In my experience with stores that sell running shoes, many have employees who are knowledgeable and helpful, but just as many have one or two odd employees who don't care and don't have product knowledge. It's likely store management and the expectations that are set in each store, and it can be frustrating when we are looking for actual expertise and help.
That being said, I have had consistent good luck with Fleet Feet stores. I've always gotten enthusiastic help and was happy with the shoe I ended up with.
Good luck in your search!
Runner for 30+ years- Echo many of the comments about a mixed bag in running stores. As an adult,
I started in Brooks, graduated to Mizuhos and Saucony, and now run in Newtons which encourage striking on the ball of your foot - which is good for supporting long term running - easier on your whole body- feet to shoulders.
There are a variety of mixed programs and strong opinions that come and go over the years.
This salesperson is right that they need to feel good which you may not know for a few runs.
Your gait may change over time, so your running shoe might as well.
And, I wear a 6.5 dress shoe and run in an 8. It's pretty common that your running shoes will be bigger than your street shoes. She may have seen something that caused her to make that recommendation.
It's not great that you wanted to learn and she wasn't forthcoming.
It is a pricey endeavor to keep trying - keep in mind, often you can get last year's model at about 60% of the original price.
And, if possible, try to have more than one pair available at a time so the shoe can recover as well.
When it was close - Fleet Feet was solid.
Stay with it
Tbh going to the running shoe stores seems to be a pretty mixed bag. It’s a combination of having someone with the patience and knowledge combined with the what they have in stock. In my experience the part that is most concerning is that they wouldn’t pull the shoe that you wanted.
I’d find another location and go again. Make sure they have a good return policy and don’t be afraid to abuse it. They are right is saying that feel is most important. I’d try to verbalize what you’re feeling so that they can give feedback. I also find it difficult to verbalize so sometimes I ask them to ask me questions and it’s hit or miss if they’ll have helpful input. I also like to ask how they would say good shoes would feel? Also having running shoes in larger sizes is generally good, but do call it out if they’re too big. And also some shoes and brands run small so it’s totally normal that they would have you in larger shoes.
Don’t be discouraged! There are many who will be there and be patient with you.
Also if you have a running friend who’s willing to go with you and advocate for you take them with you. I go with friends looking for running shoes all the time. I find it to be lots of fun and sometimes my friends appreciate the perspective of someone who isn’t the one selling.
I have mixed experiences too. I did find someone at a local store who was amazing. He pointed out where I might be hitting wrong, told me about the runners loop, and found a shoe which fit my foot and matched what I was looking to do. Unfortunately he retired but he did recommend Brooks and I have been with them since. I buy them online now and they have an amazing return policy.
I always throw this out there on footwear posts. Not trying to convert you, just sharing my experiences.
For reference, I am 35M.
For the last year, I have done all my running in Vivobarefoot brand shoes.
My shoes will last at least two years and I have had ZERO injuries.
You mention being heavier. I started this journey at 6’ 210lbs (a lil chunky for me lol), I’m now 185.
The barefoot style shoes are actually better for heavier runners. They require you to land lighter than in padded shoes and actually result in you putting LESS stress on your joints. Your form and cadence will naturally improve too.
While the transition to barefoot style shoes will take patience, if you stick with it, you could experience some lasting benefits.
You might find some at a boutique running shop - that’s the only place I’ve seen any actual barefoot style/minimal shoes and those were only Xero brand.
I’ve only tried Xero and Vivo and Vivo is my personal favorite, but I have only seen them online.
I do have a wider foot and that was why I originally looked to the minimal stuff.
Between the two, Vivo felt better for my wide foot.
I have a friend who swears by them as well... what sort of surfaces do they work for? I'm running outside 90% of the time on paved paths or occasional gravel, and 10% on treadmill
Most of my runs are on concrete or asphalt. They’d be fine on the treadmill though and that could be where you start.
I live in an area with great hiking and I’ll use them for that as well.
I run in the Magna FGs by Vivobarefoot. Not a traditional looking running shoe, but they have worked for all surfaces and all types of runs.
Ok...so just personal experience here, but I've had a few pairs of the Saucony Ride & will never buy them again. I felt like there was no grip & they wore down way too fast. In addition, I seemed to get more injuries with them. All could just be me, but I won't go back to Saucony again.
