FAQ - Is There a Running Store in Marrakech?

One question I am often asked by people visiting or planning to visit is, “Are there running stores in Marrakech?” or “I forgot my shoes back home, can I buy running shoes in Morocco?”

The direct answer is, no.

To be technical the answer is, not really. There are no running specific stores here in town that, I know of. I say that I know of, because in my more than six years here in Marrakech I've never found one. 

The good news is that you can still find running gear in Marrakech. The city is growing very rapidly and new kinds of stores are opening all the time. When I moved here a few years ago there were only a few small sporting goods stores (think general purpose sports gear), now Marrakech has several modern sports stores but still no "running specific" stores. Many of these stores now carry running clothing and shoes most of which is Nike and Adidas. Also, there is now a small Decathlon (European sports store chain) opening next to the Marjane on the way into town from Casablanca.  

If your currently in Marrakech and looking for some running shoes or clothing your best off going to Decathlon. There you will find a decent selection of road running shoes and a few trail shoes (though if you have bigger feet you may struggle to find your size). They also carry a decent selection of running clothes and accessories for both men and women at decent prices. Decathlon also has gear for cycling, hiking, and many other sports and activities. 

My recommendation is that if you’re planning a visit to Marrakech bring what you need. This I what I'd recommend for you to if you plan to travel anywhere. A lot of us runners are very particular about the kinds of shoes we run in or clothes we wear so it's best to be prepared but in the case you do accidentally forget something you need there is still a chance you'll be able to find it for your run in Marrakech. 

If you've visited in the past and happen to know of a running specific store in Marrakech let us know in the comments below. 

Run During COP22 2016 in Marrakech

  Marrakech is currently hosting the 2016 UN Climate Change Conference, COP22. The city is packed with guests and visitors from all over the world. Over the last week we have really enjoyed being able to run with many of the guests visiting Marrakech for the conference. Running tours are always a fun green way of getting to know a new city. 

  Conferences are always a great way to get some walking in but if you're still in town and want to really stretch your legs while seeing the city in a unique way, look into joining us for one of our runs. We offer runs of 5k, 10k, 13k, and more. You can see all we offer here on our tours page.

 To register simply fill out our registration form and we will get back to you very soon.

  We hope everyone here for COP22 has enjoyed their time in Marrakech and will come back for another visit. 

What Should Women Wear When Running in Morocco?

   "I'm coming to Morocco next week and don't know what is okay for me to wear as a women, any advice?

  Well, there's no need to wonder any longer. Here is some advice to help you in deciding what to wear while running in Morocco.

  In all the time I have lived here I have never heard about a rule dictating what females can or can't wear while running in Morocco.  Every year Marrakech holds a marathon and the clothing that the women runners wear is always very diverse. There are ladies wearing full track suits with head coverings and others in shorts or capri pants or tights and t-shirts or tank tops. I do see women wearing shorts while running and often out of respect for the culture their shorts are not really short and tight.

  While we recommend that you wear what is comfortable to you it is also wise to respect the culture as well. Shorts or capries/tights and a running t-shirt are more than appropriate. If you were running outside of a big city, like in a village or countryside, it would likely be wise to wear pants but here in the city, like (Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, etc.) it would not be a necessity. Remember, Marrakech is full of tourists so there is a wide range of how people dress here.

   This advice comes from our experience living here and observing others. Like I said before there are no rules or laws dictating how to dress while running in Morocco so this post is just the advice I give to people whenever I am asked by people signing up for one of our guided runs through the city of Marrakech.

  Signing up for one of our running tours is a great way to get out for a run on your next holiday in Marrakech. Whether you're looking for someone to just show you around for your first run or for a running partner for your entire time in Marrakech we have the runs for you. Pick your distance(s) and let us plan your runs. All of our guides live here and know their way around both the city and the culture, which enables you to be able to relax and just enjoy your run. Check out what kinds of runs we offer here and you can register here.

   Now pack your running clothes and plan to run while in Morocco.