The Running Company

Profile

This Princeton-based athletic chain stocks footwear and apparel for both amateur runners and marathoners. Athletic clothing ranges from basic dry-fit tops to customized sports bras according to cup size. But the brand’s main draw is its free gait analysis, meant to match each customer with his or her proper sneaker. Tall shelves display dozens of styles from Nike, Brooks, Puma, Adidas, and more. Depending on how the shopper’s foot strikes the ground while jogging on a treadmill, a trained staffer will recommend a cushion shoe (featuring a high arch and little support), stability shoe (with an extra wedge under the arch for maximum support), or a motion-control shoe (rigid, durable styles for the flat-footed). The running enthusiasts on staff also lead various weekly training groups ranging from long runs to women-only outings. — Yelena Shuster