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A Runner's Circle

4.5 star rating
based on 29 reviews

Categories: Sports Wear, Shoe Stores  [Edit]

3216 Los Feliz Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90039
(323) 661-8971
20% OFF for Yelpers Only!

Hurry and get your 20% exclusive discount on everything we have in the store. Offer expires November 26, 2009!

Announced 17 hours ago
 
Hours:

Mon-Fri. 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Price Range:
$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Wheelchair Accessible:
No

29 reviews for A Runner's Circle

Review Highlights   

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"Will definitely recommend people to go there for running shoes." (in 13 reviews)
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"again, the staff was very knowledgeable and helpful." (in 8 reviews)
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"The staff here are friendly and know their shoes." (in 10 reviews)
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Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites'
Photo of Jenn L.

 

26

104

Jenn L.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
6/30/2009

Nina (the prev reviewer)  was right about the HOT asian guy Haha!  

I was helped by "hottie" - who watched the way I walked and recommended the proper shoes for me. I ended up buying a pair of Saucony running shoes, and I LOVE them. They are super comfortable. I wish I knew about the 10% coupon off their website, but they're so helpful and friendly at the store (even let me run outside in the shoes to test them) so I don't mind supporting them, although I could have saved about $15 buying off zappos.  

Will definitely recommend people to go there for running shoes.

Also, they hold 3-5 mile runs every Thursday at 6pm.

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Photo of Paul G.

 

10

19

Paul G.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
6/28/2009

Great place to come in and get running shoes, the folks here are awesome and have a fantastic selection. On Thursdays they host evening runs through Griffith Park (something like a 5 or 6 mile loop) and sponsor groups to participate in every major run in LA.

I came here after my feet were starting to cramp a bit after doing longer distances, and after getting fitted for new shoes I realized that they just saved me from serious foot injury, for which I have much thanks to give them!

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Photo of Jasmine L.

Elite '09

13

198

Jasmine L.

Astoria, NY

4 star rating
5/31/2009

one of the most important things about a running store is to have knowledgeable staff - and this place has it.

before you try on sneakers, the staff will assess / analyze your stride. once they do this, they'll talk to you about your stride and bring you sneakers that would help you perform your best.

after trying on 5 pairs of sneakers we had made our choice, and then it was on to accessories - water belts to be specific. again, the staff was very knowledgeable and helpful.

this running store is definitely the place to go for your next pair of running sneakers.

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Photo of Jaquisha A.

 

2

2

Jaquisha A.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
9/28/2009

Every time I've been here Abel has helped me.  He's a little quiet but suuper nice and he knows what he's doing.  I bought my first pair of "serious" running shoes here and he helped me pick out a pair of shoes based on how I walk.  If you've never done this before, DO IT!  It's incredible what a difference it makes when you get the right shoes; less injury, more endurance, more fun!

Since then, I've started training for the 2010 LA marathon so I've increased miles per week and have been having some foot problems (numb toes) as a result (thanks for the explanation Abel!).  It was time to get a new pair so I told him about my foot problem and he set me up with a new pair of shoes that don't cause any more problems!

If you're new to running you might think they are on the expensive side ($80-$100 for shoes, which is average) but you can't put a price on a good pair of shoes AND you can get some really good running advice if you just ask.

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Photo of Tatertots Rock X.

 

181

199

Tatertots Rock X.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
Updated - 5/8/2009

These guys just keep making me happy over and over again!!!

I keep sending clients to them and hear nothing but great things when they come back to me with their snazzy new shoes that fit them so well!!!

What I also love is that I found them on Facebook  http://www.facebook.co... and since then I keep getting updates about sales and friggin' awesome events!

They support their employees at all of their running events and the store seems to volunteer at almost every cool organized run around town...they flawlessly helped with bag-check for the City of Angles Half Marathon!

They also organize local runs!

So, in a net shell, even if you don't need a new pair of shoes, socks, or anything else that will make you look snazzy while you sweat, you can find all kinds of great events via A Runners Circle!

Check em out!!!

