Every once in a while the best value isn't the best price.
I'll admit that I'm a bargain shopper; I am diligent about finding the best price after I've identified what I need. I'll also admit that when I walked into Fleet Feet, I had a strong idea of what shoe I needed and knew exactly where to find it cheaper. I fully intended to quickly try them on and buy my shoes from the online retailer, but things didn't exactly work out that way.
I was fortunate to have a short wait for a shoe person; if you're used to walking into a store, buying a running shoe because it's cute, cool or brand new, this is not that kind of a store. Being properly fit for a shoe, especially one you'll be using for high impact activities, is immensely important; the wrong shoes can be the source of a lot of needless pain and discomfort.
When my number was called, I explained that I had been fit at FF before, but since my original fitting I started wearing prescription orthotics, which was why my podiatrist was recommending a neutral shoe. The guy I worked with was great; we discussed my running routine and he brought me the shoes my podiatrist recommended along with a few other neutral shoes to compare them against. He examined the fit, noting that he disagreed with the size I said I needed (he was right - I had told him a 1/2 size too small), and had me run in each pair on the treadmill to see what fit best. I ended up liking the pair recommended by my doctor, but was glad I tested out other options.
When I was done he asked if I had interest in having a a female associate fit me for a sports bra. I was glad I decided to get fit; the associate that helped me was very knowledgeable. I told her what sports bra features I liked and didn't; she measured me, noted which bras ran big and small, which ones were best for high impact activities, the ones best suited for my body type, and what to look for in terms of correct fit. This was definitely the most informed sports bra purchase I've made.
I may have been able to get both of my purchases a bit cheaper elsewhere, but I felt the time, attention and expertise I received was the best value for my money.
TIP: The store has a points program and gives a discount to CARA members.
TIP: If you're happy with you current shoes, they keep the data stored in their computer so you don't have to wait in line when it's time for a new pair of shoes. If you're unhappy with the fit of your shoes, they have a 30 day return policy (provided the shoes are still in good condition). read more