MANAYUNK

By Noel Bartocci

Photography By Alexa Nahas Photography

Since 2004, Philadelphia Runner has established their brand across the Philadelphia area with locations in Center City, Glen Mills, and University City. For the last two years, they’ve also called Manayunk home—specializing in workout apparel for all weather conditions as well as providing the proper footwear for whatever gets you on your feet.

Despite being purveyors of specialty running gear in town, Philadelphia Runner prides themselves on carrying apparel that works for people at any level of physical activity—providing gear that fits their customers’ needs, literally and figuratively, is the goal. A good deal of their stock also blurs the line between comfort and functionality for all seasons. Neil Townsend, the store manager who’s been with the company since 2010, noted the versatility of their stock.

“We sell run specialty, yeah, but our activewear combines lifestyle,” Neil said. Adding his personal enthusiasm for the store’s items, “Listen, I can honestly say that even if I didn’t run, I would shop here. I spend way too much money here!” he laughed.

On top of the fitness and lifestyle clothing, getting sized for the right pair of athletic shoes isn’t just a game-changer for a runner, but the kind of out-of-the-box solution for anyone with an aching back, knees, ankles, or whatever the case may be. The right shoes make all the difference—whether it’s during a 5K or traversing the King of Prussia Mall. Philadelphia Runner offers an interactive shoe sizing and fit process that finds the proper foot support to prevent shin splints from flaring up, and joints from prematurely aching. It’s true—the right shoes really do make that big of a difference.

Our local Philadelphia Runner storefront isn’t just another retailer on Main Street, but also an active participant in the community. Fitness groups meet up twice a week at the shop—Thursday nights starting at the shop and Sunday mornings starting at the Valley Green Inn—to take full advantage of all the great paths and running routes in Manayunk. They’ve even partnered with the hiking group, Chasing Trail, a club focused on literal trailblazing within the safety and shared enjoyment of a group. The frequency of these group runs increase during the spring and closer to the area’s larger races—the Broad Street Run, The Philadelphia Marathon, and the Philly 10K, just to name a few.

“We embrace the non-runner, too,” explained Neil when discussing the future and potential of Philadelphia Runner in Manayunk. “I can see us integrating with other businesses and groups more, combining efforts with our neighbors, and being open to all levels of runners and just active people.”

I can personally attest to this sentiment after taking my dad to be properly sized for shoes at the store this fall. He could only complain about his lower back after extended walks for so long until he decided to be proactive about it. The staff at Philadelphia Runner patiently helped my 65-year-old father with different pairs of sneakers and shoe inserts, in all manners of combinations, until the right ones were found. He still gushes about his special sneakers nearly six months later. That’s just an example of the magic you get when you combine the right product with the right staff.

Many may experience an uneasiness when walking into a specialty or sports apparel store, which can be just as stressful as taking that first fitness class in a room full of professionals. There’s an inherent anxiety in not knowing enough or doing the wrong research, and the only thing that can fill that gap is trust—trust in the store and what they carry. No one wants to invest in an item that won’t help, but may ultimately hurt in the long run.

The knowledgeable staff at Philadelphia Runner not only renders these concerns null, but also take it a step further and encourage a deeper exploration of their offerings by merely inviting you in with open arms. They aren’t concerned with proving their know-how by talking down to you, but figuring out how they can help by simply listening and offering help.

Learn more here.