The 11 Best Online Stores for Runners

Finding the right running gear requires more than walking into any athletic store and picking something off a shelf. Shoes need to match your gait, nutrition products have to agree with your stomach during long efforts, and apparel should hold up through seasons of training. Local shops serve many runners well, but they cannot stock everything. A store in Ohio might carry road running shoes from five brands while missing the trail running options a nearby runner needs. Someone training in rural Montana may not have a specialty running shop within a two hour drive.

Online retailers fill these gaps. They provide access to products that local stores cannot carry, including last season’s shoe models at reduced prices, nutrition brands sold primarily overseas, and ultrarunning gear that smaller shops have no space to display. The stores listed here have built reputations for product selection, return policies, customer support, and pricing that works for runners at all levels. Each store operates differently, and knowing those differences helps you spend money where it makes the most sense for your training and racing.

1. The Feed

The Feed operates as an online marketplace focused on athletes. The store carries products from over 300 brands, including more than 15 exclusive brands not available through other retailers. Product categories include hydration mixes, protein supplements, recovery shakes, energy chews, gels, bars, bottles, and packs.

One feature that separates The Feed from general running stores is the ability to purchase single servings of nutrition products rather than full boxes. Runners testing new gels or chews before a goal race can buy a few individual packets, try them during training, and avoid committing to products that might not work for them.

The Feed offers complimentary nutrition support through its Feed Coaches. Athletes can email the company with information about their sport, training goals, and flavor preferences to receive personalized recommendations. The company states that this service has been refined through feedback from over 200,000 athletes over 8 years.

USA Triathlon announced a partnership with The Feed beginning in 2024. Members receive an $80 credit to TheFeed.com when they join the organization.

Free shipping applies to orders of $49 or more within the contiguous United States. Subscription orders renew with free shipping if the renewal amount reaches $49, otherwise shipping costs $7.95.

2. Running Warehouse

Running Warehouse has operated as a dedicated running retailer for years, and the store maintains a policy structure that removes much of the risk from buying shoes online. The 90 day return window applies to products in new or used condition. Runners can test shoes on roads and trails, decide they do not work, and still return them for store credit at full value. New condition returns qualify for a full refund or exchange.

Orders over $50 ship free within the 48 contiguous states. Overnight shipping costs $14.95 for orders exceeding $75. Every order shipped within the contiguous states includes a prepaid return label, so sending back products costs nothing.

The store carries shoes, apparel, and accessories across major running brands. Inventory tends to include current models alongside previous versions at lower prices. For runners who know what shoe works for them and want to stock up on older models, Running Warehouse often has options that local stores cleared out months ago.

3. Fleet Feet

Fleet Feet has operated since 1976 and became the largest run specialty retailer in the United States following its merger with JackRabbit in December 2021. The company runs physical stores alongside its online operation, and the connection between both gives online shoppers access to fitting technology developed for in-store use.

The fit id system uses 3D foot scanning and pressure plate analysis to measure feet and assess gait patterns. Fleet Feet states that its database contains over 5 million foot scans, and the technology identifies pressure points, arch characteristics, and movement tendencies. The fitting service, including scanning and recommendations, costs nothing. Customers pay only if they purchase products.

Orders over $99 qualify for free shipping and free returns. Product selection includes shoes and apparel for men and women, nutrition products, GPS watches, headlamps, and hydration packs. Runners who want data about their feet before buying online can visit a physical Fleet Feet location for scanning, then use that information when ordering through the website.

4. Road Runner Sports

Road Runner Sports has sold running shoes for over 40 years. The company operates 48 physical stores, mostly in coastal states, alongside its online store. For runners near one of these locations, Road Runner Sports functions as both a local option and an online retailer.

The VIP Membership Program costs $1.99 for the first six months, then renews at $49.99 annually. Members receive 10% instant savings on all purchases, earn 5% rewards cash back, and get free standard shipping on every online order. In-stock items ship within 24 hours for VIP members.

The VIP Perfect Fit Guarantee allows members to run in shoes, socks, insoles, or KORSA brand apparel for up to 90 days. Worn products can be exchanged for credit toward a different item. New and unused shoes can be returned within 60 days for a full refund.

Membership benefits extend to a member’s spouse, partner, children 21 and younger, and anyone else living in the same household. Higher tier memberships at $69.99 and $99.99 provide additional benefits including early access to new shoe releases.

5. REI Co-op

REI was founded in 1938 and operates more than 180 physical stores across 41 states. The company sells outdoor and athletic equipment across many categories, and running gear represents one portion of its broader inventory.

The Co-op Membership costs a one-time fee of $30 with no annual dues. Members earn an estimated 10% back on eligible full-price purchases. Each March, the previous year’s dividend appears in the member’s REI account. Members can use the dividend to purchase gear online or in-store, or receive it as cash at a physical location.

Members benefit from a 1 year return window on eligible products. Non-members receive a 90 day window. The policy allows runners to test products through multiple training cycles before deciding to keep or return them.

REI members can access Re/Supply, a program for buying and trading in used gear. Members trade in eligible items at physical stores or by mail and receive an REI gift card in return. The program supports runners who want to recoup value from gear they no longer use while giving others access to quality used equipment at lower prices.

6. Backcountry

Backcountry operates physical stores in West Valley and Park City, Utah; Boulder, Colorado; and Seattle. The online store carries shoes and GPS watches for runners more extensively than apparel and other gear. Shipping and returns are usually free.

The Gearhead Expert Service provides personalized support from staff members who work as both customer service representatives and product specialists. Gearheads are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone at 801-204-4655 or through the website’s chat function. They answer questions, help with orders, and provide recommendations based on specific needs.

