Best of Boston

2007 Best Running Shop

Marathon Sports

There’s a myth that says running requires nothing more than comfortable sneakers and willpower. Untrue: If you’re serious about the sport (or are merely trying to look as if you are), you’re also going to need some sweat-wicking shorts and shirts, a cardiac monitor, several pairs of cushy socks, a hat and/or sunglasses, maybe a windbreaker, and, oh yeah, one of those belts that holds little water bottles. Marathon Sports has all the gear you need, and some you probably don’t. And its running-obsessed staff is clued in and honest enough to help you sort out which is which.

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