Jacksonville has a strong specialty running store scene anchored by 1st Place Sports — one of the most respected running retailers in the Southeast. Here are the best running stores in Jacksonville and what makes each one worth visiting.
Finding the right running shoe starts with getting properly fitted by someone who actually knows running. Jacksonville is fortunate to have a strong specialty running store scene — anchored by 1st Place Sports, one of the most respected running retailers in the Southeast — with multiple locations across the city and surrounding areas. Here is where to go.
1st Place Sports — Four Jacksonville Locations
1st Place Sports is the gold standard of Jacksonville running retail. Founded in Jacksonville and deeply woven into the local running community, 1st Place Sports operates four locations across the metro area and is the organizing force behind the Gate River Run, Tour de Pain, and dozens of other Jacksonville running events. Their staff are runners, their shoe fitting process is thorough, and their product selection covers every major brand at every price point. If you are getting fitted for running shoes in Jacksonville, start here.
1st Place Sports San Marco
The San Marco location on San Marco Boulevard is arguably the most beloved of the four — centrally located in one of Jacksonville's most walkable and runner-friendly neighborhoods. It is the flagship store experience, with the full range of footwear, apparel, and accessories alongside a staff that is deeply involved in the local running scene.
1st Place Sports Southside
Located at Tapestry Park on the Southside, this location is convenient for runners living in the southern and eastern parts of Jacksonville. Same expert fitting, full product selection, and a staff that participates in and organizes local races.
1st Place Sports Baymeadows
The Baymeadows Road location serves the middle of Jacksonville's Southside corridor and is a convenient stop for runners in that area. All the same 1st Place Sports expertise in a neighborhood-friendly format.
1st Place Sports Jacksonville Beach
For runners on the Beaches — Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach — the 1st Place Sports location on 3rd Street South is the go-to. Shoe fitting, race advice, and a community that takes beach running seriously.
Fit2Run — Two Jacksonville Area Locations
Fit2Run is Florida's largest specialty running retail chain, with locations across the state. In the Jacksonville area, they operate at The Avenues mall on the Southside and at the Wells Road location in Orange Park. Fit2Run offers a video gait analysis service that can be a useful tool for runners addressing injury patterns or transitioning to a different shoe type. Their selection spans all the major running brands with a broad range of models at multiple price points.
Fit2Run The Avenues
Located inside The Avenues mall on Southside Boulevard, this location gives Jacksonville Southside runners easy access to a full-service running specialty store with the added convenience of mall parking and retail surroundings.
Fit2Run Orange Park
The Orange Park location on Wells Road serves Clay County runners and anyone living in the western Jacksonville suburbs. A solid option for runners who find the Jacksonville locations less convenient.
What to Expect at a Running Shoe Fitting
At any of these stores, a proper running shoe fitting will include a conversation about your running history, weekly mileage, and any injury concerns. Most stores will watch you walk or run — either in the aisle or on a treadmill — to assess your gait and foot strike. From there, they'll recommend shoes based on your mechanics, not just your preferences. Plan for 30–45 minutes and bring or wear the socks you typically run in.
1st Place Sports Race Calendar
One of the unique things about 1st Place Sports is that they are not just a retailer — they are the beating heart of Jacksonville's running event calendar. The Gate River Run, Tour de Pain series, and dozens of community races throughout the year are organized through or supported by 1st Place Sports. Visit the Jacksonville events page on Run Florida Run to see upcoming races, many of which are connected to the 1st Place Sports community.
Browse all Florida running stores on Run Florida Run, or find a store near you using the city filters.