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    10/31/2008

    This place is great.
    Great shoe selection (even though I couldn't find something for my funny little… Read more »

Photo of Normna J.

 

5

17

Normna J.

Venice, CA

4 star rating
4/7/2009

What's there to say?

The owner is amazing - watches you walk several times to decide what kind of shoe you need.

He only stocks the top 5 brands, but they are ALL YOU NEED.

Thursday night fun runs = make new friends and run with the old:)

And...my new shoes feel like little Asic clouds on my feet!

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Photo of Lili C.

 

27

117

Lili C.

Los Angeles, CA

3 star rating
2/21/2009

I was whining to myself just 2 days ago that I need a new pair of running shoes (the MBTs are falling apart) and a friend suggested that I get myself properly fitted at a running shoe store. Do I have "Supination" (feet roll outward) or "Pronation" (feet roll inward)? Before today I had never even heard of these terms before. And then this morning, while breakfasting at  my local EATS cafe, I noticed  A RUNNER'S CIRCLE across the street.  What a coincidence, what perfect timing. I took this as a sign.

According to the Sales Assistant, who was a very knowledgeable and patient guy, I have "overpronation" - my feet roll inwards, and he selected 4 pairs of shoes for me to try on all of which were designed for overpronaters.

It was hard to choose because I find all running shoes to be quite hideous in general. And the range here was quite small. Good brands, affordable prices, and comfortable shoes, yes, but still a limited selection.

It took me a long time to choose because my ability to judge comfort and arch support was always clouded by how hideous the shoes looked.

I finally settled on the pair that was the most comfortable and the least hideous.

I think I should've visited  a bigger store because I am more of a fashion snob than I am a serious runner. (I don't even like running.) But to the hardcore runner, I would definitely recommend A RUNNER'S CIRCLE. The people here know their stuff and are really nice.

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Photo of Ed C.

Elite '09

692

235

Ed C.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
1/27/2009

There's a saying that goes: "You don't have to outrun the bear, you just have to outrun everyone else being chased by the bear."

Thanks to A Runner's Circle's helpful sales person (who took the time to evaluate Edgar's gait) and wide selection of shoes (to accomodate Edgar's pronated feet), Edgar can now probably outrun a bunch of people.

Or at least by the time the bear catches up to Edgar, Edgar will be all sweaty and gross and quite unappetizing to the bear.

And to those who CAN OUTRUN Edgar, Edgar will just have to trip them. Cause Edgar's gangster like that.

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Photo of Remy O.

Elite '09

43

115

Remy O.

Hollywood, CA

5 star rating
3/5/2009

Always overrunning the mileage on my shoes will I'm sure catch up with me one day. Runner's Circle was there to pick up the premium I pay to do my normal last-minute thing when I finally decide that another run in my old pair will result in injury.

You can definitely get shoes cheaper online, but no website will be able to watch you walk/run and give you advice. The shop owner is so friendly and exuberant about running. He recommended a water bottle to me that has revolutionized drinking and running/biking for me - the Ultimate Direction line of water bottles. They have a nipple-like mouthpiece so I look like a freeky-deeky, but I suck down much less air and spill less.

They also have a 5:30pm Thursday meet-up for a jog through Griffith if you're so inclined.

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Photo of Gavril L.

Elite '09

272

69

Gavril L.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
1/22/2009

*******************WARNING GROSS TOPIC***************************

   It's my feet

 They are not well...it is not my fault, it is those dam shoes! I had bought a pair of Nike running shoes a while back and I had replaced with the new Nike shock ride 2..that is when the trouble started...a bought them at foot locker. I mean I can pick out running shoes right?

Apparently not....my toes have become black and blue lately, skin coming off; bloody cuticles....the nail could come off at any time!!! (I did warn you)

A normal person would have replaced their shoes right away but NO I had to wait until my coach would not let me train till I did something about it.

So I checked on Yelp and in my hood was A Runners Circle, great reviews and my running friend said she liked the place.