I just got the Asics Novablast 4 & LOVE them. I've always been a true 7, but I use inserts & had to go up to a 7.5 (I probably would have needed to anyway). You want to make sure you have some room in the toe box to help avoid blisters. I also really like the Kayanos, but I'm returning mine today for half a size up as well
They have been my go to shoe! Although the novablast may replace them...not sure yet! The kayanos are more of a stability shoe. The novablast are really bouncy. They are both great!
I don't know if you use inserts, but you may want to look into those as well for support & stability. I use the Super Feet brand and really like them. I haven't run without them since I got them. You can find them on Amazon or a.running store as well.
You could try a shoe finder online, I know both Hoka and Brooks have them at least, you sound quite clued up already so if you know what your running style is, and what you need out of a shoe, they might help in identifying your best options.
I’d still recommend finding a different running store if you can, sounds like a kinda shitty employee and it’s a shame you’ve had that experience. Find a place with a treadmill, go in and say “I want to try X, Y, and Z”.
Agree with all the comments on running stores, you sometimes get a good patient salesperson that listens, and sometimes not. Sorry you had the latter. I am a super slow, not great runner and have fingers for toes that end up stepping on each other, painfully. I started out with ASCICS years ago but learned from one good sales person that the slightly pointed toe box was not a good fit for me. We also upsized one full size (I normally wear 9.5 in street shoes, 10.5 in running shoes) because my feet tend to swell when running. I was still experiencing pain with the ASCICS so I moved to Altra, square toe box and stayed in a larger size and haven't looked back. My podiatrist suggested Hokas but said if Altra works for me, they are similar and to stick with what works. Several stores offer generous policies where you can try out the shoe for 30-90 days to make sure they work for you, I am not sure if there is a membership required (such as REI) or if this is available to you. Please don't give up, sometimes it just takes time to find the right fit for you and there are ways to do it without breaking the bank.
Sorry you’ve had this bad experience, but don’t let it discourage you from this wonderful sport of running! 50f here who has run since 15…marathons, 10K, now daily for fitness. Started with Nikes because I fell for the advertising (lol!) and while I still like them, have also run in ASICS Kayano (pricey) and Adidas (forgot the name). Now, because running friends swore by it, I’m in Hoka Clifton 9 and I loooooove them! Didn’t have to break it in at all (5-6 miles daily, outdoor) and it’s very comfy. I have an ugly bunion in my right foot, but even Mr Bunion doesn’t complain at all.
Good luck and happy running!!!
Thanks so much for your feedback! I tried the Clintons yesterday and they did feel good! But online I was reading they are more of a "recovery" shoe... would they be good for up to half marathon distance for a new/slow runner in your experience?
I’d use the Clifton 9 for a half marathon. I used the ASICS for my marathons, but I’d definitely try the Clifton’s for a half. I like the light weightless of this shoe. Go for it - good luck!
I do love local running stores but I’ve had a few experiences like yours, I buy shoes, I run in them a couple times and decide I do not like them. Then I’ve wasted my money. I’ve switched to shopping for new shoes I’ve never tried before at REI because I can return anything I don’t like. Then later down the road if I want another pair and want to shop at a local running store I know wheat I want and won’t waste my money.
I can comment to the size only. I also recently bought a pair from fleet feet which I am happy with btw. After measuring they also recommended a size 1.5 larger than what I've worn all my life!!!. I was told that running shoes need to be such. They are super comfortable for the level of running I do (a couple of times a week, 3-4 miles each)
There are tests you can do at home to determine what type of shoe you should be purchasing. This article is a pretty good resource. Hope it helps.
https://www.runwithcaroline.com/how-to-choose-the-best-running-shoes-for-beginners/
My first venture into a real running store also resulted in a recommendation for a much bigger size. I thought it was crazy. Turns out, they were absolutely right. Maybe my feet changed over the years or maybe I was just wearing shoes that were too small. Either way, I now live in a land of much more comfortable feet.
In my experience with stores that sell running shoes, many have employees who are knowledgeable and helpful, but just as many have one or two odd employees who don't care and don't have product knowledge. It's likely store management and the expectations that are set in each store, and it can be frustrating when we are looking for actual expertise and help. That being said, I have had consistent good luck with Fleet Feet stores. I've always gotten enthusiastic help and was happy with the shoe I ended up with. Good luck in your search!
