Since opening our doors in 2003, Santa Barbara Running has helped thousands of people prepare for their next run. We’ve heard their stories and seen glimpses of their lives – whether local athletes or visitors passing through. Together we’ve trained for our first 5k or 50k and learned that each runner’s experience is entirely unique. These connections inspire our team and bring us closer to the ‘why’ behind it all: sharing the simple joy of getting out there.
Running is an incredibly personal experience, and finding the right pair of shoes is all part of the sport’s ritual; it’s a choice that can feel overwhelmingly nuanced. In an era of online shopping and Amazon deliveries, there’s something especially meaningful about walking into your local, real-life running store. Tailored, knowledgeable, and non-judgemental guidance is simply hard to beat. We’re here to support your one-of-a-kind running tradition.
Carefully Curated
As self-proclaimed “gear-junkies,” our team continually seeks new products, curating a thoughtful selection of the best items in the industry. We’ll help narrow your search based on your preferences and movement goals. By trying multiple products and comparing them back-to-back, you’ll save trips to the post office and the angst of returning items. If you find yourself unable to come into the shop, however, we have an online selection so you can support your local store from anywhere.
With You Every Step of the Way
Your shoes are your most important tool; an ill-suited shoe affects performance and recovery – so we do everything we can to make sure you find a pair that fits you perfectly. Our team is trained to provide comprehensive gait analysis, equipped with the technology to understand your stride and provide tailored guidance. Once we’ve identified a few options, you’ll be able to test out the shoes yourself with a run around the block. Finding your ideal pair has never been easier.
The Community That Makes Us Who We Are
Santa Barbara Running was built on a love for connection; walking into our store means walking into our community. The fabric of our culture is woven together through people and their stories – from the everyday running enthusiast to those just getting started. We are proud to be Santa Barbara’s only independent running store, and we are passionate about empowering you to feel confident in your purchases. After all, it’s about getting out there and enjoying our stunning corner of the Central Coast.
