Early on when we were making decisions about which stores fit the model for Haystack, we had a conversation with an early user about running shoes. The thinking was that this was an area where we may have to get some larger chain stores on the site to let people find local offerings.
We’ve resisted going down that path, and are now highlighting a truly local, independently owned shop that offers a diverse selection of running shoes and apparel: Culture Athletics.
Located at the intersection of Queen E and Carlaw, Culture Athletics is in the heart of Leslieville. Their original store location was Queen E and Jones, so they’ve been a part of this neighbourhood since they first opened their doors in 2018.
This is the real deal of running stores. All of their employees run, including their store manager, so they can offer solid advice on what footwear and running clothes work best for you.
The store is owned by a husband and wife, and the owner is an avid runner. Culture Athletics actively participates in the community, offering running programs and training sessions and partnering with local running groups, including Eastbound Run Crew (EBRC), which operates out of another business that’s on the Haystack site: Eastbound Brewing Co.
For runners, it’s often important to find a community of like-minded people when selecting gear. Culture Athletics offers that experience, with staff that can help you find the right footwear and apparel, whether you’re dealing with an injury, just starting out on your running journey, or are an advanced runner trying to set a PR in a long-distance race.
They also sell apparel and footwear for yoga and active lifestyles, so if you’re looking for a local shop that has performance footwear and clothing and athleisure wear, is independently owned, and has a dedicated, passionate team, Culture Athletics is your place to shop.
They currently have a number of sales going on which you can find by searching Deals on Haystack: https://www.haystackfinds.com/search?query=running+shoes&hasDiscount=true&categories=Footwear