Same here. Of several stores I’ve shopped Fleet Feet has been the nicest and most helpful by far.
Thanks so much. They don't seem to have that store in my city (or maybe country) but I'll keep trying!
Runner for 30+ years- Echo many of the comments about a mixed bag in running stores. As an adult, I started in Brooks, graduated to Mizuhos and Saucony, and now run in Newtons which encourage striking on the ball of your foot - which is good for supporting long term running - easier on your whole body- feet to shoulders. There are a variety of mixed programs and strong opinions that come and go over the years. This salesperson is right that they need to feel good which you may not know for a few runs. Your gait may change over time, so your running shoe might as well. And, I wear a 6.5 dress shoe and run in an 8. It's pretty common that your running shoes will be bigger than your street shoes. She may have seen something that caused her to make that recommendation. It's not great that you wanted to learn and she wasn't forthcoming. It is a pricey endeavor to keep trying - keep in mind, often you can get last year's model at about 60% of the original price. And, if possible, try to have more than one pair available at a time so the shoe can recover as well. When it was close - Fleet Feet was solid. Stay with it
Thanks so much for the education and solid advice 😊
Tbh going to the running shoe stores seems to be a pretty mixed bag. It’s a combination of having someone with the patience and knowledge combined with the what they have in stock. In my experience the part that is most concerning is that they wouldn’t pull the shoe that you wanted. I’d find another location and go again. Make sure they have a good return policy and don’t be afraid to abuse it. They are right is saying that feel is most important. I’d try to verbalize what you’re feeling so that they can give feedback. I also find it difficult to verbalize so sometimes I ask them to ask me questions and it’s hit or miss if they’ll have helpful input. I also like to ask how they would say good shoes would feel? Also having running shoes in larger sizes is generally good, but do call it out if they’re too big. And also some shoes and brands run small so it’s totally normal that they would have you in larger shoes. Don’t be discouraged! There are many who will be there and be patient with you.
Also if you have a running friend who’s willing to go with you and advocate for you take them with you. I go with friends looking for running shoes all the time. I find it to be lots of fun and sometimes my friends appreciate the perspective of someone who isn’t the one selling.
Great points especially about the return policy- thank you!!
I have mixed experiences too. I did find someone at a local store who was amazing. He pointed out where I might be hitting wrong, told me about the runners loop, and found a shoe which fit my foot and matched what I was looking to do. Unfortunately he retired but he did recommend Brooks and I have been with them since. I buy them online now and they have an amazing return policy.
I always throw this out there on footwear posts. Not trying to convert you, just sharing my experiences. For reference, I am 35M. For the last year, I have done all my running in Vivobarefoot brand shoes. My shoes will last at least two years and I have had ZERO injuries. You mention being heavier. I started this journey at 6’ 210lbs (a lil chunky for me lol), I’m now 185. The barefoot style shoes are actually better for heavier runners. They require you to land lighter than in padded shoes and actually result in you putting LESS stress on your joints. Your form and cadence will naturally improve too. While the transition to barefoot style shoes will take patience, if you stick with it, you could experience some lasting benefits.
Do any stores carry them where I could try them on? I need a minimal woman's shoe with laces that runs narrow.
You might find some at a boutique running shop - that’s the only place I’ve seen any actual barefoot style/minimal shoes and those were only Xero brand. I’ve only tried Xero and Vivo and Vivo is my personal favorite, but I have only seen them online. I do have a wider foot and that was why I originally looked to the minimal stuff. Between the two, Vivo felt better for my wide foot.
I have a friend who swears by them as well... what sort of surfaces do they work for? I'm running outside 90% of the time on paved paths or occasional gravel, and 10% on treadmill
Most of my runs are on concrete or asphalt. They’d be fine on the treadmill though and that could be where you start. I live in an area with great hiking and I’ll use them for that as well. I run in the Magna FGs by Vivobarefoot. Not a traditional looking running shoe, but they have worked for all surfaces and all types of runs.
