Best of Boston

2011 Best Running Shop

Marathon Sports

Here road warriors can find the latest shoes; outerwear built to withstand the elements; and a multitude of accessories and performance-boosting extras. What puts Marathon out in front, however, is the education it throws in for free: Come in with a question about how to relieve shin splints, for instance, and staffers will analyze your gait and quickly list the top potential causes—then advise you on the footwear that might ease your pain.

671 Boylston St., Brookline, 617-735-9373, marathonsports.com