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Best Running Store

RnJ Sports

 

When RnJ Sports opened in 1976, it was a mom-and-pop store run by Bob and Emily Scherf out of a little house painted “tennis-court green.” Today the store has two locations, and is known for experienced sales help and a no-nonsense approach to athletic footwear.

Staff members are mostly athletes trained in foot biomechanics and shoe technology, and they frequently handle referrals from physical therapists. Even with that level of service, RnJ typically offers lower prices than other retail stores (15 percent off shoes, which include Nike, Asics and Brooks, and discounted apparel, too).

Teddy Ferguson of Chevy Chase buys his tennis and running gear there and likes the friendly atmosphere. “People know who you are as soon as you walk in,” he says. “I feel they are there to take care of me.”

4945 Elm St., Bethesda, 301-986-0558; 11910-R Parklawn Drive, Rockville, 301-881-0021; www.rnjsports.com

Other top vote-getters: Fleet Feet, Potomac River Running, Georgetown Running Company

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