American Running Company

Fantastic experience: This is the best place in the Clearwater area to buy sneakers. They carry quality brands. The owner really cares that we get the right sneaker/right fit for walking and good posture. I recently had a back operation, and he recommended the Brooks Ghost Max. I feel like I'm walking on a cloud--no pain. Highly recommend this store.

Fantastic experience: Always a good experience and positive shopping outcome.

Fantastic experience: A huge shout out to the sales associate Blessing for helping me pick out the perfect shoe, she spent the time with me to help figure out what shoe would work best for my running style.

Fantastic experience: Great local store to get dialed in with your running needs...

Fantastic experience: Always helpful and knowledgeable.

Fantastic experience: Sales person was very helpful and knowledgable about fitting shoes. It was a great experience.

Fantastic experience: CJ is a class act and great representation of this local shop. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for running gear!

Fantastic experience: Love the American Running Co staff! They are so easy to work with to find the perfect shoe. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Jim was a great help to my daughter and I. I recommend this place!

Fantastic experience: This is my favorite local running store. They go above and beyond with their service.

Fantastic experience: Thank you to CJ and Blessing for the help, I am excited to put some miles on my new kicks! Excellent fitting process

Fantastic experience: I buy all my running shoes from the American Running Company in Clearwater, FL. Great store. Great service. They know their stuff

Fantastic experience: Cj is always an awesome help and does exceptionally well with his customer service skills!! Jim is great as well, and both of these guys really care about your experience while you’re there! Can’t recommend enough.

Fantastic experience: ARC is the best for any running needs! Always a great experience. Went in last week and was suggested a shoe change. Thank you thank you! They are the perfect shoe!! I appreciate you all!!

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend visiting this family owned store if you need new shoes for running or walking. CJ was so helpful in getting me fitted to select my next pair.

Fantastic experience: Jim is a treasure. 57 years of running experience! I learned 5 things in 30 minutes just buying my wife her 5k shoes!! Come in and dont rush: you will learn something!

Fantastic experience: CJ was awesome, customer service at its finest. He worked with me on my purchase until I was totally satisfied. Please give this local business a try.

Fantastic experience: Always friendly, always knowledgeable! CJ helped me get into a pair of running shoes that was good for me, not necessarily what he wanted to sell. I will always recommend this place for runners looking for a shoe that not only fits their foot, but also fits their running goals.

Fantastic experience: I'm nit a runner but I've been struggling with back and hip issues for months. My doctor recommended getting properly fitted for shoes at a running store. Jim helped me find a perfect pair. He reviewed my gait, was patient, asked the right questions and found a pair of shoes that almost instantly helped my hip pain. Loved the attention to detail and concern for getting me the right shoes. Thank you! We'll be back!

Fantastic experience: Had a wonderful experience at the American running company, I was helped by Jim that has quite a bit of knowledge. My feet had been hurting me when I walked or lightly jogged. Jim took his time and we tried on five pairs of shoes we chose a pair of Hoka’s, it was like I was walking on a cloud. I would not hesitate coming back for another pair of shoes.

Fantastic experience: Jim was so helpful. My wife has had several experiences with actual medical professionals and has made no progress on fixing her feet. Jim spent 10 minutes with her and knew exactly what she needed. What a refreshing take!

Fantastic experience: Such a great experience!!! CJ was so friendly and super helpful. Right after watching the way I walked he had a few shoes in mind for me to try. He let me take my time and answered every question I had. I went with the asics gel-cumulus 26, which are SUPER comfortable and I cannot wait to try them out. They even let you try them out for 7 days and you can go back for an exchange or store credit if you didn’t like the first pair. He also helped me pick out some socks as well I will for sure be returning whenever I need running gear!!! Thank you CJ!!!

Fantastic experience: Great running store. Huge selection and I worked with CJ who is great and gave me great information on running shoes. I chose the Brooks ghost which fantastic with a ton of support. Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for good running shoes and good help finding a great fit.

