By Lisa Martin
The awesome ultra experts at Centurion Running offer more than their highly successful 50 and 100 mile races on some of the best trails in the UK.
Like many other trail runners living away from the hills I've struggled to find anywhere decent to go and shop for a decent range of shoes and other gear. In addition, also like others, I've wasted copious amounts of time and money ordering the wrong shoes online. Luckily there is a solution to this -
the Centurion Ultra Running Bricks and Mortar Store.
Discovery of the Centurion bricks and mortar store felt like Christmas had come early, with the added bonus of being able to purchase a decent quality pair of running socks as opposed to receiving an unneeded pair gifted from a well meaning relative! The bricks and mortar store is a trail runner’s treasure trove, with a truly impressive collection of medals and other race memorabilia to look in awe at alongside the excellent range of products, including one-offs, speciality items and samples.
Image copyright Stuart March
The bricks and mortar store is based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, making it easily accessible for runners from many locations in the south. Staff running the store state that 'the space has been designed so that you can pick our brains on your chosen event(s) and we can take you through the best solutions for your requirements around kit, apparel and footwear'.
Top class service was provided right from the prompt response to my initial enquiry through to the above and beyond ordering of the right shoes in my preferred colour, not that I like to be coordinated at all. James was very accommodating, booking an appointment to suit our schedules, and through some pre-shopping communication made some shoe suggestions in advance and was prepared with suitable shoes for me to try on arrival. As soon as I slipped my feet in, laced up and strolled around the shop I felt certain James’s recommended shoes were 'the ones’ for me to hit the trails in. Testing them later that day proved this. I felt really confident purchasing the trainers, and after a few trial runs took James up on his offer to order another pair and send them to me, this was done really efficiently.
'Before and after' new shoes shot
Visits to the bricks and mortar store are made by booking an appointment which makes the experience even more special by adding to the quality of service. During our visit we received expert advice on hydration packs and drinks for longer runs, among other things. It was a really pleasant and enjoyable shopping experience, and that comes from someone who generally avoids shops.
One of the hydration packs on offer
In addition to the shop, I've also received excellent service purchasing various products from a great selection on the Centurion website. Postage is free or very cheap with quick delivery times too so you can start using the products shortly after ordering at www.centurionultrarunningstore.com. There's even still time to order Christmas gifts either for or from loved ones.
If you're looking to buy good quality trail gear at reasonable prices with expert advice and excellent service then get yourself an appointment booked by visiting their website:
www.centurionultrarunningstore.com or sending an email to store@centurionrunning.com. It's definitely the best shopping experience I've ever had.
