy to see Philadelphia Runner bounce back from 2020! They are in a beautiful new space on Walnut, providing the same excellent service. This was my first visit since the pandemic after having run my old shoes into the ground and then some. They analyzed my stride on a tread mill and let me try out shoes on the same. I have wide feet and super high arches and often struggle to find shoes that fit. Not once did I feel self-conscious about this and I received incredible individualized attention, taking me through a wide, varied selection without a hint of impatience. I'm excited to be out enjoying the fall weather in my new running shoes and am more relaxed pushing my aging joints knowing I am wearing shoes that should support me through many miles to come. read more

Philadelphia Runner is everything this great running city needs in a running shop. The staff is knowledgeable of the human body, running and the products. They have many products and many brands. My favorite thing is their support of the local running community. They offer weekly group runs, various special group run events, host bib pickups, support races and are just overall awesome. It's tempting to find the products cheaper online, but they do offer coupons surrounding races/in race packets. Being able to experience their customer service and support a local business is priceless. read more

I am not a runner and I have very difficult feet but the Philadelphia Runner is the FIRST and only store I will go for sneakers. Great selection for men and women and a very knowledgeable staff to help you find the perfect shoes, even if they gave to order for you. read more

This place is great! It's in an awesome location and the people who work here are so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. They have a ton of shoes, clothing, nutritional items, and gear and the staff are really good at surfacing the right product based on what you tell them you need. Highly recommend! read more

I went in here (walnut location at 5 pm) today for the first time as I was finishing up a run and wanted to look around. No one welcomed me, and I had to get someone's attention (even though there were four people working and only two people in the store besides me). The store was out of every t-shirt and sweatshirt that had Philadelphia Runner and was a large. Isn't this the most common size? Didn't really see any mediums either. The staff looked for one size for me and just said "sorry this is what we've got." I would've bought two t-shirts, a sweatshirt, and a hat. Instead, I just left. Also, there was a person locking the door after everyone, so multiple people coming in thought the store was closed. I don't know if they've had issues with security or what... Having worked in retail for ~7 years in the past, this was a really piss poor experience. If I was the manager, I would seriously consider coaching this staff better or updating your inventory. Probably won't be going back. This is a real bummer as I recently relocated here and was hoping to have a good experience as I'd followed the store on social media. ***Update*** The store manager reached out to me and apologized for the experience. I will plan to try the store out again in the near future. read more

Go to for running gear and apparel as well as supporting a local business. The bonus is that they are active in the local running community and all their stores host group runs. The staff is very friendly and always helpful every time even when joining group runs. read more

Racist staff, 1/10 would recommend. I went there during lunch break today, hoping to get a new pair of shoes. The sales assistant, a white dude, was EXTREMELY rude to me. He straight up ignored me many times when I tried to talk to him, and seemed VERY reluctant when I called for his help. It also took him a very long time to get the shoes for me, and he got the wrong shoes! He acted the exact opposite to the other customer, who is white. I'm Asian, for the context. Thank you so much Brad/Chad or whatever your name is, your blatant racism ruined my day. read more

I was in need of specific shoes with wide widths and Philadelphia runner was able to special order shoes for me to try on. This way I could try them on before purchasing. Often I run over to the store if I need something last minute. Sometimes they hold running events from the store and the people there are very welcoming and friendly. Thank you read more

Came here to buy a new pair of running sneakers. Staff is alert and attentive and willing to help customers. They took the time to fit me in a pair of sneakers that matched my running style and stride and helped to measure the perfect fit. read more

The Philadelphia Runner is the premiere specialty running store in all of Philadelphia. I made a point to quickly stop in this store to check things out before hastily hitting up the 2013 Philadelphia Marathon expo at the Pennsylvania Convention center to pick up my runners packet. With that in mind, the Philadelphia Runner also had a spot at the Philadelphia marathon expo, but it was cool also to check out their store. What a amazing assortment of shoes and accessories for the beginning runner and race enthusiast alike! I think I had a fun time here and at their booth at the Philadelphia marathon. This particular Philadelphia Runner is located at Sansom street in city center Philadelphia, near City Hall and much of the city's sights and attractions. I needed a new pair of running shoes, since my current pair was showing its age and usage. With at least 12 marathons on it already, it was time to make the transition into a new pair of shoes. I wanted to shop around and since I was in town for the 2013 Philadelphia marathon, I would come and check things out here. The staff here knows shoes and have an excellent selection to choose from. While the prices here is normal for the industry, you can't beat advice from runners who work in the industry giving you advice. That's how I got started and am continuing to learn how running is evolving - even after 60 or so marathons under my belt. I'm used to wearing the Saucony Ride 4's, so I was introduced to the updated version called the Ride 6's. I also was recommended some other neutral cushioned shoes for my options and I just preferred to stick to my own brand and shoe that I am used to running marathons and half marathons with. Saucony is my brand of choice. After trying them on and getting a good feel for them, I decided on purchasing the shoes and felt good about my purchase. The advice I have been given will go along way in helping me select shoes in the future. The service here is really good and they don't pressure you to buy if you don't want to. The overall experience has been a good and positive one. Not only do I have new trainers to run in, but the prices were pretty good, although I wished it was priced less. Supporting your local running store is great if you are a runner. Unless you know what you are doing at Sports Authority and other big box stores, best bet is to come to The Philadelphia Runner if you are in Philadelphia and grab a pair of shoes. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned veteran of marathons, you can get your feet wet with sound training and shoe advice from the experts. I'm happy with my purchase. Run long and run happy! Support local! A+ read more