Backcountry customers have reported that Gearheads can sometimes offer unpublished discounts on full-price items. Calling or chatting before purchasing may be worth the time. Gearheads can also price match products found at lower prices on other authorized sites, provided the item is an exact match and in stock. Backcountry offers a 30 day price guarantee if an item’s price drops on the company’s website after purchase.

7. Run United

Run United operates from Texas with both a physical store and online presence. The store carries running shoes, apparel, and accessories from major brands. Staff provides customized shoe fitting services for customers who visit the physical location.

Beyond product sales, Run United offers free seminars on nutrition and training techniques. Group runs organized through the store help runners maintain motivation and connect with others in the local running community.

The store aims to serve runners across all levels, from those starting their first running program to experienced athletes preparing for races. Online shoppers can browse current inventory and have products shipped directly.

8. Pacers Running

Pacers Running operates under the mantra “For Every Run” and focuses on making running accessible to as many people as possible. Orders over $100 qualify for free shipping, and most items can be returned free within 30 days.

The store offers buy online, pick up in store options. Runners can order through the website and collect their purchase at a physical Pacers Running location. This works well for customers who want to ensure sizing is correct before committing or who prefer not to wait for shipping.

Pacers Running carries shoes, apparel, and accessories. The selection covers road running, trail running, and everyday training needs.

9. Runnerinn

Runnerinn operates as part of the Tradeinn group and serves as an international online running store. The site ships to locations outside the United States, making it useful for runners who cannot access certain products domestically or who travel and need gear delivered abroad.

Product categories include GPS watches, heart rate monitors, and other training technology. The nutrition section stocks energy gels, bars, and hydration products. Footwear options span road running shoes, trail running shoes, and specialized footwear for track and triathlon.

Shipping costs and return policies vary by destination. Runners purchasing from Runnerinn should review the specific terms for their location before ordering.

10. Amazon

Amazon requires little introduction as a general retailer, but its running section deserves mention for accessibility and speed. Prime members receive free shipping on most items with delivery often arriving within one or two days. Non-Prime orders over $35 typically ship free.

The return window is 30 days for most products. Selection includes shoes, apparel, watches, nutrition products, and accessories from dozens of brands. Third-party sellers list products alongside those sold directly by Amazon, so pricing and shipping times can vary within the same product category.

Amazon works well for runners who know exactly what they want and prioritize fast delivery. The platform lacks the specialized fitting services and expert guidance offered by dedicated running retailers, but it compensates with convenience and availability.

11. Zappos

Zappos built its reputation on shoes and maintains a 365 day return policy. Runners can purchase shoes, test them over weeks or months of training, and return them within a full year if they do not work out. Shipping is free on all orders and all returns.

The store carries running shoes from major brands across road and trail categories. Apparel and accessories are also available. Customer service operates 24 hours a day and can assist with sizing questions and product recommendations.

For runners hesitant about buying shoes online without trying them first, the year-long return window removes most of the risk. Testing a shoe through an entire training cycle before deciding becomes possible.

What to Consider When Choosing a Store

Return Policies and Trial Periods

The ability to test shoes during actual runs matters more than any in-store treadmill test. Policies range from 30 days at some retailers to a full year at REI for members and Zappos for all customers. Running Warehouse and Road Runner Sports allow returns on worn items, which provides more accurate feedback than walking around your living room.

Read the fine print on each store’s policy. Some distinguish between exchanges and refunds. Others offer store credit for used items rather than returns to your original payment method.

Shipping Costs and Speed

Free shipping thresholds range from $35 at Amazon to $100 at Pacers Running. Running Warehouse includes prepaid return labels with every order, eliminating the cost of sending back products that do not work. Road Runner Sports VIP members receive free shipping on all orders regardless of total.

If you need gear quickly, check which stores offer expedited options and at what cost. Running Warehouse provides $14.95 overnight shipping on orders over $75.

Expert Support

Runners new to the sport or unfamiliar with current shoe technology benefit from stores that offer guidance. Fleet Feet’s fit id scanning provides data about foot shape and gait. The Feed’s coaches give personalized nutrition recommendations. Backcountry’s Gearheads answer questions around the clock.

General retailers like Amazon and Zappos rely on customer reviews and product descriptions rather than personalized service. These work fine for experienced runners who know their preferences.

Membership Programs

Road Runner Sports and REI both offer membership programs with meaningful benefits. Road Runner Sports VIP members save 10% on every purchase and earn 5% cash back. REI members receive roughly 10% back on full-price purchases as an annual dividend.

Calculate whether membership fees make sense based on how much you expect to spend. A runner buying two pairs of shoes and some apparel annually from REI would likely recover the $30 one-time membership fee through dividend earnings.

Specialty Needs

Trail runners, ultrarunners, and triathletes often need gear that general running stores do not carry. The Feed focuses specifically on endurance nutrition with over 300 brands. Backcountry stocks outdoor gear alongside running products. Runnerinn ships internationally and carries European brands less common in American stores.

Match the store to your specific needs rather than defaulting to the largest retailer.

Putting It Together

Online running stores serve different purposes depending on what you need. A runner stocking up on a shoe model they have worn for years might care most about price and fast shipping. Someone recovering from injury and unsure which shoe will support their return to training might value expert fitting services and generous return windows.

The stores listed here have earned recognition by serving runners well over extended periods. Running Warehouse, Fleet Feet, and Road Runner Sports have operated for decades. REI has existed since 1938. These companies understand what runners need because they have been providing it for a long time.

Consider starting with one store for shoes, another for nutrition, and perhaps a third for apparel or technology. Different retailers excel in different categories. Testing return policies on smaller purchases before committing to expensive items gives you direct knowledge of how each company handles customer service.

Running gear costs enough that making informed purchasing decisions saves real money over time. The comparison table at the beginning of this article provides a starting point. The details in each section give you what you need to match stores to your training, racing, and budget.