Running Shop: A Snails Pace Running Shop

The other day I noticed A Snails Pace Running Shop made Competitor's 50 Best Running Retailers in America.  I'll admit it made me super proud... 

Disclaimer:

I’m a bit bias to the shop.  I worked there both as a coach and on the floor selling shoes/equipment.  If anyone wants to understand running, then I highly recommend taking on a part time job at a running shop. 

Is it just me or do you have a sense of pride and belonging when I walk into a Running Shop?  You feel apart of the "cool crowd".  You've got the chaffing marks and suntan lines to prove you've put the work in to belong there.  So I thought it's be good to do a write up on the store... fully acknowledging my love for the store comes through... but I tried to be objective :)

Shoes and Equipment:

For any beginner or seasoned runner, A Snails Pace is a great running shop.  The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.  I tell beginning marathon runners the number one thing they need to do is get in the right shoes.  And by that I mean, head to a Running Shop (not a Sports Chalet) and have someone watch you run.  I know there are all types of gadgets out there, but basically the thing you are looking for is how the foot strikes. 

Be prepared.  Ladies, wear your running bras.  Don’t show up in clothes that don’t allow you to run.  And allocate about 45 minutes (minimum) to have someone analyze the way you run. 

Bring in your current shoe.  Talk to the Sales Associate about how much you run, what running goals you have and any issues you might be experiencing. 

Snails Pace does a good job of listening.  The staff is made of runners.  They understand.  They advise.  They suggest.

As I used to say to my customers… it ultimately comes down to the individual on what shoe works for them.  So, don’t be embarrassed if you don’t fall in love right away.  Perhaps you need to test out 4-5 shoes in the store.  Snails Pace wants to make sure you get the right shoe and if it takes longer than 45 minutes, so be it.

Shop Highlights:

·        Sales Associates are runners and involved in the running community

·        Sales Associates do not make a commission so they truly want to make sure you find the right show

·        Wide selection of shoes

·        Decent selection of clothing

·        Wide selection of refueling products

·        Wide selection of running equipment (i.e. running belts, hats, etc)

·        Love their “race” wall that offers brochures and collateral for local races or resources

Shop * Opportunities*

·        Although Sales Associates are great at transferring or ordering shoes, sometimes their inventory is low

·        With Lululemon and Nike offering cute, functional running clothes it would be great to increase inventory to provide more options

·        Provide more insight on all products versus just shoes

Marathon Training Program:

My first Marathon experience was with Snail Pace.  I trained with Rich Scott who ultimately became my mentor for coaching.  I’m a huge fan of their program (again, I’m bias).

Oftentimes runners are confused on where to begin with marathon training.  Online and magazines offer several schedules, but you’ve still got to collate all the information and extract what’s relevant to you.  Snails Pace has Running Academies that help guide you through your journey to becoming a Marathoner (or at least look like one).  The program starts with an introduction from your coach, hand outs of the schedule and a brief assessment to determine your fitness.   From there, they conduct seminars on equipment, nutrition, and injury prevention.  You’ll meet and bond with other runners during your 5-6 month training.

Program Highlights:

·        A coach, a schedule, a plan. 

·        Instant support crew with your fellow runners and the coach

·        Saturday meetups for the long run

·        Seminars with guest speakers to educate you on Marathon running

·        Four locations to choose from

·        Support leading up to and at the race

·        Price is reasonable:  $125-150

·        Some training locations are right at the store, so you can shop for supplies after your long run

Program *Opportunities*:

·        Programs do not cover all races in OC

·        Advanced program for returning trainees that want to focus on speed/PRs is ok

I still drop by A Snails Pace Running Shop from time to time, to catch up with folks.  I’ve been buying my shoes from them for years… started with Saucony and moved onto my beloved ASICS.  They encourage and support the locals in their running endeavors.