The Best Running Stores awards program honors run specialty stores for their dedication to their communities, staff, and innovation.
Nominated stores completed a comprehensive evaluation form covering employee benefits, inclusivity, sustainability, community engagement, and innovative business practices. From there, the Top 100 stores were selected and visited twice by secret shoppers, with evaluations focused primarily on human interaction and the in-store experience.
The 2026 program received more than 8,300 nominations representing nearly 270 unique stores across 49 states, highlighting the passion, talent, and commitment that define the run specialty industry.
