Vancouver athletic shops for stylish running apparel
For Vancouverites, running is more than just exercise; it’s a lifestyle. And if you’re going to work up a sweat sprinting along the Seawall or in Stanley Park, you might as well do it in style. From patterned leggings to weatherproof windbreakers to moisture-wicking undergarments, we’ve tracked down some of the city’s best athletic shops where you can get kitted out before your next 10k.
Vancouver Running Co Inc
2-1886 1st Ave W, Vancouver BC V6J 1G5Founded by Vancouver natives Rob and Becky Smith, this beautiful Kitsilano running boutique feels more like a modern art gallery than a sportswear store. The stark white interior is the perfect canvas for the curated selection of colourful apparel, high-end shoes, and top-of-the-line electronics. But don’t be fooled by the shop’s hip aesthetic, these running pros are all about performance. The shop is stocked with tops, bottoms, headwear, socks and plenty of training accessories designed to keep you cool and comfortable on even your most challenging tempo runs. VRC also offers weekly group runs and yoga sessions.
Forerunners
3504 4th Ave W, Vancouver BC V6R 1N8Whether you’re lacing up for the first time, trying to beat a PB or training for your next ultra marathon, you’ll find everything you need to kit yourself out from head to toe at this Vancouver running shop with locations in Kitsilano and North Van. All of the staff are running professionals and really know their stuff when it comes to finding the right fit for your feet. You’ll also find technical apparel from leading brands like Asics, Nike, Saucony and Sugoi. Stock up here on GPS watches, heart rate monitors, nutritional supplements and training guides.
Distance Runwear
4800 Main St, Vancouver BC V5V 3R8This specialty shop in Riley Park carries performance-focused apparel, shoes and accessories for both road and trail running. Owner Dave Cressman has been long distance running since he was 11 and is a well-known name in the local running community. Rather than offering apparel from big-name athletic brands, Dave has curated a unique collection that favours independent labels and emerging designers. You’ll find apparel from Arc’Teryx, Dynafit, Ibex and Newline made with finely crafted functional, lightweight fabrics and run-specific fits. Distance Runwear is also one of the only spots in Vancouver to find womenswear from award-winning Seattle-based brand Oiselle.
Rackets & Runners
3880 Oak St, Vancouver BC V6H 2M5True to its name, this Shaughnessy athletic shop has everything budding tennis and track stars need to excel, whether it’s on the court or on the pavement. The family-owned store has been in business since 1978 and the experienced staff are incredibly knowledgeable when it comes to fitting running shoes and stringing rackets. Shelves are stocked with running and compression apparel from Sugoi, Icebreaker, Stormtech, Adidas, Under Armour, Russell Athletic and many more established athletic brands. Invest in technical running socks (the shop carries Wright Sock, Balega, Thorlo and more) to help prevent blisters while training for your next race.
The Run Inn
2331 41st Ave W, Vancouver BC V6M 2A3Want to brighten up your running wardrobe with a polka-dot dry-fit sports bra or a pair of neon short shorts? This Kerrisdale running shop puts the fun in function with its comprehensive selection of fashionable athletic gear for men and women. You’ll be inspired to hit the trails in outrageous patterned running tights from New Balance, Sugoi and Nike. The community-focused shop also hosts free training bootcamps and running clinics where you can show off your outfit, make new friends and improve your stride.
Running Room
103-679 Denman St, Vancouver BC V6G 2L3It might be North America’s largest running retailer, but each individual Running Room fosters a sense of local community. If you’re new to the sport, this is a great place to start. Ask for a personalized run analysis to determine what shoe is right for you; then sign up for the progressive learn-to-run clinics to get training in a supportive and friendly group. When it comes to fitness fashions, men and women can shop for the latest technical clothing and electronics from big name athletic brands (Asics, Brooks, New Balance, Saucony) as well as The Running Room’s own in-house label.
LadySport
3545 4th Ave W, Vancouver BC V6R 1N9As the name suggests, this is one of Vancouver’s preeminent shops for athletic wear for women and will have you covered for a wide range of sweaty pursuits. The inclusive product line includes footwear, apparel and accessories designed for women of different shapes, sizes and ages. You’ll find tops, bottoms, outerwear and undergarments from Champion, The North Face, Sugoi, Under Armour, Lolë, Columbia and other leading athletic brands. Need a little extra support? The solid collection of sports bras (sizes range from 32A to 44E) will help keep your girls locked down during those hilly trail runs through Stanley Park.
One Tooth Fashion Inc
707 Broadway W, Vancouver BC V5Z 1J5This value-focused Vancouver active wear company offers a good selection of reasonably priced pants, capris, tops, hoodies and stretchy headbands in a various different cuts and colours. For running, we love the high-rise tights made with a quick-drying nylon/spandex fabric blend that’s designed to wick away moisture throughout your workout. The performance-focused pants also feature flat-lock seams to minimize chafing and a handy zip pocket for storage. Top off your outfit with a mesh jacket in the colder months: the long-sleeved, breathable zip-ups have clean-cut thumbholes and reflective details to keep you safe when running in the dark.
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