Business Details
38 Years
experience
Specialist Running Trainers & Apparel in Derby
The Derby Runner is a specialist running store established in 1988, dedicated to providing high-quality running trainers, clothing, and accessories for runners of all levels. Founded by Pete Calladine and Christine, the business is now owned and operated by Rob Jefferies and Elaine Walker, who bring decades of running experience and technical expertise to the forefront. Our team comprises passionate runners with extensive knowledge of biomechanics, sports science, and product technology, ensuring customers receive tailored advice and support.We pride ourselves on offering a curated selection of brands like Asics, Brooks, HOKA, and Saucony, alongside cutting-edge running apparel and equipment. With both physical and online stores, we deliver competitive pricing, expert gait analysis, and a commitment to enhancing every runner's journey. Our mission remains unchanged: to combine personal service with technical excellence, fostering a community-driven approach to running since our inception.
Services
Running Trainers
Running Clothing
Accessories
Gait Analysis
Online Store
Brand Selection
Technical Support
Event Participation
Product Testing
Customer Service
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of experience in specialist running retail.
- Our team includes competitive athletes with sports science qualifications.
- We offer free gait analysis for personalized footwear recommendations.
- We stock over 50 running brands including Asics, Brooks, and HOKA.
- We provide expert technical advice on all running equipment.
Services
Running Trainers
We offer a comprehensive selection of running trainers from leading brands including Asics, Brooks, HOKA, and Saucony. Our range caters to neutral and supportive needs across everyday running, race day performance, trail running, and carbon-plated options. Each pair is carefully chosen to provide optimal comfort, durability, and technical performance for runners at every level.
Running Clothing
Our running clothing collection features technical tops, shorts, tights, and jackets designed for performance and comfort. Brands like 2XU, OMM, and Inov-8 provide moisture-wicking fabrics, weather protection, and ergonomic designs suitable for all seasons and running conditions, from track to trail environments.
Gait Analysis
We provide free gait analysis to help runners find their perfect footwear match. Our qualified staff use observational techniques and pressure analysis to assess running mechanics, ensuring recommendations address individual biomechanical needs for improved performance and injury prevention.
Accessories
We stock essential running accessories including GPS watches, hydration systems, compression wear, and recovery tools. Our selection balances technical functionality with comfort, featuring brands like Garmin, Goodr, and Feetures to support runners before, during, and after their training sessions.
Online Store
Our online platform offers the same expert-curated product range as our physical store, with detailed descriptions and filtering options. Customers benefit from free UK delivery on orders over 100, Klarna financing options, and access to exclusive online discounts across running footwear, apparel, and equipment.
People
Rob Jefferies
Director
Rob has directed The Derby Runner since 2014 after 14 years as a team member. A former national-standard middle-distance runner with a degree in Exercise Physiology, he combines technical expertise with business leadership to maintain the store's specialist running focus.
Elaine Walker
Co-Owner
Elaine has worked at The Derby Runner since 2016, bringing 20 years of informal involvement through event support and store assistance. A former competitive 10K runner, she focuses on customer service and operational management while maintaining the store's running community connections.
Matt
EPOS & Website Manager
Matt has worked at The Derby Runner since 2019, combining his high-level middle-distance running experience with technical expertise. He manages digital operations and provides specialist advice on running biomechanics, drawing from his sports science master's degree and ongoing research.
Carolyn
Sports Bra Adviser
Carolyn joined the team in 2005, bringing ultra-running experience and marathon achievements. She specializes in sports bra fittings and understands the challenges of balancing running with family life, offering practical advice to recreational athletes.
Chris
Team Member
Chris has been part of The Derby Runner since 2014, transitioning from a 5K beginner to ultra-marathon competitor. He provides approachable advice for new runners while supporting trail running equipment selections based on personal off-road experience.
Questions
What running shoe brands do you stock?
We stock major running shoe brands including Asics, Brooks, HOKA, New Balance, Saucony, Altra, and On Running, with both neutral and supportive options.
Do you offer gait analysis services?
Yes, we provide free gait analysis to help determine your running style and recommend appropriate footwear based on biomechanical needs.
Can I buy running gear online?
Yes, our online store offers the full range of running trainers, clothing, and accessories with UK delivery over £100 qualifying for free shipping.
What running clothing options are available?
We offer technical running tops, shorts, tights, jackets, and accessories from brands like 2XU, OMM, and Inov-8 in both men's and women's sizes.
Do you have running accessories and equipment?
Yes, we stock GPS watches, hydration vests, compression gear, recovery tools, and running-specific electronics to support comprehensive training needs.
