This is a great place to get any and all running gear! I had a half marathon I was prepping for and needed new shoes and socks. I got my foot scan done and they helped me find the perfect shoes! I was skeptical but it actually worked so well. The team was super friendly! read more

Small shoe selection and rude asf. Made me feel awkward when I wanted to take a peak at their selection to get a new pair of everyday walking shoes for work. There were 2 other people in the store but they were so focused on me, not making small talk or anything just looking at me...I said thank you & good night only to be ignored. I couldn't get out of there fast enough. Maybe they're nicer to runners but man their employee could at least pretend she doesn't hate her job and everyone around. read more

I think Customer service could improve. I just had a really awkward experience there. A sales person approached me to say hello while I was looking at merchandise, and then made me feel awkward when I told her what I was looking for. As she was already with a customer? It was super awkward. read more

I stumbled across Potomac River Running with my friends and was immediately greeted by Christian. He offered to help all of us get our feet scanned to see what types of shoes would potentially benefit us in our running journey. Once Christian scanned my feet, he sent the results to me right away and offered me a few recommendations, such as the Hoka Clifton 9s, as well as a variety of Ons. Christian was not only super friendly, but he is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the products in the store. He also helped explain certain terminology that I was uncertain about. I ended up walking out with some new shoes that I am excited to test out. Would highly recommend Potomac River Running, and I would like to give a huge shoutout to Christian for being such a great employee to work with! Someone please give him extra kudos, and a raise! read more

This is your go-to store for running & walking shoes and socks. The service is superb; the staff will size you up and determine your foot width to ensure the best fit. The selection is good and the prices are no higher than what you'd pay anywhere else. There is no reason not to give this locally owned shop a try! The personalized experience that you get here is uncommon these days and it's so greatly appreciated. Thanks for being so awesome! read more

Here is some real time feedback after a visit to this location for the first time in years; this is the place to go if you want a quick high tech analysis of your foot and expert insight from store staff who are likely running fanatics/experts. Had a great experience AND a great conversation with Wilson today, and I'll be back in the future. read more

Had a really great experience here! Elizabeth was so helpful, knowledgeable, and just fun to talk to. She helped me try on maybe 8 pairs of shoes and seemed to know so much about each one. Honestly wasn't expecting to pull the trigger on a pair of shoes that day, but I liked the ones Elizabeth recommended so much I went for it. They are so comfy! The gait analysis was very cool too! Very informative to know the anatomy of your feet and gait. It's done by stepping on 2 devices on the floor with your shoes off, so no need to wear any particular clothing/shoes to the store. You can make an appointment online, but I did walk-in on a Saturday afternoon and was able to get it done with no wait. read more

What a rollercoaster! TIP: If you want/need sneaker assistance, ask for help! They will size your feet, ask you to jog on their treadmill, and analyze your running form. I was helped by both Haley and Phil. They were both incredibly nice, knowledgable, and patient. I could tell that, from time to time, Phil would seem a little tired or overwhelmed. I understand. Honestly, having a ton of people try on a ton of shoes must be exhausting. I don't think anyone can keep a smile on his or her face 24/7, even if it is required by his or her job. So I hope other people don't dock off stars because the staff is a little flustered, stressed, or snippy. You can tell they're trying their best. The Potomac River Running business model is definitely hard on the staff. So why did I use the term "rollercoaster" above? So, I was a little sad by the above customer service. But I also really do understand why the staff is tired. So mostly I was saddened when the shoe I wanted had to be ordered from another store. But it was okay, so I thought, because they would be able to ship it out immediately and get them to me within two/three days. The next day, there was no movement. The next next day, there was also no movement, so I called. I was reassured they would be sent out that day. But the next next next day, there was still no movement, so I called again. I was reassured they would be sent out that day. And they were not only sent out that day, but sent via 1-day priority mail WITH a cute Potomac River Running sticker! What a ride! Overall, Potomac River Running deserves 5 stars. They also have all the newest models of the most popular running shoe brands (Asics, Hoka, On, Brooks, Mizuno, Nike, Adidas, Saucony)! read more

Potomac River Running - Free sticker! - Shoe Stores Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

