Triathlon / Bike / Running Shops in Chicago
229
Member
313 days
xc800runner posted 6 weeks ago.
Depends on what your'e looking for and how far you're willing to travel. Most people will recommend fleet feet for running shoes/gear. The people know what they are talking about and they have a great selection of whatever. They carry some tri-specific things as well, but aren't as good as some other places. Personally, I know what fits and what I like for running, so I buy my shoes online.
If you need a bike shop downtown, or in the vicinity, you have a few options. Kozy's has a few locations throughout the city, Mission Bay Mutisport has people around who know what's going on with your bikes and treat you pretty well. If you're willing to move around a bit, Element Multisport has a small shop, but an acceptable array of clothing and bike essentials. Their service is second to none in the tri-community, though, and they offer Computrainer sessions. My favorite bike store, for price, service and general enjoyment of riding is Smart Bike Parts, a small storefront about 6 miles NW of downtown on Milwaukee. Not the easiest place to find, and they don't have a ton of stuff in house, but they can get you anything in a matter of a couple days and you'll get it for about 20-30% less than other places around.
I could probably put you in touch with a good prosthetist too, if you're truly in the market for new legs...
40
Member
110 days
Trilosopher posted 6 weeks ago.
My reccomendation is Running Away Multisport in the Bucktown/Wicker park neighborhood (On North Avenue, not super far from downtown). They don't sell bikes or a whole lot of bike equipment, but have a good selection otherwise--only Newton dealer in Chicago I believe. The service there is great and the people are freindly. The Fleet Feet in Old Town (on Wells) is a lot bigger and has a better selection of Tri gear than your typical Fleet Feet, so that's worth checking out as well.
Re. Mission Bay: I bought my wetsuit there and took it back when the zipper broke after 2 swims. They gave me a new one but the guy put up a big stink about it, like he was doing me an unreasonable favor. Also, most of the time when I stop by the people working there hardly acknowledge my existence. They have a pretty good selection of gear, but now I only go there as a last resort. This is just one man's experience though.
41
Member
68 days
mtbke15 posted 6 weeks ago.
There is a good Fleet Feet on North Ave and Wells in Old Town. Not to far from downtown loop area. Has some tri cloths but has a large selection of running cloths and shoes. Also a pretty decent bike shop is On the route on Lincoln Ave and Ashland. A little far from the loop area but they know their stuff and pretty friendly. Bought my road bike there and were great about everything.
"What counts in training is what you do once the pain sets in." John Short, South African Coach
37
Member
193 days
Hawaii 5O posted 6 weeks ago.
Thanks for the advice and offer "I could probably put you in touch with a good prosthetist too, if you're truly in the market for new legs...". I will certainly take a look at a few of the shops mentioned.
I will be in Chicago for a while and there are a few things I need to buy (new legs etc) - can anyone recommend a/some good triathlon, bike and/or running shop/s in the downtown area. Thanks.