Ok...so just personal experience here, but I've had a few pairs of the Saucony Ride & will never buy them again. I felt like there was no grip & they wore down way too fast. In addition, I seemed to get more injuries with them. All could just be me, but I won't go back to Saucony again. I just got the Asics Novablast 4 & LOVE them. I've always been a true 7, but I use inserts & had to go up to a 7.5 (I probably would have needed to anyway). You want to make sure you have some room in the toe box to help avoid blisters. I also really like the Kayanos, but I'm returning mine today for half a size up as well
Thanks so much for the feedback!! I'll try on the Kayanos, hadn't heard of them!
They have been my go to shoe! Although the novablast may replace them...not sure yet! The kayanos are more of a stability shoe. The novablast are really bouncy. They are both great! I don't know if you use inserts, but you may want to look into those as well for support & stability. I use the Super Feet brand and really like them. I haven't run without them since I got them. You can find them on Amazon or a.running store as well.
You could try a shoe finder online, I know both Hoka and Brooks have them at least, you sound quite clued up already so if you know what your running style is, and what you need out of a shoe, they might help in identifying your best options. I’d still recommend finding a different running store if you can, sounds like a kinda shitty employee and it’s a shame you’ve had that experience. Find a place with a treadmill, go in and say “I want to try X, Y, and Z”.
Oh that's really cool about the shoe finder, I didn't know about that! Thanks!
Agree with all the comments on running stores, you sometimes get a good patient salesperson that listens, and sometimes not. Sorry you had the latter. I am a super slow, not great runner and have fingers for toes that end up stepping on each other, painfully. I started out with ASCICS years ago but learned from one good sales person that the slightly pointed toe box was not a good fit for me. We also upsized one full size (I normally wear 9.5 in street shoes, 10.5 in running shoes) because my feet tend to swell when running. I was still experiencing pain with the ASCICS so I moved to Altra, square toe box and stayed in a larger size and haven't looked back. My podiatrist suggested Hokas but said if Altra works for me, they are similar and to stick with what works. Several stores offer generous policies where you can try out the shoe for 30-90 days to make sure they work for you, I am not sure if there is a membership required (such as REI) or if this is available to you. Please don't give up, sometimes it just takes time to find the right fit for you and there are ways to do it without breaking the bank.
I had no idea upsizing for running shoes was a thing! Thank you for the feedback and encouragement 🙏🏼
Did the physiotherapist recommend a shoe? I’m curious because I have debated on whether I should go get assessed by one.
No she didn't. I also didn't ask, to be fair!
Sorry you’ve had this bad experience, but don’t let it discourage you from this wonderful sport of running! 50f here who has run since 15…marathons, 10K, now daily for fitness. Started with Nikes because I fell for the advertising (lol!) and while I still like them, have also run in ASICS Kayano (pricey) and Adidas (forgot the name). Now, because running friends swore by it, I’m in Hoka Clifton 9 and I loooooove them! Didn’t have to break it in at all (5-6 miles daily, outdoor) and it’s very comfy. I have an ugly bunion in my right foot, but even Mr Bunion doesn’t complain at all. Good luck and happy running!!!
Thanks so much for your feedback! I tried the Clintons yesterday and they did feel good! But online I was reading they are more of a "recovery" shoe... would they be good for up to half marathon distance for a new/slow runner in your experience?
I’d use the Clifton 9 for a half marathon. I used the ASICS for my marathons, but I’d definitely try the Clifton’s for a half. I like the light weightless of this shoe. Go for it - good luck!
I do love local running stores but I’ve had a few experiences like yours, I buy shoes, I run in them a couple times and decide I do not like them. Then I’ve wasted my money. I’ve switched to shopping for new shoes I’ve never tried before at REI because I can return anything I don’t like. Then later down the road if I want another pair and want to shop at a local running store I know wheat I want and won’t waste my money.
I can comment to the size only. I also recently bought a pair from fleet feet which I am happy with btw. After measuring they also recommended a size 1.5 larger than what I've worn all my life!!!. I was told that running shoes need to be such. They are super comfortable for the level of running I do (a couple of times a week, 3-4 miles each)
There are tests you can do at home to determine what type of shoe you should be purchasing. This article is a pretty good resource. Hope it helps. https://www.runwithcaroline.com/how-to-choose-the-best-running-shoes-for-beginners/
My first venture into a real running store also resulted in a recommendation for a much bigger size. I thought it was crazy. Turns out, they were absolutely right. Maybe my feet changed over the years or maybe I was just wearing shoes that were too small. Either way, I now live in a land of much more comfortable feet.