In Lille, it's hard to escape the running craze. Between multiplying clubs, group outings, and the grand return of the marathon, running seems to have conquered the city. And it couldn't be better timed: Decathlon has just announced the opening of a store entirely dedicated to running, right in the heart of Lille.
A 100% running Decathlon opens in downtown Lille
It's at 44 rue Nationale, just across from Printemps, that the northern retailer has chosen to set up its brand new concept. After Bordeaux and Annecy, Lille is becoming the third French city to welcome a Decathlon Running, a store entirely devoted to running and trail. Across 150 m², there are no bikes, rackets, or camping gear. Here, everything revolves around running, from your first steps to marathon training. And naturally, for a brand born in the North, opening this concept in Lille had a special significance.
Over 50 running shoe models and personalized gait analysis
The new store will offer over 50 running shoe models, accompanied by technical clothing, accessories and sports nutrition products. You'll find notably the innovations from KIPRUN, Decathlon's running and trail brand, as well as several major specialized brands. But the real highlight of the place lies in its services. Customers will be able to enjoy dynamic gait analysis thanks to connected insoles. How does it work? Run for a few minutes with these insoles to analyze your foot strike and running technique. The data will then allow the team to suggest shoes tailored to each person's needs and preferences. The assessment will be offered by appointment, with advice from a team of five staff members, all passionate about running.
Running outings and events for runners
And Decathlon also plans to take advantage of the opening to bring together Lille's running community. The store will regularly host group outings, meetings with local clubs and shoe testing sessions. Starting this Wednesday, October 14th, a first 7-kilometer run is being organized with the Lille running club Macadam Cavale to celebrate the opening. Registration for this outing is already full.
An opening just before the Lille Marathon
The timing couldn't have been better. On October 25, 2026, Lille will host its big marathon, a comeback that's particularly anticipated after more than thirty years away. With 35,000 participants expected for the marathon and half-marathon, the metropolis is preparing for one of its biggest sporting events of the year. And eleven days before the start, Decathlon is offering a new address to the thousands of Lille locals who've caught the running bug. The only question is whether that'll be enough to motivate us to head out for a run in the November rain.
Decathlon Running Lille
44 rue Nationale, 59000 Lille
Opening: Wednesday, October 14, 2026
