Why Go to a Specialty Running Store for Running Shoes?

I remember my first pair of running shoes. I had read in a magazine article that the way to prevent injury was to buy good running shoes, and that any good running shoe would cost between $90-$130. A light bulb went on. I could prevent injury and potentially be a better runner, all in a shoe? Off I went.

My first stop was a huge multi-sport center. I breezed past the canoes, golf clubs, treadmills, and in-line skates. Scanning the display wall of shoes, I looked for something expensive because I thought that meant it must be a better brand or a better shoe. I naturally picked the shoe I thought looked the best, with the best complimentary color scheme, something I could "match" with any one of my "running outfits."

Then I looked around, huffed and puffed, and all but threatened to blow down the display wall if I couldn't get some help. My help finally arrived. He came from the tents and camping equipment section.

Was it a hideous experience? No, not exactly hideous. Did I get help? Yes. The nice man went back to look for the shoe I picked out. Was there a problem here? I didn't think so, but any knowledgeable running store employee would have told me otherwise. This whole scenario was a problem.

First of all, you don't buy shoes because of the color or style! You don't buy shoes because you think the more they cost, the better they must be! And finally, you don't buy shoes because they'll match your outfit!

Lucky for me, the mega multi-sport center didn't have the half size I needed, and I didn't buy those shoes. The man helping me generously recommended a local specialty running store so that I could have the shoes that day. I remember wondering if that meant the shoes would cost even more.

Answer? No. I found out within the hour they wouldn't cost more at the specialty running store. They actually cost less.

At the running store, the clerk asked me all about my running experience. Where do I run? How often? What type of surface? How far? I thought he was just making conversation. I found out later he had been assessing my individual needs. He looked at my feet and my old running shoes. Then he started bringing out boxes and asking more questions.

"How do they feel? What do you like about these? What don't you like?"

He asked me to run the length of the store. At first I was embarrassed. Why was he watching me run? It turns out everyone has a different running style, and this is an important assessment. You should expect this at any reputable running specialty store. By the time I left, I felt like I had the best possible pair of running shoes for my overpronating, flat, narrow feet.

I learned a lot about my feet and about running in general. I also learned something about these knowledgeable running store employees. These are the people who know the latest in shoe design and performance. They are typically runners like you and me. They work there because they love running and they love helping other runners run better. Running specialty stores can also serve as a center for your local running community. This is the place to find local running groups, information on training and upcoming races or fun runs.

I consider myself lucky that the super sports center didn't have my shoe size. If you're reading this, you should consider yourself lucky, too. I did all of the research for you. Now, hurry. Run, don't walk, to your favorite running specialty store! I recommend visiting the folks at Running Centers for Running & Jogging Shoes.