Avid runner takes a big step in opening store
After spending 17 years in the corporate world, Paul O'Neill is now taking a different path in opening a retail store catering to runners.
When O'Neill's job in sales management was eliminated about a year ago, the avid runner made the decision to open a specialty running store. He conducted research and found there was a need in Glen Ellyn for the concept. He opened Run Today in early July at 476 N. Main St.
The shop offers shoes, clothing, socks, water bottles and nutritional supplements. He also offers a service to help shoppers find the best shoe for their foot.
O'Neill, 52, says the store caters to the elite athlete as well as the person looking just to walk to stay in shape. He recalled a particular shopper who wasn't sure the store was for her because she had never won anything with her running. He told her, "You win every day when you put on a pair of (athletic) shoes. It's about your health."
O'Neill, of Naperville, started running nearly 25 years ago. He has suffered through knee, back and neck surgeries and understands the importance of wearing the right shoes. He carries an array of popular lines including Asics, New Balance, Mizuno and Saucony. He will soon have Adidas as well.
Foot care and shoe fit are fundamental to creating a positive running experience for runners of all levels, he says. Customers begin the process by having their foot scanned to determine shoe size, arch type and the distribution of weight through the foot. The newer technology at the shop takes the guesswork out of shoe fitting, O'Neill said. Once the foot profile is determined, customers are fitted with a variety of coordinating shoes to provide the best fit and comfort. A video analysis is also performed to ensure the proper adjustments have been made to complement the foot.
O'Neill and his wife, Lorena, run every day.
"We do it for a healthy lifestyle," he said.
Lorena assists in the operation of the new business. The couple is raising three children, David, 11, Carolyn, 14, and Meredith, 16.
The business owners also offer a variety of supplements that are designed for people who are active and healthy. Power bars, general vitamins and recovery powders are included in the mix. They carry the Kylea supplement line.
Paul has partnered with the Glen Ellyn Running Club as well as the Buffalos.
The store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.
For more, check out run-today.com or call (630) 547-0080.
Kim Mikus covers small business and retail. She welcomes comments at kmikus@dailyherald.com.