As much as I love and support local shops, Philadelphia Runner was unable to produce the level of customer service and running support that I had come to expect from a running store. I got a $15 coupon after completing the philly 10k race and I figured it was the appropriate time to retire my leaky, broken sneakers. However, when I arrived, the staff seemed very frazzled, no one offered to help me after I was just awkwardly walking around. When I finally had help, the person really didn't ask how I run, check my gait, but just offered two shoes on sale, which I learned afterward, weren't actually on sale. When I finally found a shoe that I liked, the same staff charged me the wrong price and I had to correct him multiple times. If Philadelphia Runner is to be a competitive shoe store, they need to up their game and their customer service. I'd be happy to check this place again when their business model improves. read more

I by no means am a serious runner, I am a former athlete who attempts to stay in some kind of shape. So needless to say I was slightly intimidated walking into the store amongst all of the marathoners and people who can probably run faster than the speed of light for all I know. I, of course being the pain in the ass that I am (half kidding), walked in 15 minutes before closing time hoping to get new running sneakers. Now, if I were one of their employees I wouldn't be too jazzed about seeing anyone walk in so close to when they lock up. However, right away I was assisted and very happily might I add. The employee that helped me was great and listened to my likes and dislikes with past shoes and gave me a recommendation on a few pairs to try. First pair I tried on were right on the money. My entire shopping trip took me less than 10 minutes. I was astonished that after being to multiple other stores looking for shoes, they found me exactly what I was looking for so quickly and easily (in a GORGEOUS shoe might I add). Love this store. Maybe these shoes will inspire me to join in on one of their running clubs and become a running machine just like them! (Let's hope so) Thanks Philadelphia Runner! You guys are great! read more

Philadelphia Runner - Love this purchase! - Shoe Stores Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Everyone was SO helpful and kind and patient! I ended up getting the comfiest shoes. 10/10 customer service!!

I went because I've had friends highly recommend here (and I had a gift card). I walked in and specifically said "I'd like to be fitted for a new pair of shoes because I think I might be wearing the wrong size". The girl asked a couple basic questions and then just brought out three pairs in my size and silently watched me try them on. No measuring of my feet happened at all. Multiple customers around me were having their measurements taken and being asked to run on the treadmill so the right shoes could be picked for them. I'm not sure why I wasn't offered that even after asking for a fitting. At one point, I thought a shoe I had on was too big and said so out loud while feeling the gap in the front of the shoe and she just stared at me silently. I had to ask her what she thought and even then she didn't feel my foot/shoe, just said a small gap is fine. I should've left and came back but I had already gone out of my way to go. If I didn't have a gift card, there's no way I would've bought shoes from them. I might as well have ordered them online because I got zero guidance or help there. If you want to be fitted for a shoe, i have no advice for you because saying "i want to be fitted for a shoe" doesn't get you much here! read more

So this experience is from 2014, BUT as I am finally replacing my hella old trainers, I am reflecting on what a damn good experience it was shopping here. Once upon a time, in a Kingdom of West Philadelphia, a princess set out to run a marathon. A novice runner, she didnt really know wtf she was doing, but that didn't stop her. A poor college princess she was, and her father took pity on her and lent her his credit card to purchase proper trainers, er, glass slippers for her endeavours. She stumbled into the Philadelphia Runner, where she was treated like the loyalty she was. They gave her dedicated attention, including watching her run on camera, to ensure her knees, ankles, legs, and of course tootsies would be comfy and THRIVE in her trainers. Par for the course, the modest princess fell in love with the most expensive pair she tried (Sorry, Dad), but those sneaks lasted her through her marathon training, across the finish line, and for 3 after, when she would sporadically have the urge to exercise. read more

I stopped in here this afternoon and had a great experience going through the analytics of looking at how my feet hit the ground and what types of shoes would be best for the pain that I was experiencing. We tried 3 different brands and types and I was able to test them out running in store and ended up buying what I hope is going to make this my best Broad Street yet! Highly recommend if you are in the market for new shoes! read more

Staff here are extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. I bought shoes that were actually suited to my specific feet and running patterns for the first time here, helping to prevent injury in my marathon training. Moreover, the real reason PR gets 5 stars is its incredible engagement with and support of the running community here in Philly. They host many free or low-cost running/fitness events throughout the year, and serve as a central hub for all things running. ("Like" them on Facebook to stay informed about the events!) read more

Selections for BIG boys! 6'3" 245lbs. 46yrs. Size 14 - plenty of options #PhiladelphiaRunner #Philly read more

See all

Originally bought running shoes (a pair of Brooks) here 7 years ago. first pair of sneaks in many years that didnt give me shin splints and had even visited one other running specialty store... after 7 years of running six-to-eight slow ass 10-minute miles, my Brooks finally were done ... went back in with a pic. they didnt have the shoe from 7 yrs ago, let me try on a few other options. but then said ¨you know, you can probably find something very similar to what you had online - think they are even 20% off right now too on the Brooks website.¨ and ¨if you have a shoe you know like, dont risk running in something new.¨ .. so the store lost a potential sale, as I was able to find the sneaker online. but I greatly appreciated their honesty and will definitely return in the future read more