Fantastic experience: Jim was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable when it came to helping me find the right pair of shoes. After discussing with him the purpose and type of training I was doing and assessing how I pronated, he was able to provide me with plenty of different options of shoes to try. Would highly recommend this store and speaking with Jim if you're looking to purchase a new pair of running shoes.

Fantastic experience: Jim was a great help!

Fantastic experience: Jim was the most helpful and informative running store associate that I have ever had! I travel for a living and knew better than to go to Dicks, I had to find the best local store and I’m so thankful I found yours! I’m on team Hoka now thanks to Jim, can’t wait to come back!

Fantastic experience: I love this place! They are very helpful and allow a 7 day wear everywhere experience. If the shoe isn’t right they will refit you with a new shoe or give you a store credit. In all of the years I have used this store I have only had one time where I needed to be refit. CJ was awesome with my fitting today. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Shop local! CJ will help you find just the right shoes. Great selection. Great service. Thank you AMERICAN RUNNING COMPANY!

Fantastic experience: I want to first say that I am not a great runner. I have never truly enjoyed it and now I’m just convinced I never had the correct shoe. Originally I came in to get my husband sized for shoes and I was so impressed by CJ’s knowledge that I figured I’d ask him all my burning questions while I was there. Well it paid off because not only did my husband get a perfect pair but so did I. And now I’m actually excited to start running.

Fantastic experience: CJ helped me find the perfect shoes for me! Love them, and the one on one personal service was fabulous! Thank you, I will be back and have recommended your place to my clients. Support local businesses!

Fantastic experience: Great store CJ was super helpful

Fantastic experience: Came in on my lunch break and CJ took great care of me. I told him what I needed, he had me try on multiple shoes and within 15 minutes I was walking out the store with a great pair of shoes. Thank you CJ.

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this store. Great selection and personal service from CJ.

Fantastic experience: First time visitor to ARC and while the store may show some signs of age, the exceptional customer service continues to shine brightly. The knowledgeable staff took the time to understand my husband’s and my specific needs and helped us find the perfect running shoes. Despite the store's slightly tired appearance, the friendly and attentive service more than makes up for it. If you're looking for personalized assistance and a staff that genuinely cares about getting you the right fit, this is the place to go. We'll definitely be back

Fantastic experience: First time at ARC in Clearwater off 19. Have to say the experience exceeded my expectations! CJ and Jim were extremely helpful in me finding the perfect shoe for my running style and goals. I went with idea of getting another pair of Hokas , but Wide. They didn’t have on hand as most places don’t keep wides but told they can order no problem. They showed me a selection of available shoes and suggested I try the Altra Torin7 as it has a wider toe box. I’ve never owned a pair of Altras and I’m sold! I actually like them better than my Cliftons. I ran 3 miles that same day with zero hotspot or fatigue and have been running with them with no issues since. I would highly recommend ACR and will absolutely be back. Thanks!

Fantastic experience: Jim and CJ were fantastic! They assessed my walk/feet and made sure to provide options based on their assessment. Extremely knowledgeable and customer friendly. I'll be coming back for future purchases and referring family and friends.

Fantastic experience: I have been shopping at this running store for years. They have all the high quality brands of running shoes, sandals, socks and many accessories. CJ the manager is so nice and if he doesn't have your choice in stock he will order it for you. They also have a group of runners/walkers who meet every Tues evening at the store. Several times a year they have a party with vendors who let you try out their products. Lots of discounts offered throughout the year.

Fantastic experience: Extremely knowledgeable & friendly service. Really like the Store Shoe Policy, you can wear them for a week If they don't fit your needs you can exchange for another pair within that week time-frame

Fantastic experience: Thank you very knowledgeable. Very helpful. Jim was outstanding.

