About
Our Story
The Starting Block is Vernon’s premier running shoe store of choice with specialty shoes made for walking or running on roads, and trails.
Serving Vernon Since 2002- you will experience top of line service, and products. We offer help to all persons looking for the correct shoes, apparel, and gear to help you keep moving. Our vision is to inspire others to move by fitting you correctly with the right fit according to your body mechanics and your preferred mode of movement. We recognize we are all different- Check us out you won’t be disappointed.
The store opened in 2002 by Wendy Schroeder, who is to this day an avid runner and an inspiration to many. Wendy, operated the store for 18 years and gave it the solid foundation it is today, building many relationships in the local community. PennyTrudel, purchased the store in 2020 from Wendy and continues the tradition of excellent customer service with her sales team.
The Starting Block has and does continue to sponsor multiple events and groups within Vernon and outlying communities. We love to give back throughout the year by donating, fundraising and helping out- it is because of our amazing customers that we can do this.
Clinics
We collaborate with others, as well as operate Learn To Run Clinics, and a 10 Km Run Clinic. If you are interested give the store a call and we will let you know when the next one is starting
Starting Block Run Club -meets twice a week starting at the Store and runs a designated route each week. There is not cost just, drop in and meet us at 6:00 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The runs are about 5-6 km long, the route is posted on the SBRC Strava Run Club page.
Why buy From the Starting Block
- We ask questions and take time to learn about what you need the shoes for
- We listen and attempt to understand your concerns
- We guarantee the right shoe, if you take it home and it doesn’t work bring it back – our goal is for you to be as Happy as your feet in your shoes
- Buying shoes online is tempting, but it is also a risk that you will not get the right shoe for you or the right fit. Unfortunately, AI and computer generated analysis cannot tell you what will feel right for your shoe.
- All brands change their models, some do so every year- the upper fabrics change, the sole of the shoe changes and sometimes what worked previously will not work for you today.
- We keep track of what you buy along with notes on why you bought it
We offer amazing customer service- check out our review on google
The Starting Block has been providing running expertise to residents of the North Okanagan, Shuswap and Revelstoke for 17+ years. We are dedicated to providing a personalized experience and finding the right fit for your foot.
Hours
Store hours are
Tuesday – Saturday 10AM -5PM
Check out our Facebook page for more information.
Where to find us
3100 29 Ave, Vernon, BC V1T 1Z1
PHONE: 250-541-9232
EMAIL: [email protected]