So when I arrived Joe was juggling 3 different customers, from pro marathoners to old guys who are just going for a walk. He treated everyone with great care and professionalism and spent a lot of time checking everyone gate and arch to get them just the right fit. We got talking and had a great time; Joe is wonderful animated person who really took the time to get me into pair of shoes that would solve my gross toe issue and make me happy. Once we found the 2 or 3 top contenders he had me run down the block with one on each foot to compare. I ended up with a pair of Brooks, fantastically comfortable shoes; he also taught me advanced lacing technique to prevent toe damage. I found it comforting that as he was telling me that Brooks where his favorite shoes I could see he was wearing a pair.

A Runners Circle is a great place for any type of runner (or walker) they have great products and the personal touch puts them light years ahead of standard shoe stores.

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Photo of Mark F.

 

0

3

Mark F.

Los Angeles, CA

2 star rating
9/5/2009

Went in for a pair of new trainers about 2 weeks ago, and my experience inspired me to create a Yelp account just so I could review this place. I walked in, went over to the shoe section, and asked a girl who wasn't helping anyone if I could try on some shoes. Normally running stores recommend shoes to you, but she was silent and waited for me to tell her which pair I was interested in. She found my size and brought them back for me, and then seemed annoyed when I asked if I could try a half-size larger. I spent a good fifteen minutes trying to decide on a pair with no useful help from her; actually, it felt like she wished she were somewhere else. I was shocked by how poor and insensitive her service was; maybe she just didn't like me? Regardless, I probably won't be back.

The one positive thing I experienced (hence 2 stars instead of 1) was my interaction with the owner. I think he could tell what was going on, so he thoughtfully came over to me just to pleasantly chat about running. I ended up buying a pair of shoes because he was so kind, but overall the experience was a big disappointment.

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Photo of Mike B.

 

2

83

Mike B.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
10/10/2009

Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Great selection, and great prices!

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Photo of Michael K.

 

3

14

Michael K.

North Hills, CA

5 star rating
5/19/2009

This is the only store I buy my running shoes.  I've known Joe (owner) since his days at Top to Top in Marina del Rey.  He's very helpful and extremely knowledgeable about shoes and running.  Having completed dozens of marathons and couple of Ironmans, I have a particular model I always get.  But I'm always willing to try out new models and can always depend on Joe to point me the right direction.

Sure, I can go to local shop or order online, but I rather drive out of my way to shop here.  I live in the valley and have visited almost every running store in greater LA, including Phidippides.  I know many folks swear by Phidippides, but it just didn't do it for me.  It lacked the "I really care about how much you enjoy running - not so much the shoes" feel.

The prices at ARC is competitive and rest of the staff is terrific.  Yes, the shop is a bit small, but consider it as "intimate" and you'll be fine.  If you're new to running, then this is the place to start.

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Photo of Jeremiah R.

 

4

6

Jeremiah R.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
5/13/2009

Dude, this place is amazing! Everyone at the store is obviously runners, so they know what they're talking about. They've got everything you need for distance running, so you never need to go to more than one place. The prices seem high but actually aren't. Everything is the same price as major outlet stores.

Plus, the store helps sponsor weekend running groups and has all the information for upcoming events. After my first time here, I knew I wouldn't go to another store again.

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Photo of Elaine M.

 

28

4

Elaine M.

Glendale, CA

5 star rating
5/2/2009

If your knees or ankles or hips or feet hurt during or after a run, it's probably because you have the wrong shoes on!

The staff at A Runner's Circle will always take their time to help you find the exact right shoe.  First they look at your feet and how you stand & walk.  After determining the type of shoe you need, they will patiently let you try on pair after pair until you find the one.

No sales pitch.  Just good, caring service.

I also love that when I'm running in Griffith Park on the weekend, they have a water & refreshment booth set up for all of us runners!  Now, that's service to the running community!

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Photo of Nina N.

 

37

46

Nina N.