Fantastic experience: We are very happy we came in today! Jim went above and beyond to help my daughter find the perfect fit for her daily running. It was our 4th store of today looking for the "right fit" that would simply "have it all". We quickly narrowed down two amazing pairs and even CJ stepped out of his office to give us some important input that made the decision making a piece of cake. What an INCREDIBLE experience all around!

Fantastic experience: First time I've been to this store. The customer service was amazing and they actually fit your foot to the shoe! Awesome experience .. highly recommend! Jim was very helpful and took time to explain what we needed to know!

Fantastic experience: Superb customer service by CJ. Shopping for the perfect athletic shoe is no easy chore these days. CJ took the time to explain the differences between four different shoes and the makers of the shoes I tried on. All four were good and the differences slight but his patience in letting me try all four (both left and right) made the difference for the selection that best fit my needs. I used by athletic shoes based on price and sales. Never again. I’m goin’ to American Running Company again and evermore!

Fantastic experience: When I walked in the store I was immediately assisted by Jim. I basically walked in and anounced that I was in pain when I run and I hated the shoes I had been wearing. Jim explained that I had been wearing the wrong size shoe, and should be wearing a shoe with a much better support if I want to keep running in the future. He was very knowledgeable and explained everything very clearly. He brought out multiple choices and together we found the best shoe for me. He did not rush me and was very focused on my foot position in each shoe. I feel very confident that my pain will be greatly reduced. I wish I would have come here sooner, and most definitely will be coming back

Fantastic experience: I have been shopping at American Running Company since the store was originally located in Dunedin. They have been open for 20 years, there is a reason why this locally owned store has remained open all these years. Great customer service and great supply of shoes. They can pick just the right shoe for you.

Fantastic experience: Jim was amazing. He was so knowledgeable and took care of us very thoroughly explaining everything we needed to do. You should promote him, you don't find workers like him anymore. I hope you appreciate him enough.

Fantastic experience: Love this store. CJ always gets the right shoe for me. And I can pick up some run fuel while I’m there. It’s a great place with friendly helpful staff.

Fantastic experience: Awesome service. I was able to have he Hoka shoes ordered in the color I wanted and 15 percent off! I have bought two pairs of Hoka's and ready for my 3rd pair.

Fantastic experience: Great service and great gait analysis by Jim

Fantastic experience: Top quality service and selection. Stopped by to get a pair of running shoes. Jim took the time to look at my gait. He brought out a few different pairs to see which one I preferred. Got great shoes and pointers on foot care.

Fantastic experience: Jim was super helpful and provided fantastic service! Will be returning!

Fantastic experience: CJ was so nice and super knowledgeable on his products, will most definitely be back!

Fantastic experience: My husband and I went in to get fitted for new shoes (running shoes and shoes for work- standing for 14 hours), and we were not disappointed! This isn’t a chain shoe store, you’re going to get knowledgeable recommendations whether you buy or not! It was really nice to have someone ask questions, observe your gait, give expert advice, listen to your feedback as you try on multiple shoes, and then arrive at the perfect pair. Jim helped us out, and he was amazing (normally works Tuesdays and Thursdays). My husband and I left American Running Company with two pairs of shoes each and my feet, knees, and hips say thank you!

Fantastic experience: Jim was amazing help! He went through about 8-10 pairs of shoes with me, different brands to see which one I liked better. He’s a runner himself so he understands what a runner needs. In fact, he picked out a pair of shoes and said “these are gonna be the ones you choose I just know it”. He opens the box and they are yellow. MY FAVORITE COLOR (is he psychic?). I walked in them and knew they were it. I’ve been running in my Nike Free Runs for around 2 years now (ps: you would think the shoe that has the word run in it would be good for running). I’ve never have had an actual pair of running shoes. Never knew that was a thing until I went on “RunTok” (I looked up running videos on TikTok and started seeing people review running shoes). I shortly realized I wanted to make the investment for the health & safety of my body. Thank you Jim!!!! I didn’t catch the name of the guy that was also in there but he was awesome, too! I will be back for all my running needs. Thanks again.

