We covered the opening of Vancouver Running Company (1886 West 1st Avenue ) a little while back. Since then, the shop has been getting a lot of love from clients and media. The concept is simple and so needed. Running shops in in Vancouver weren’t particularly cool or welcoming. Becky and Rob Smith were runners who wanted better looking merch and a community feel. They’re also fun. There’s as much emphasis on after-run beers as there is on a good running performance.
If you haven’t visited the shop yet, you can learn more from the Q&A with the owners below.
As reported by The Vancouver Sun
“Shopping for new running gear wouldn’t usually be considered a fashionable event.
But Rob and Becky Smith of the Vancouver Running Company are out to change that with their first shop in Kitsilano.
The new, naturally lit shopping space, which is located at 1886 West 1st Ave., could easily be confused for a gallery or upscale boutique.
And that’s exactly what the pair had in mind when they set out to create a destination for the Vancouver’s vast community of runners.
‘It was important for us to create the perfect balance between a boutique feel and a friendly comfortable space,’ they said of the store.”
The Smiths dished on their inspiration for the space, what shoppers can find in store and shared their thoughts on the local running scene during an interview with The Sun.
Q The idea of a running store isn’t exactly new, yet you’ve done something different with your new Kitsilano location (at 1886 West 1st Ave.). In your opinion, what makes this store unique?
A Visually, we hope you’ll notice right away that we’re doing something different. But beyond that, we wanted to do something that would contribute to the running community. We created VRC Flight Crew, which offers group runs, yoga, maintenance clinics and other events. These are held right in the store and are open to runners of all types. It’s a welcoming and supportive environment that we hope will be an extension of the community.
Q What can shoppers expect to find in store?
A The store reflects us as individuals. We’ve curated a collection of running apparel, accessories, and shoes that we love and know will stand up to the abuse runners will put them through — and that have a style we know Vancouverites will identify with. We’ve always got our customers’ store experience in mind, so there are only a certain number of pieces on the floor at any time, from unique brands that we’ve hand-picked. The shoe wall, which we’re especially proud of, is laid out like a gallery with custom info cards that correspond to a legend that guides the buying process. Our team is relaxed, approachable and fully committed to Vancouver’s running community.
Q What can shoppers expect to find in store?
A The store reflects us as individuals. We’ve curated a collection of running apparel, accessories, and shoes that we love and know will stand up to the abuse runners will put them through — and that have a style we know Vancouverites will identify with. We’ve always got our customers’ store experience in mind, so there are only a certain number of pieces on the floor at any time, from unique brands that we’ve hand-picked. The shoe wall, which we’re especially proud of, is laid out like a gallery with custom info cards that correspond to a legend that guides the buying process. Our team is relaxed, approachable and fully committed to Vancouver’s running community.
Q Your location looks light, bright and almost like a fashion boutique. What was the inspiration behind the new space?
A Thank you! Our inspiration was Vancouver and the Pacific Northwest, a way to bring the outdoors in. We personally love a sleek and modern esthetic, and it worked perfectly to create a space that was bright and easy to move around in, and that allowed products to be displayed clutter free.
Q Are the demands of Vancouver runners different from other markets because of the weather/terrain?
A Yes, without a doubt. The demands of trail runners can be more complex than road runners. Shoes need to perform at their very best in both muddy, rooty, wet climbs as they do in dry, rocky descents. On the North Shore you can easily find these varying conditions during the same run. Road running requires less gear but can be just as demanding in the technical requirements and fit of each piece of clothing and shoes. Roadies also seem to value a more urban design esthetic in their clothing. This is another reason we selected the brands we did — it’s a fine balance between looking good and having the right gear.
Q Do you see more fair-weather runners in this city? Or are they more year-round?
A We have only been open during fair-weather days in Vancouver, but from personal experience the running community is just as active during the colder months.”
Last modified: January 7, 2017
