Find Your Perfect Running Shoe at Pacers

Pacers Running has been part of Arlington’s identity since the Farley family transformed it into the DMV’s premier running specialty retailer in 2003, and the Clarendon location at 3100 Clarendon Boulevard — directly across from the Clarendon Metro — remains the heart of the operation. Recently renovated, Pacers Clarendon is Arlington County’s largest and most respected running specialty store, with an upbeat on-the-go vibe consistent with the pulse of downtown Arlington. The store’s in-house gait analysis — conducted on an in-store treadmill in a private corner with quick stock room access — is the service that converts first-time visitors into loyal regulars: a trained staff member watches you run, identifies your natural gait, and fits you to the shoe that will actually work for your foot rather than just the shoe that’s most popular.

Beyond the retail experience, Pacers is a genuine community hub for Arlington runners. Free group runs meet every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. from the Clarendon store, and a free track workout meets every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Washington-Liberty High School — with the second Tuesday of each month featuring the popular Shake Shack Run meeting at the store instead.  Pacers also produces 14 road races annually across the DC area and hosts clinics, coaching programs, and community events throughout the year. Owner Chris Farley — a lifelong Arlington resident and University of Virginia cross-country alum — also hosts Pace The Nation, a top-five running podcast worth adding to your rotation. The full race calendar, group run schedule, and online shop are at runpacers.com.