Fantastic experience: My podiatrist suggested this store for running shoes. I need to get orthotics to fit inside them as well. Jim was extraordinarily helpful and knowledgeable as to what type of shoe I needed. I learned a lot in 15 minutes with him! CJ the manager came out and made his recommendations and between the 2 of them, I got a pair of running shoes that feel like heaven PLUS were in my budget. Jim also helped me learn about socks for hyperhydrosis which I also purchased for a relative. I had no idea this store -kind of off the beaten path- was such a JEWEL. This takes shoe selection and purchasing to a new level. I will never buy shoes online or carelessly again-only from American Running Company. Our feet deserve care and quality. Thank You Jim and CJ!

Fantastic experience: Really nice people .. no rush .. listens to your needs and help in all concerns... why go anywhere else ..cj is informative and very likable 5 stars for sure

Fantastic experience: Went in for my first pair of dedicated-only-to- running shoes. I'd been having issues with my knees all of a sudden after many years of running. CJ analyzed my gait by sight and recommended three different manufacturers. Went with Hoka Clifton 9, feels like clouds under my soles. After two and a half weeks, my soreness slowly went away. I could not be happier with these shoes. Thank you CJ!

Fantastic experience: I have been trying to find well fitting, comfortable, and also supportive shoes for months the relieve plantar fasciitis flare-ups. My podiatrist recommended a few different brands and suggested the American Running Company as one place I might find them. When I walked in I was greeted by CJ and Jim who were so very helpful. CJ, the general manager, knew exactly what I needed but showed me several brands that were recommended and let me choose. CJ explained all about the differences in shoe construction and support features. Of course the shoes he recommended were the most comfortable and fit perfectly! The shoes he recommended also had the highest quality support and I could feel the difference between that shoe and others I had tried. I was in and out of the store in under 10 minutes with the assurance that if I did not like them after wearing them for a week I could bring them back for something else. I don't think that is happening. I love these shoes! Thank you CJ and Jim for the best shoe shopping/buying experience I have ever had!

Fantastic experience: Very knowledgeable and helpful. They know the specifics of each shoe to help you get what you need based on how you run/walk. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: HUGE shoutout to the manager CJ for helping me find the perfect fitting shoes for work. I’m on my feet all day so I was desperate for some sort of support and relief. I told CJ that I have high arches and wide feet and he immediately knew what would be suitable for my needs. He thoroughly assessed my gait and foot placement in various positions as well as asked questions about my shoe and activity history. CJ knew so much information about the brands they carry and their pros/cons. I greatly appreciated the transparency and integrity of this business. They also offer healthcare, law enforcement, first responder, etc. discounts which is amazing considering how pricey everything is nowadays. I also believe supporting local small businesses is crucial to our community, especially ones that are so willing to work with you. I will 100% be returning for more shoes! Thank you again CJ! *I received no compensation or gratis product for this endorsement. All opinions are my own.

Fantastic experience: Thank you John and CJ for helping me pick out my first pair of Ons. So far, so good! And the test drive continues!

Fantastic experience: Great service and very knowledgeable staff, which is extremely hard to find these days. They take the time to analyze your gait and make shoe recommendations based on your individual needs. Plus they offer a 7 day trial period which is an awesome bonus. Will definitely be returning here for my next pair of running shoes.

Fantastic experience: A great store, they made it really easy to find the perfect running shoe for me. Super patient while I tried on different pairs. Very helpful staff!

Fantastic experience: Very knowledgeable and helpful. I’ve bought several pair here.

