(Shopped 09/23/24 MO @ 1:30pm): Run - don't walk - to this outlet store for your Asics running…read moregear!
It was time to finally buy a new pair of everyday running shoes, so I placed an online order with my favorite athletic shoe brand, and had it shipped for pick up at the Asics Outlet's Commerce location. I've been a diehard Asics fan for nearly 30 years because of their high durability (each of my pairs have lasted me about five years), the way they fit like a glove on my feet, the stylish color schemes, and their comparable prices (running shoes were freaking expensive!). Although you were able to find Asics shoes in almost all footwear retailers and sporting goods stores, I believed their only standalone brick & mortar were outlet stores like this one which happened to be the closest to me. Were the shoes and this outlet worth the drive to continue my running ways!?
PURCHASE
Gel-Kayano 31 Standard Mens Running Shoe Rich Navy/Spice Latte Size 10.5 ($165.00): Blue was my favorite color, the pairing of the other colors, and this kind of had that Superman suit mixed with 'Merica pride, were the reasons it caught my eye. The cushioning was amazing, the sole was thicker than I was used to which felt like I was literally running/walking on clouds, it held my feet perfectly, and it supported my ankles wonderfully! This pair was awesome on so many levels! At this particular time, this was the most I've ever spent on a pair of shoes (I spent less than this on a new pair of my most recent beloved Doc Martens). All that could be said was, "my happy feet were strolling to a joyful beat every step of the way"! https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&select=xfE5w1RVVmyKlx0X10EDSw
SERVICE
The online ordering process was a breeze. I eventually received a confirmation email and text that the item was ready for pick up. When I arrived, my new kicks were presented to me minutes later after a verification check. Also, this specific location accepted online returns if you didn't want to mail anything back yourself. Everything was easy and quick - thank you!
PARKING (FREE)
Located inside the Citadel Outlets outdoor shopping mall, there were ample spots throughout this expansive place (I believed there was also a valet) - 'nuff said.
ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE
A roomy store that maximized its space efficiently from display tables and rack shelving filled with caps, clothes and shoes, peg boards that held shoelaces and socks, and a blend of clothes and shoes displayed along all walls. Plenty of graphics and promotional ads covered the walls while everything was perfectly labeled. Plenty of natural lighting came through the large front windows and doors while a ton of electric ceiling lights filled in the rest. There were no TVs, but Top-40 music played in the background. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&select=9zyjfYYsspeaYakbYhqqmA
ATTIRE
Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops.
OVERALL
Commerce's Citadel Outlets Asics Outlet location served its purpose, and I would consider visiting them again if I needed to place another online order (usually, I was fortunate enough to find a pair I liked in retail stores closer to me). The shoes kicked ass (pun intended!), the store was well-maintained, and the service was easy and straightforward. I couldn't recall their exact location, so I suggest you check out one of the many directories at the mall, and parking was a breeze. I found complete value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $180.00 BEFORE any discounts and/or tip). And, they accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 5.0 STARS