Runners who put in a lot of miles go through heaps of shoes. Marathoners will wear out six or more pair a year. With today's high-end shoe prices ranging from $100 to $160, a dedicated runner may have to take out a second mortgage to keep properly shod.
Buying the right shoe at the right price is incredibly important to the person who takes their running seriously. Do you go to the local running store or take a chance online? Good question. I've polled several running clubs around the country to gain some
insight into this question. I appreciate all those who contributed to my research. Several factors need to be considered before you make this decision.
1. Are you currently wearing the right shoe? Some runners have discovered the perfect shoe for their feet. Whether by trial and error or conferring with an expert, they have found their dream shoe which keeps them uninjured and consistently on the road. Many runners, though, are not quite satisfied with the shoe in which they are currently training. They may only be having minor problems, but still, they wonder if there is a better shoe out there somewhere for them. A local running store with knowledgeable employees can be a great help. An expert can look at the tread wear of your old shoe or watch you run down the aisle of the store or along the sidewalk out front and quickly determine if you pronate, supinate, or have a normal foot strike. A good salesperson will also analyze your feet to see if they are unusually wide or narrow, and if you have high or sunken arches. Some online stores do their best to fit you right, but there's nothing like the personal touch, face to face with someone you trust.
2. How important is the local store to your running community? Some communities are blessed with running stores whose owners are not only experts in helping to find you the right shoe but are also dedicated to promoting and developing the sport in their community.They sponsor races, speak at club meetings, contribute door prizes to events, and make it a priority to connect with the running community. Their prices may be higher than the online discount giants, but isn't it worth paying the higher price to help maintain their presence in the community?
3. How big is your wallet? For some people, money is not a big factor. They have a good income, and proper running equipment is such a priority to them that they are not willing to risk an online mistake. For others, though, buying shoes online is the best option financially. Times may be tight, or perhaps they have already found the perfect shoe and know the exact size for that style of shoe. Ordering from a discount store could save them 50% or more. For someone on a tight budget that could mean the difference between buying three pairs of shoes a year or six. And worn out shoes can definitely cause injury.
4. How important is it to buy the latest model? Usually, shoe manufacturers tweak their shoes every year to keep them abreast of the latest technology. Most of the time the changes are minor, but sometimes major alterations occur which, by the way, doesn't always sit right with loyal customers. I'm currently running in Saucony's Triumph 9 (I believe the latest model is the 10 or 11). If you don't mind wearing last year's model, you can save a a bundle of money. Occasionally, local stores will offer last year's model at a deep discount, but because of limited inventory, this opportunity can be hit or miss when you visit the store. I have discovered that many online stores offer great discounts for last year's models (normally 35% to 50%) and are well supplied with plenty of sizes. If you don't mind missing out on the latest technological tweak, then you can save some bucks with last years model.
Online Running Shoe Stores Recommended by Runners
If you have a great local running store, by all means please support it. You are fortunate to have knowledgeable people close by to provide support and expertise to the running community. If for some reason you like to buy your running shoes online, then here is a list of vendors recommended by runners from around the country and the reason the store was recommended. To check prices, just click on the link and visit the store. Some stores are better known for customer service and others for deep discounts. The stores are listed in no particular order.
RunningWarehouse.com -- Runners noted that this store offers good selection, free shipping, return shipping, and a shoe fit guide that takes your current shoe and size to determine what size you would wear in another brand. Marathon Maniacs get a 15% discount.Also, one runner suggested to always check online for discount codes.
DickSportingGoods.com -- Runners noted that the shipping was fast, Nikes were available, and that Cyber Monday discounts were great.
Amazon.com -- Since a multitude of vendors sell through Amazon, many runners check prices here. Before buying. It was recommended to make sure the particular vendor offers free returns.
Eastbay.com -- Eastbay has been in business long before the internet arrived. One runner commented that he has been buying from Eastbay since 1987 and often gets great discounts.
FinishLine.com -- Finish Line is known for their coupons and sales. Runners need to know how to check online for coupons or register with them to receive coupons by mail. They also offer reward bonus money for returning customers. Be sure to take advantage of their sale prices when offered.Shipping is free on orders over $50.
RoadRunnerSports.com -- Runners reported that they are known for fast shipping and a 90 day return policy, and great customer service.
JoesNewBalanceOutlet.com -- If you are a New Balance faithful, you may want to check out this outlet store that offers discounts and free shipping for purchases over $75.
KellysRunningWarehouse.com -- A runner reported that this store offers great discounts, sells her favorite shoe (Gel Kayonos), but recommends that you put items in the shopping cart to see the discount.
HolabirdSports.com -- This store is one of my favorites. They offer great deals on last year's models and are currently offering free shipping. Usually your purchase must be $65 or more to receive free shipping.
SierraTradingPost.com -- At this store I find the deepest discounts for my particular shoe, Saucony's Triumph.They have a wide variety of other running shoes, however all their shoes are last year's models. You have to know when to buy because they regular offer special deal days. I subscribe to their "daily deal flyer" so I know when to buy. You should definitely know your brand and size before buying here. They also offer a variety of running clothes here at deep discounts.
Runners also mentioned they had great buying experiences at the following stores:
Zappos.com --
NewtonRunning.com --
OnlineShoes.com --
ZombieRunner.com --
Happy shopping!
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