Fantastic experience: Stuart was a great help..thx

Fantastic experience: The service by CJ and Stanley (I believe that's his name, great kid) is always top notch ... I have a wider foot so CJ helped me with shoes that fit me better than just walking in to sell me anything. He sold me my first pair of Hokas and really are loving them. I'm not a runner at all but I enjoy a very nice and form fitting shoe that can last. Will definitely be back for something for my lady now ❗ Big THANX to CJ and his team❗

Fantastic experience: The GM CJ is amazeballs and helped me with all my sock needs...no more blisters yee yee

Fantastic experience: Within 10 minutes of entering this establishment. I was sold the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. I was instructed to walk and through that he diagnosed my walk pattern and prescribed me a pair of shoes. The shoes came with a week warranty. Definitely recommend.

Fantastic experience: Professional. Courteous. Knowledgeable. Friendly. When you want an absolutely great customer experience from start to finish and then some, go see CJ at American Running Company. For years (since high school, actually, and I'm 58), I never experienced that 'wow' factor with comfortable running shoes. My feet always hurt sooner or later (usually sooner). I've gone to several businesses (some national chains, some local) and have been (mis)diagnosed and told that I needed: - wide shoes - regular width shoes - shoes for overpronation - shoes for supination (which is it?) - neutral shoes with premade inserts - custom inserts You get the idea. Everything under the sun but the right advice. Until, that is, American Running Company was recommended by my doctor who is very in-shape and active. He said that ARC is where he goes and had very high praise for them. I now know why, and so will you when you go there. For the first time in 58 years, I have shoes that are actually comfortable, stable and a joy to wear (and they didn't break the bank). After correctly diagnosing my gait, CJ brought out multiple options to choose from. He evaluated my gait in each pair until we had three candidates, then it was up to me. Not only do I like the expert opinion and other things as mentioned above, I appreciated the time spent with me on analysis, diagnosis and evaluation. It showed I wasn't just another sale but a valued customer. As far as the review that stated "...they didn't even measure my foot", I thought the same thing until it was explained to me that shoes by different manufacturers are just like clothes: a size/good fit in one made by Company A doesn't guarantee a match in size/fit in one made by Company B. Trust ARC to do their job and you won't be disappointed.

Fantastic experience: Wow. Described my needs and excercise habits, I walked and they observed my walking and were able to recommend a number of shoes..... found a great pair. Very friendly.... good hearted business.

Fantastic experience: Great store and great experience. CJ got me into a new pair of Brooks shoes and they are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn!

Fantastic experience: They understood exactly what my foot issue was and the recommended running shoe is perfect. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: CJ was very helpful. Love my new running shoes! Their “wear them for a week” guarantee makes it an easy decision.

Fantastic experience: I've been shopping with ARC for the last few years. The friendly staff is very knowledgeable about running and will help you find the shoes you need. I've even come in for proper insert fittings. Highly recommend to all levels of runners!

Fantastic experience: Great place to get what you need for all your running needs. Manager CJ is extremely knowledgeable in getting what’s right for you. Stop in and see CJ to get fitted and even join the weekly running club!!

Fantastic experience: Great staff. Store has a great selection. Had a great experience.

Fantastic experience: The only place I go for running shoes. Gait analysis and a test run on their treadmill gets you into the perfect shoes for you

Negative experience: My girlfriend and I drove about an hour down there last week, We were told that we have a week to test them out. If we don't like them for any reason that we can bring them back due a full refund or exchange. I made sure that was what was said. I've worked in retail quite a long time and I know to make sure the customer knows our policies before they leave the store. Had known we couldn't get our money back and Only get an (exchange or store credit) When we came back we would have not purchased them, and got them online like we did. That's bad buisness and do not recommend going to this store to anyone.

Fantastic experience: Only place I can get New balance sandals Only place I trust in fitting me with proper tennies.

Fantastic experience: CJ (I think that was his name said he was the GM) was extremely helpful! Answwred my questions and put me in the RIGHT shoes for me! Thanks!!

Fantastic experience: On my third pair of Brooks here!! Same size and color. Great deals!!

Fantastic experience: Knowledgeable, friendly staff. Our family of marathoners, Ironman and newbies alike have relied on ARC’s expertise for many years.

