Specialty Athletic Shoe Stores???

fitnessgalnc
fitnessgalnc Posts: 3 Member
in Health and Weight Loss
Hi. I was just reading some reviews online for running shoes where one of the reviewers stated the following: "I went to a store that specialized in fitting you with the proper sneaker. First you run on a treadmill while they take a video and then tell you which sneakers you should wear according to the way you run.."

And that's how they found the particular shoe they were reviewing. I really need to find a store like this, one that offers more than what a basic sporting goods/athletic store would offer. And yes I'm sure the prices would be higher at a specialized store, but I'm willing and able to pay extra.

Currently I walk on the treadmill 4 days a week for 65 minutes each time at a speed of 3.0. I know that I am capable of going a bit faster, but then my calves and/or the front part of my leg starts to hurt or my feet get numb. I figure it's because I am walking in sneakers that are a couple of years old and worn out. I placed the Dr. Scholl's Active Series Inserts in them and that helped for a while but still I can't do any faster than 3.0 without hurting. I feel that if I were to get some new sneakers with much better support and stability I could improve my daily walks. Right now 3.0 is what I would describe as moderately brisk, but I would like to increase to a speed that's more like "power walking".

P.S. I've never paid attention to what kind of sneakers I bought in the past because I only bought them for casual wear, never for actually working out in. So I really need a good women's walking sneaker now for the 1st time. Thanks.

Does anyone know where I can find a store like I mentioned above? Or perhaps do you think that's too gimmicky and I should just go to a regular store?

Replies

  • Meerataila
    Meerataila Posts: 1,885 Member
    I've been told by more serious runners in my family that it's worth it. Not sure where these stores are even in my area, let alone for you, since I have no clue where you are, but if you're experiencing issues you think are related to your shoe fit, I'd say go for it. Worst thing that happens is you decide the shoes they fit you with are overpriced and/or underwhelming, thank them politely, and walk out.
  • fitnessgalnc
    fitnessgalnc Posts: 3 Member
    I'm in Charlotte, NC. And I guess that's why I was wondering if I'm thinking too much into the whole thing since unlike your family/friends I am far from a professional, just your average everyday gal that hops on the treadmill a few times a week. It just gets really annoying when my legs start to hurt and my feet "fall asleep". I just need to find some really good sneakers.
  • aleggett321
    aleggett321 Posts: 186 Member
    I absolutely think good, well fitted shoes make a difference. I also walk/run on a treadmill and was having a lot of foot and knee issues. I was custom fit as you describe by a small independent running store near me. Pain completely resolved. Try searching "running shoes" or "running store" plus the name of your town. Good luck.
  • Mhgretsch
    Mhgretsch Posts: 259 Member
    my husband and I did this and I felt it was worth it. I'd suggest an internet search specific to your geographic area for running shoe stores. The one we went to is called Roadrunner Sports, but I'm not sure if they'd have on in your area...might just be a west coast chain. good luck!
  • Sabine_Stroehm
    Sabine_Stroehm Posts: 19,263 Member
    It's absolutely worth it to do at least once, if you plan to run at all.

    Google "Charlotte NC running shoe store gait analysis". Don't go to regular sporting goods stores.
  • lemurcat12
    lemurcat12 Posts: 30,886 Member
    Your shoes sound like they are definitely worn out and not good support. I've been told that once the wear starts to show on running shoes they are REALLY over the hill.

    I know a store with locations here, but that won't help you, so I agree with the suggestion to goggle running store and your town. I'd be extremely surprised if there wasn't something like that in Charlotte. Stores like that are good places to find running groups if you ever want that too.
  • nam985
    nam985 Posts: 140 Member
    It is absolutely worth checking out a specialty athletic shoe store. Yes, you will likely pay a bit more than at a generic sporting goods store, but it may not be significantly so. I have three different pairs of running shoes (one for working out outdoors, one for working out indoors, and one for running errands, etc. in), the two for working out cost me $185 per pair from a running store, and the non-workout pair was $140 at a sporting goods store.

    I like to think of well fitting running shoes like a well fitting bra. Sure you could wear a $10 bra from a discount department store, but you will likely be way more comfortable and get a better fit from a $50 from a proper lingerie store.
  • fitnessgalnc
    fitnessgalnc Posts: 3 Member
    Hi all. Great suggestions on the the search terms. I was able to find two specialty companies that are close to both my job and home. They do seem however to focus on runners versus walkers (I guess us walkers are chopped liver huh? :smile: ) but I'm sure they'll still be able to help me. I plan to visit sometime this week and can't wait to chuck my old sneakers.

    Thanks for all the quick responses.

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