Discovering Riovana: A Heightened Experience

 I got really excited.

And that's an understatement.

You see I recently got invited to take a peek at the latest retail store in the block:

Riovana.

So I wasted no time in preparing my outfit for the said event. 

Of course, I am always prepared. 

My chosen pair is the one from Pedro. 

My first one from the said brand.:) Got it from Vietnam.:)

A yellow and blue number that emits a happy and elegant vibe at the same time.

Such an eye candy!

But apart from its yummy color combination, I also adored its denim skin.

Casually trendy. 

It would definitely go well with my ensemble.

See for yourself.:)

So off I went to the said event.

I found out that Riovana was actually the brainchild of Coach Rio Dela Cruz, one of the institutions in the running industry to date.

The name itself was lifted from the owner's (Rio) and nir(VANA), which means a state of enlightenment and transcendence.

Coach Rio's vision is to actually provide a heightened experience for all runners and enthusiasts alike by providing each and everyone the proper tools, knowledge and facilities essential for running.

I was greeted by a street-inspired facade. Quite unique.:)

Of course I still had to register like the others to get my loot bag. Haha!

Then I saw this lady running like crazy on a seemingly harmless treadmill. 

Apparently, this will be the start of the Sole Journey.

She was demonstrating the Gait Analysis, a 3-cam set up that allows one to find out the perfect shoes to match one's feet and running style.

Believe me, there are plenty to choose from! 

Sole Searching from this point here on. :)

Well apart from footwear, Riovana also carries apparel brands...

accessories...

sports nutrition...

and of course, water and energy drinks! Haha! All in one store! 

But mind you though, Riovana perhaps is the only retail store that has its own locker room/shower area and members lounge. 

Proves to come in very handy before and after attending marathons. No need to go home sweaty. Not to mention smelly. Haha! 

Ooh goody. Shower looks inviting.:)

With internet access and a very active community board to keep one busy.

Loving it here already. But wait till you get to the second floor.

Sole Healing: An area dedicated to providing various post-run treatments.

A recovery center in a Retail Store! 

Now that's a relaxing treat!

There was a short talk afterwards and a much-awaited raffle.:)

Of course, lady luck wasn't on my side that night. But hey, who cares?

I had a great time. :)

No doubt, after all that I have seen and experienced, Riovana is indeed the Sole (soul) of Running. :)

Check out Riovana at the following addresses: Ground Floor Active Fun Building, 9th avenue corner 28th Street Bonifacio Global City near Honda BGC and at the 3rd Floor of the Regis Center Building, Loyola Heights, Quezon City in front of Ateneo De Manila University.  

Visit www.riovana.com for more details.;)