Fantastic experience: Awesome company for anyone that needs fitted for shoes!

Negative experience: Awful return policy and customer service. Sales guy never asked me how long I run, how often, and definitely did not access my gait or have me run on the treadmill or anything. Based on their website, they are supposed to get to know you (running style, history, goals, etc.), do a gait analysis, and then do a fitting and recommendation. I was not given any of these. The only reason I bought a pair of shoes here is because I saw a brand that intrigued me, but the guy never suggested them, nor really any shoe despite me telling him what I was looking for and wanted out of a shoe. He kept saying, "7 day for returns" but never told me it was for exchange or store credit only! I did not feel I was appropriately cared for and I also felt I was lied to about the return policy (even the brand of shoes I bought, if I bought them from the manufacturer site, it gives 30 day trial RUN). The shoes actually hit my front toe the wrong way I've found, and even though they are new, never used, and I was told "7 days to return" I actually can't really return the $150 shoes. I don't even want a store credit because I want to go somewhere where I actually feel like I'm taken care of and treated like a valuable customer. Totally disappointed with this place and won't be back or reccomend to anyone. And by the way management, get better sales people who can reccomend, assess, and leave the customer feeling confident in their purchase, and get a better return policy. I feel totally cheated by you guys.

Fantastic experience: I'd recommend them to anyone. The gentleman asked for a budget and brought two pairs of comfortable shoes under it. Didn't try to upsell me at all. Made it easy to make a purchasing decision. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: The staff is always helpful and has great recommendations for shoes.

Fantastic experience: Heard good things about this local store, particularly that they offer great customer service, so instead of heading to the mall, I checked them out on a Sunday afternoon. Loved my experience! I called ahead of time to check on my preferred style and size, which they had in stock. Layla helped me with fitting - suggesting that I size up to allow for expansion as my feet swell during a run. She showed me styles for my pronation and toebox width, and I'm very excited about my purchase. Will definitely come here, first, for my future running needs!

Fantastic experience: I found this company about 5 years ago after I got into fitness. I thought it was normal for my feet to hurt during & after my workout.... until I heard about ARC. After an assessment, they told me that I needed a certain type of shoe. And they couldn't be more RIGHT!!!! No more pain! These guys & gals definitely know what they are doing. Highly recommend.

Positive experience: The employees are young and don’t seem very knowledgeable about the different shoes and needs of the client.

Negative experience: Not for professional

Fantastic experience: Employees were super friendly, helpful, and found what i needed quickly. Made me feel comfortable, and told me to come back if i have any issues within a week.

Fantastic experience: Went in without any knowledge of type of shoe needed or gait. The employee there was extremely knowledgeable and assisted my wife and I very well. We will be returning here for future needs.

Fantastic experience: Great place to get Vibram shoes. The people that work here are all runners so they can give great advice.

Fantastic experience: Really pleasant and knowledgeable staff

Fantastic experience: They helped me to get exactly what I needed, very professional!

Positive experience: It’s a bit out of town but the staff were helpful and spent time letting me try on half a dozen different brands of running shoes until I had the perfect fit. The left inner heel lining of the Sacony runners I bought wore through after a month and they exchanged them without argument, so their after sales service is good

Fantastic experience: Nagyon jó a kiszolgálás, hozzáértő személyzet.

Fantastic experience: Great little running store. Love this place.

Fantastic experience: ariam and abel ,

Fantastic experience: Back in July, I was fitted for a pair of running shoes - Saucony. It was the best thing I ever did for my workout and well-being. The owner helped me pick the right pair of shoes by watching my gait. I am still wearing them during my workouts, and they still look brand new. Before, I just pick whatever shoe was on sale at a chain store. My toes wore through the the shoes. Not now, my Saucony pair were worth the time and cost. Three months later, I am stil happy cutomer.

Negative experience: What a joke. The end.