5 Best Shopping in Austin, Texas

Austin runners frequent this shop as much for its selection of everything from Asics to Adidas shoes as for the expert advice on which pair to pick. Starting out as a training program back in 2004, Rogue opened a storefront after rousing success and today has two other Austin training centers and another in Cedar Park. Runners can join clubs to train for anything from a 5K to a full marathon, or just join a free community-run with other local runners. The store has a full fuel bar serving smoothies and even beer and wine, along with the hydration and energy snacks you’ll need to hit the happy trails.

With ample trails and roads with generous bike lanes, Austin is home to many serious bicyclists, and this homegrown shop has been outfitting them for more than three decades. Seasoned athletes use Trek as a resource. Not only is the store stocked with clothing and accessories from brands like Pearl, Bontranger, and Endura, it also hosts mountain, road, cyclo-cross, and triathlon clubs so that bicyclists can ride with others in the community. Newer riders will find a helpful staff of bike pros, who are ready and willing to answer questions about their wide selection of bicycles.

South Congress gets more attention from tourists, but stores like this huge, sun-filled and fun-filled outdoor/travel outfitter are why Austinites prize North Lamar as a shopping destination. The local branch of a Texas chain, it carries a lot of the same things you'd find at any REI—backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, running shoes, rugged clothing—but it's much more entertaining. Jazz is on the speakers, the front space is filled with kids' toys (and a few for adults), and there's a good variety of books for all ages. The staff is laid-back, but friendly and ever-willing to help. There is another branch at the Westgate Mall (4477 South Lamar) in south Austin.