Shopping in Mount Airy

A treadmill might not be the first thing you’d picture in an athletic store, but for the skilled staff of Charlotte Running Co., it’s a key step in the art of finding the perfect fit. After lacing up or sweet-talking on a pair of shoes from Adidas, Nike, Saucony, or Brooks, patrons hop aboard the treadmill, and the ‘gait analysis’ begins. Aided by a video feedback system, the specialists analyze each both the customer’s strides and the performance of the shoes to identify the ideal levels of support and cushioning, as well as the perfect fit–a process made much more precise by seeing the fancy footwear in action.

In addition to running shoes that can help increase speed and safety, Charlotte Running Co. can outfit its patrons in other jog-friendly gear. The FuelBelt keeps much-needed fluids at the ready on long runs, while shirts from Nike and Asics help to keep bodies cool, reducing runners' need to jog in the penguin habitat at their local zoo.

Camcor was founded in 1949—one year after commercial programs debuted on television. In the 63 years since, Camcor has flexed and adapted, staying relevant and cutting edge in spite of the technology industry's rapid pace of change. Today, the retailer continues to sell the best gadgets for the home and office.

Communication devices such headsets, microphones, or soup cans attached to strings help clients relay messages loud and clear. Archival technologies, including digital cameras, memory cards, and film, help clients preserve memories. Camcor also supplies equipment for offices, facilitating digital presentations and shadow-puppet shows with multimedia projectors and screens. As an authorized dealer for 112 brands including Canon, Maxwell, Panasonic, and Zenith, Camcor has access to trainings and information directly from vendors. Camcor backs its products with full warranties.

Like many women and retired manikins, Salice Boutique owner Kristen adored fashion, but wanted affordable, flattering styles she could really wear. She began selling apparel by indie designers out of her spare bedroom, but the business became so popular she decided to open up a true storefront. Her airy boutique, nested inside a white clapboard house, stocks feminine fashions in hard-to-find brands such as Miss Me Jeans, Tulle, Karlie Clothing, and Joyous & Free. Dresses in bold, vibrant prints can go from casual to glamorous with the change of a Lindsay Phillips sandal strap, and handmade jewelry by Lori Snyder brightens outfits with colorful beads, stones, and petrified rainbows.

The husband-and-wife team behind Sweet Dreams Mattress, Inc., Greg and Katy Law, stock their space with a simple goal in mind: to help their customers get a great night's sleep. Plush pillow-top and memory-foam mattresses line their show room, inviting visitors to kick their feet up and find the mattress that best suits their needs. The shop’s preferred mattress brands—including Tempur-Pedic, Serta, Simmons, and Southerland—design mattresses for a variety of sleep styles and preferences. Firm mattresses lend extra back support, and pillow-top mattresses cradle bodies with the softness of a grandmother cloud. Around the shop, bedroom sets, futons, linens, and pillows tempt a one-stop redecoration, which the store's own crew will promptly deliver to homes.