Burbank, CA

5 star rating
5/11/2009

Thanks to the HOT asian guy who helped me out, I have never felt better while running or working out! He watched me walk and told me I needed extra support for my inner soles. He simplified my shoe options by showing me just two good pairs, and I bought the first ones he presented. And when I went back a day later, he honestly cared about why I didn't seem happy with my shoes. He suggested that I wear them a little longer to break them in, and he was right! Coming back soon fo sho

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Photo of Shannon M.

 

13

49

Shannon M.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
1/27/2009

I was desperately in need of a new pair of running shoes, since I realized it had been way too long since I bought a new pair - and suspected that's why my back was bothering me.  Instead of going to the usual big chain (ie Lady's Foot Locker) - which I have nothing against btw - I decided to support my local running store.  And I'm so glad I did.  Not that I had bad service that last time I went to the mall, but at Runner's Circle I got really personalized service.  They had me try on several pairs and walk for them so they could see the fit, whether I had pronated feet, etc.  They also didn't steer me towards the most expensive pair.

Yeah, it was time consuming but I also knew the next time I hit the pavement I probably wouldn't be in pain.  As it was...I ended up with Asics that I know and love so well, and indeed my back no longer bothers me whether I walk, jog or run.  Did I mention too that besides being knowledgeable about shoes, they are just really nice people?!?

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Photo of Rochelle G.

 

13

37

Rochelle G.

Studio City, CA

5 star rating
6/20/2009

This place is great.  I've been wanting to come here ever since I read all the great reviews from my fellow yelpers and I finally got there today.   Went to get my nails done, but the place was packed and they told me to come back in 1/2 an hour.  Since I was already on the east side, I live in Mid-Wilshire, I decided finally go to A Runner's Circle and get a professional opinion on running shoes.  This place is small and only has a limited variety but all of there shoes are the best.  I was helped by Able, who was very friendly, analyzed my walk and recommended 3 different shoes.  I tried on the first pair and they felt like a dream, he even told me to go outside and take a test run.  How awesome is that!  I love the shoes and I am definitely going back tomorrow(with my husband who promised to buy me running shoes as part of bday present) to buy them.

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Photo of Arin N.

 

20

139

Arin N.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
5/19/2008

The best shoe store in LA hands down.

I used to go here when I was a competitive runner and after a six year absence decided to get back into running full force. I stopped by A Runner's Circle and was surprised to find they still had my measurements on file. AFTER SIX FREAKING YEARS - how amazing is that. I got my custom fit shoes and now all I need to do is get off the couch and stop being lazy.

The guys who work here are all competitive runners so they know what they are talking about and overall extremely friendly. They don't talk down to you and you can even ask them about great races to enter or places to workout.

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Photo of Moye I.

Elite '09

106

152

Moye I.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
3/31/2008

Listen.

Believe it or not, I have started exercising. And by exercising, I mean running. And by running, I mean occasionally running around the block but mostly taking breaks and walking and generally, trying to breathe.

But what do you need when you start "running"? Running SHOES!

I first noticed A Runner's Circle last summer when I happened to park outside before a bike ride (that's really oxymoronic, isn't it? Parking a car to ride your bike?) but we finally had an opportunity to go inside when my dear boo wanted a new pair of shoes.

Stepping inside this store is like stepping inside a small but very professional and nice-without-the-BS Footlocker, except it's all about running. My boyfriend was able to get his feet analyzed by the staff to help determine the best shoe type, etc. Plus, the staff also shared stories about how they train for races, running exercises in general and basically made me feel fat. Thanks.

Anyway, I loved it. They're not intimidating with their products, atmosphere or knowledge or prices. If you're interested in learning how to run, definitely stop by here!!

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Photo of Cindy H.

 

45

234

Cindy H.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
3/26/2009

I have a theory that running stores purposely choose locations with impossible parking, to force you to visit on foot instead of driving. A Runner's Circle is no exception. The store looks tiny from the opening, but it goes in fairly deep and they've used every inch of space from floor to ceiling to stock every kind of using running doodad you can possibly want. The depth of selection here is better and more carefully thought out than most internet stores, and prices are reasonable. The staff is so friendly and helpful you forget they are all super athletes.

