The Climbers Shop Shoe Demo Days
April - May 2026
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April - May 2026 〰️
Try Before You Buy!
This Spring we are bringing you a unique chance to try a range of trail running shoes on our Demo Days!
On selected Saturdays throughout April and May 2026 we will have a range of specialist shoes for you to take out on your own run to test fit and performance. Simply pop in, choose your size from a demo pool, head out on your run and pop them back later in the day. Our experienced staff team will be on hand to help with any questions backed up with company representatives and sponsored athletes who can give you all the tech details you need.
In the market for accessories too?
We’ll have representatives from key running accessory brands ready to talk through poles, packs, compasses and wearable tech. You can even take a specialist “Running With Poles” workshop with local running Guide Charlie Sproson to really up your game!
Come and try just one Saturday or come along to them all - we want you to find the best shoes for your feet to enjoy your running adventures!
Saturday 11th April
Saturday 18th April
Saturday 25th April
Saturday 2nd May
Saturday 9th May
Full details of brands attending for each event below:
Saturday 11th April
VJ Shoes
Born in Finland in 1981, VJ shoes offer exceptional durability, superior grip and high quality craftmanship. Our range
Leki Poles
With experience in aircraft construction, Leki’s founder knew how to process aluminum and composites. He used these raw materials to manufacture his first ski poles and launched them on the market in 1970. Today Leki’s quality is renowned and they excel in superlight running and walking poles. Our range
“Walking and Running With Poles” Workshop with Mountain Run
Mountain Run leads in Walking and running with poles, having developed the original course for using poles in ultra’s back in 2013, they really know their onions. This course will be run by Sean Bolland, you can take full advantage of his expertise on this bargain half day workshop. Come on your own, or bring your friends. Max group size: 6. Spaces are limited and booking is necessary. Full details and booking here
Saturday 18th April
La Sportiva Shoes
Produced and designed in a small mountain town at the foot of the Dolomites for almost 100 years, La Sportiva draw on decades of experience handed down through the generations. With this heritage meld new technologies, ideas and innovation to create year round running footwear for all terrain. Our Range
Ultimate Direction Packs & Accessories
For packs, hydration and accessories this US brand has your fast and light adventure sorted. Our range
Saturday 25th April
Scarpa Shoes
90+ years of Scarpa knowledge has created an ultra-technical and lightweight range of trail running shoes designed for short, medium, and long-distance fell running in all types of weather conditions. Our range
Silva Compasses
Come and chat through the basics of traditional navigation - essential when tech batteries die in the cold. Compasses, headtorches, packs and poles; Silva have been sharing their Swedish quality and design since 1933. Our range
Saturday 2nd May
Nnormal Shoes
The new kid on the block, Nnormal shoes arrived on the scene in 2022 designed by world renowned runner Killian Jornet. Shoes that are built to go far and last even longer. Link to range available soon.
Suunto Wearable Tech
Founded in Finland 80 years ago, Suunto’s range of compasses has expanded into some of the most user friendly wearable tech available. It’s subscription free, versatile and used by the worlds running elite. Our Range
** Please note that due to the high value of Suunto watches a deposit of RRP -15% will be required for anyone wishing to test them off the shop premises. This can be paid by cash/card or Apple pay and will be fully refunded on the return of the watch.
Saturday 9th May
OMM Shoes and Packs
With a full range of packs, clothing, poles, sleeping bags and now shoes, the OMM range has evolved from the unique requirements of Original Mountain Marathon. Our Range
Everyone welcome!
#TCSDEMODAYS
You could even try Ali’s Round
Want to know more about running footwear and kit?
You can find a wealth of free info at our Joe Brown Outdoor Academy including Guides, specialist courses and knowledge, or take a listen to our Outdoor Gear Chat Podcasts with tons of advice, chats with industry experts, sponsored athletes, outdoor professionals and even Kit Lists for specific events and routes.
FAQ’s
What time and how long can I borrow the shoes for?
The demo kit will be available to borrow from 10am and must be returned by 4pm at The Climbers Shop, Ambleside. Just select the day (s) with the brand you want to test and then call into the shop to borrow some test gear. A representative from each brand and staff members can help you chose the correct items.
Will there be a full size range of demo running shoes?
Yes, there will be full size ranges in few different styles available on each demo day.
Can I come to all the days?
Yes, come and try on multiple shoes!
What if I am not back by the time the shop closes?
Demo day runs 10am to 4pm. We advise picking your routes accordingly.
Can I leave my personal items somewhere safe while going for a run?
We’re sorry but we can’t allow any bags or personal items to be left on the premises. We advise you to leave valuables safe and secure at home or in your accommodation.
Are these going to be guided groups runs, as I might struggle to keep up!
It is up to you where you go on your demo run; your terrain, you’re pace - just be back at the shop to return your kit by 4pm. Turn up by yourself or with a group of friends and take the kit out for a spin.
I’m interested in the Suunto watch, but have never used one before, will someone be able to help me set it up?
Yes, both a Suunto representative and staff members will be on hand to show you how to use the watch. There will also be 4 runs of different length preloaded onto the watches for you to follow if you wish.
Do you have to book onto the days?
No, no booking is necessary unless you wish to attend the Running with Poles Workshop.
I am interested in the Running with Poles workshop, what does this involve?
The Running with Poles workshop will be run by Mountain Run. This workshop is designed for anyone who is new to running with poles, or who has started to use them already and needs to iron out bad habits or learn the ‘correct’ techniques. Please be aware that you might be moving at slow speeds at some points during the workshop: please account for this in your clothing selection. Check the weather forecast in advance of the course and come prepared. Start and finish is from The Climbers Shop. Book here
Happy running!