Often Running - Normal, Illinois

Sheila G.

Best running store in central Illinois hands down. Expert service, friendly, and really know what they are doing. Would highly highly recommend for all of your running needs!

Rebecca H.

While looking for new sneakers and after having a very disappointing experience at a local big sports store, I stopped into Often Running to check on the selection. Marcus, their shoe guy, was *incredibly* helpful and knowledgeable about shoes and their mechanics and helped me find two new pairs (for slightly different purposes) that I am very happy with a week later. They have training, running, walking, and biking shoes and some other shoes like slides. Prices are comparable to other outlets, but the service is exceptional.

Emilie M.

I had an absolutely fantastic experience! I got my first pair of running shoes from them years ago and enjoyed them and the service so much I returned for my replacement pair. They are the two best pairs of shoes I have ever owned. They are super comfortable and supportive shoes and the store has fantastic staff! The associate sat with us for 30 to 45 minutes recommending shoes, I never felt pressured, he provided wonderful conversation, and helped me land on yet another stellar pair! I wouldn't shop for my running shoes anywhere else!

Matthew K.

I have been getting my shoes from here for years and the staff is always so knowledgeable and helpful. Until moving out of Bloomington, I thought that was the standard for these stores, but no other shop I have gone to has even come close to being as great as these guys. I now make the trip back every time I need new shoes.
I was suffering an Achilles injury and the staff assessed my stride, suggested the best shoe model, and even knew which cushioned soles would help best. Thanks to their help, after a month and a half of being unable to run, I'm back to running normal distances after just a week in the shoes they suggested. I doubt I'll ever shop for running shoes anywhere else!

Erin W.

As a newer runner experiencing mysterious ankle pain, a friend of mine recommended getting fitted for actual running shoes instead of running in my two year old hiking shoes I’d been wearing for the last two months.

I went to Often Running unsure of what I was even looking for but hoping someone would be able to help explain my ankle issues and possibly point me in the direction of some better shoes.

Noah was extremely helpful and explained the issue with the current shoes I was wearing, the possible cause of my ankle pain, and assisted with trying on several pairs of running shoes. As a new runner, I knew absolutely nothing about the different types of shoes or padding involved. Noah was very helpful and knowledgeable in explaining everything and took his time to make sure I found the right pair of shoes for me. The shoes I ended up with have made a huge difference!

I would highly recommend Often Running for shoes and running gear. Thanks Noah!

Liz H.

My husband and I stopped in to look for running shoes today. We had read online that the staff could help us asses our foot and gait to ensure we got the best fit for us. From the time we walked into the store the staff member stayed sitting on a bench. He asked if if we wanted to see any shoes, but offered no other information or advice. For one thing none of the shoes have a price tag on them. When we would ask a price he would say "I think they are around....." without offering to verify prices for us. We were totally shocked because what we read online is how helpful the staff is at this store. It is definitely not the vibe we received today. We left feeling like we had burdened the staff member by walking in the store. Ultimately we left and took out business elsewhere.

Steven Y. J.

I'm so hppha with my experience! Mitchell was super helpful in finding the right shoe for me. Super friendly and way better than what I was expecting. I definitely recommend Often Running if you want friendly, helpful staff and a range of athletic shoes!

Jean M.

This was my first time at Often Running. I felt the gentleman that helped me was knowledgeable about the footwear, was friendly, and very helpful. I'll be returning.