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Photo of Jordan K.

 

15

29

Jordan K.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
5/26/2008

Marry feet to shoe
like podiatrist rabbi.
My mile faster.

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Photo of Jayme D.

 

5

28

Jayme D.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
4/11/2008

The staff here are friendly and know their shoes! They will measure your feet, assess your gait, etc.  They brought me an array of shoes and encouraged me to try on each pair and run up the block in them to make sure they felt good.

Another strength is that they recycle your old running shoes for you if you like.

They often have coupons for discounts on their website.

My feet were a little sore at first, and I had doubts about the sizing for a day or two, but the shoes quickly broke in, and I regret doubting the salesperson as they did find me the perfect fit. I would definitely return to this store!

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Photo of Jimmy C.

 

1

37

Jimmy C.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
3/8/2009

A bit small but a very good running store.  The staff provides excellent customer service and they help you pic the right shoe for you.  In addition, they carry multiple brands of running shoes.  I recommend this store to anyone looking for a good running shoe store.

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Photo of Adrian R.

 

5

6

Adrian R.

El Segundo, CA

4 star rating
12/22/2008

Definitely one of the better running stores to visit.

I normally don't buy running shoes in store anymore because I get my shoes online from Brooks.  However, when it comes to getting fitted, I have to go in store.  That's where A Runner's Circle comes in.  The very first time I walked into the store, I honestly wasn't that much of a fan.  The store is tiny and I just feel a little claustrophobic.  But what the store lacks in size, it makes up for in customer service and selection.  The very knowledgeable staff approaches you from the moment you walk into the store and gives you answers to any of the questions that you might have.  

In terms of getting fitted for shoes, the helpful staff begins your process by assessing the way you walk or even your stride during a run.  Additionally, they look at whether you have normal, flat, or high arched feet.  What would be nice is if they also examined whether one is a neutral, over, or under pronator.  However, I don't think the store is equipped to give that assessment.  Anyways, all these factors go into determining the best running shoe for the customer.  

Additionally, the store holds weekly group runs on Thursdays at 6:30pm which is definitely a great way for runners of different levels to meet up and run together.  A sports drink of some sort is usually provided during these group runs.  

All in all, it is a very well run store with a very knowledgeable staff who have a passion for running.  If you are a seasoned runner, you will not go wrong by visiting this store.  If you are someone who is just starting out and has no idea where to go for shoes, more than likely, A Runner's Circle is and will probably be your one stop shop for all things running!

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Photo of Tricia D.

 

2

1

Tricia D.

CA

5 star rating
7/11/2008

The knowledgeable and uber friendly staff not only help to create a wonderful running experience for each person individually, they create a wonderful experience right there in the store.  Come to a Thursday night fun run at 6:30pm and find out for yourself just how great this circle is!

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Photo of dave h.

 

1

3

dave h.

Studio City, CA

5 star rating
7/16/2008

I went this morning for a new pair of running shoes. The woman who waited on me was super-knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. She analyzed my walk and my old shoes, and recommended several pairs to get me to the next level. Great store. Thank you!

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Photo of John I.

 

0

9

John I.

Reseda, CA

5 star rating
3/5/2008

Nothing compares to expert advice and great selection, and these guys are incomparable.  I never thought that the right pair of running shoes would make a world of difference.  Thank you for that perfect pair of shoes!  Now I can enjoy running again.

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Photo of Joel G.

 

28

48

Joel G.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
1/6/2008

I just took up running after many years of not having done so. I ran the City of Angles 1/2 Marathon and in doing so became familiar with this runner's retail store. I haven't been in yet but met one of the  employees at a booth they hosted for participants to the race. The person I met was extremely knowledgeable and even asked me to run around so she could analyze my gait and stride. Rather then make a quick sale, she suggested I come to the store and and take advantage of the selection offered to find the best shoe specific to my running form. She also gave me a coupon for 10% off which any one can print from there website. Now it's my word for you to use if you're interested in pounding the pavement in comfort.

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