You’re driving down Route 31, past the Great Northern Mall—which, let’s be honest, has seen better days—and you see this giant red sign. It’s Runnings. If you aren't from a rural background, you might just think it's another hardware store. You'd be wrong. Runnings Clay New York isn’t just a place to buy a hammer; it is a 100,000-square-foot behemoth that basically functions as a survivalist’s mall, a pet lover’s paradise, and a DIYer’s fever dream all rolled into one. It’s huge.
Honestly, the first time I walked into the Clay location, I was overwhelmed. I went in for a specific grade of bolt and ended up looking at kayaks, Carhartt jackets, and a literal wall of candy. It’s that kind of place. It took over the old Sears space, which is poetic if you think about it. Sears was the original "everything" store, and Runnings has stepped into those shoes with a much grittier, more practical vibe.
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What Is Runnings Clay New York Anyway?
It opened back in 2022, and since then, it has kind of become a local landmark for people in Onondaga County who are tired of the sterile feel of Big Box Depot. Runnings is a family-owned company out of Marshall, Minnesota. They’ve been around since 1947. That’s a long time to figure out what people actually need. They aren't trying to be fancy. They're trying to be useful.
The Clay store is one of their flagship New York locations. It’s massive. You have to understand that this isn't a boutique experience. It’s concrete floors, high ceilings, and aisles that seem to go on forever. But here is the kicker: the staff actually knows where things are. You don't get that "deer in headlights" look when you ask for a specific hydraulic fluid. They get it.
The Inventory Breakdown
If you need a chainsaw, they have a dozen. If you need a toy tractor for a toddler, they have those too. The sporting goods section is particularly intense. We’re talking about a full firearms counter, archery equipment, and enough fishing gear to drain Oneida Lake. It’s a lot.
Then there’s the clothing. You’ve got your standard workwear—Carhartt, Wrangler, Noble Outfitters—but it’s not just for construction sites. It’s heavy-duty stuff that actually lasts. Plus, they carry a surprisingly large selection of footwear. Boots for mud, boots for snow, boots for looking like you own a ranch even if you live in a suburban cul-de-sac.
Why the Local Community Obsesses Over This Specific Spot
Clay is an interesting spot. It’s suburban, sure, but it’s surrounded by serious farmland and people who still do their own repairs. Runnings Clay New York taps into that "do-it-yourself" DNA that defines Central New York.
I talked to a guy in the plumbing aisle last month who drove all the way from Cicero because the local big-name stores were out of the specific well pump he needed. Runnings had three. That’s their secret sauce. They stock deep. They don’t just have one of something; they have a pallet of it.
It’s Not Just for Farmers
People assume if they don't own a tractor, they don't belong there. Wrong.
- The pet section is better than most dedicated pet stores. They have bulk food, high-end brands, and toys that aren't just flimsy plastic.
- The home goods section has stuff you’d actually use. Canning supplies? Check. Heavy-duty kitchen mixers? Yep.
- Seasonal stuff is where they really shine. In the winter, they have more snowblowers and salt than you can shake a shovel at. In the summer, the garden center is a legitimate destination.
The Reality of Shopping at Runnings Clay New York
Let’s talk about the experience. It can be loud. There’s usually some classic rock playing or the sound of someone testing a power tool. It’s a sensory experience.
The prices are fair. You aren't going to find "everything for a dollar" prices because the quality is generally higher. They carry brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Stihl. These aren't throwaway items. You’re paying for stuff that won’t break the second time you use it.
One thing that surprises people is the "General Store" vibe. They have a massive selection of snacks and sodas you can’t find anywhere else. Old-school salt water taffy, weird root beers, and giant bags of nuts. It’s a nostalgic trip while you’re buying motor oil.
The Layout Strategy
The store is roughly divided into zones.
- Automotive and Tools: This is the backbone.
- Sporting Goods: High-end gear for hunters and fishers.
- Clothing: Durable gear for all ages.
- Pet and Animal Health: Everything from cat nip to cattle dewormer.
- Home and Garden: Seasonal rotations that actually reflect the brutal CNY weather.
Comparing Runnings to the Competition
Look, we all know the other stores. You’ve got Tractor Supply and you’ve got the big hardware chains.
Tractor Supply is great, but Runnings is like Tractor Supply on steroids. It’s just bigger. The Clay location specifically benefits from that Sears-sized footprint. You don't feel cramped. You don't feel like you're tripping over other shoppers.
The hardware chains? They’re fine for a lightbulb. But if you need a specific hitch for a trailer or a heavy-duty chicken coop, they usually have to "order it in." Runnings usually has it on the floor.
What to Know Before You Go
First, check the hours. They’re usually open until 8:00 or 9:00 PM, but Sundays close earlier.
Second, check the flyer. Runnings still does a classic paper flyer (and a digital version), and their sales are actually legit. They do "Tax-Free" weekends or "Bucket Sales" where if it fits in the bucket, you get a discount. It sounds gimmicky, but you can save a ton of money on small hardware items.
Third, bring your dog. No, seriously. Runnings is notoriously pet-friendly. It’s a great place to socialize a puppy because of the wide aisles and the generally friendly atmosphere. Just keep them on a leash, obviously.
Addressing the Logistics
The Clay store is located at 3949 Route 31, Liverpool, NY 13090. Yes, it says Liverpool, but everyone calls it Clay. It’s right in that hub of shopping centers. Parking is never an issue because the lot is huge.
If you are looking for specific items like firearms or ammunition, be aware of New York State laws. Runnings follows them to the letter. Don't expect to just walk out with a purchase in ten minutes; there is paperwork, and the staff is very strict about compliance. This is a good thing—it shows they take their responsibility seriously.
Is It Worth the Trip?
If you live in Syracuse, it’s a 15-minute hop. If you’re coming from further out, like Oswego or Auburn, I’d say it’s worth it if you have a list. Don’t go just for one thing. Go when you need to stock up on birdseed, buy a new pair of work boots, and grab a gift for someone who likes the outdoors.
The "hidden" value of Runnings Clay New York is the stuff you didn't know you needed. I once went in for a rake and left with a high-quality cast-iron skillet and a bag of premium grass seed that actually grew in my shady backyard.
Actionable Tips for Your First Visit
To make the most of your time at Runnings Clay New York, keep these practical points in mind:
- Download the App: They often have "App Only" coupons that can shave 10-15% off a big purchase like a grill or a generator.
- Check the Clearance Endcaps: Because they have so much inventory, they cycle through stuff fast. The back-left corners of the store often have deep discounts on seasonal items.
- Ask About Bulk: If you’re buying a lot of fencing or animal feed, ask if there’s a pallet price. Sometimes they’ll cut you a deal if you’re buying in serious volume.
- Inspect the Sporting Goods Counter Early: If you’re there for ammo or specific fishing lures, go there first. Those items sell out fast during peak seasons (like the start of deer season or the spring trout run).
- Measure Your Vehicle: If you’re buying something big—like a gun safe or a kennel—don't assume it fits in your SUV. Measure twice. Runnings doesn't always have a delivery service for every item, so you might need to bring a truck.
Runnings has successfully filled a void in the Clay retail landscape. It provides a rugged, reliable alternative to the increasingly homogenized shopping experience of modern malls. Whether you’re a hobby farmer, a weekend warrior, or just someone who appreciates a store that sells both high-end power tools and locally-made beef jerky, it's a staple worth visiting.