This store have a great selection of the top running shoes, apparel and equipment brands. Like many others, I ran on the treadmill to analyze my stride and determine which type of shoe was best for me. I recorded a video in a neutral shoe and a stability shoe. With my pronation, it was recommended that I purchase a stability shoe. I appreciate the service and knowledge of this store. I have wasted money and put strain on my body because I didn't have the proper shoes. I will be returning back to this store for more shoes in the future. I purchased the Hoka Arahi 6 in Shortbread/Fiesta. They are cute and comfortable. read more

Causally walking around Ballston Quarter and stumbled into this place. I was immediately greeted by Christian. And I gotta tell you, this was A1 service. I got my feet analyzed via their in house device. And Christian had recommendations ready. While trying on shoes, you can even watch your feet on the treadmill with their camera setup. I went with some On Clouds and I do not have any regrets. Definitely go to Christian if you need any assistance. read more

I'm slowly getting into running and decided it was time to get a proper pair of running shoes. Maybe I'm wrong but it feels like there's a bit of a running culture that feels a bit intimidating. I was worried I might have to fight for attention among other more serious runners. I was totally wrong. I was helped right away by Beth who got some basic info from me and suggested the quick gait analysis. After that, she brought out the two shoes I'd asked about and two additional suggestions. Despite it being unusually busy, I had all the time and attention I needed to test the shoes out on the treadmill. Beth was awesome and was very knowledgable about each of the shoes. I ended up leaving with one of the pairs she suggested. I've been running on them a week now and they've been great. Also they're dog friendly too! read more

I love Potomac River Running. Every time I visit, staff is friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, and they always have great tips. Plus, everything they've recommended for me has been perfect. I love the treadmill with the camera. Prices are standard, and there's sometimes a sales rack. Also, when I've called, they are happy to check on items. This location is bigger and brighter than the old one, which is nice. Potomac River Running offers a loyalty program, but I'd be loyal to them even if it wasn't offered. read more

Excellent experience for a beginner at long distance running. Yes the shoes might look a little funky but you will make the finish line with feet that don't scream get me out of these uncomfortable shoes. PRR has professionals on staff that analyze your running to determine a shoe that best for you. I arrived in the middle of the day so for the most part I was the only customer in the store so I had the undivided attention of my sales associate. Upon other customers entering, I still had the undivided attention of my sales associate...she didn't miss a beat....awesome experience and I found a comfortable pair of running shoes within budget. I highly recommend this location and this company. read more

Super impressed! Wilson (sales person) really knows his stuff! Had great recommendations on improving my running techniques. I bought the most comfortable running shoes from him! AND reasonably priced!! read more

Maya at the Reston location did such a great job at finding the right fit for my husband and I today! Glad to finally have the best fit for the both of us so we can enjoy the Reston trails together. Thank you Potomac Running and thank you Maya! read more

Potomac River Running - Shoe Stores Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Outstanding customer service! What a great store. They have just about everything you could ever what related to heath and fitness. It's one of the best selection of running shoes I've come across in years. Great people working here too that are super friendly and knowledgeable about the products. I picked up the exact pair of Nikes that I've been searching for, and they were on sale. Love this place. It's my new go-to for buying running sneakers. read more

I like to support local and small businesses and have been looking to buy a pair of new running shoes. Went to the Burke location and they didn't have my size. Friendly service there ! They located my size at the Ballston mall location. Great service from everyone at the Ballston store too! I tried the ASICS shoe and the staff advised I go 1/2 size up for that model. I'm glad I did as it fits better. Unfortunately they didn't have my size and offered have it shipped. I called at 10am the next day and got a call at 4pm that it was at the store! Chris was super helpful! Thanks! read more

I was overdue for new running shoes and Wilson at PR helped me find the perfect pair! I always feel like I'm in good hands when I'm getting help from a fellow long distance runner and Wilson knew exactly what I needed. He did a an analysis of my shoe size as well as my arch to see what kind of shoe was right for me. Wilson was super kind throughout my shopping experience as I was trying on different options and he was super patient and responsive to my feedback on each shoe. I highly recommend a shoe fitting with Wilson. Such stellar service!! read more

I'm new to outdoor running and was in the market for a good pair of running shoes after having no luck blindly ordering online. I went to PRR in Ballston and Phil was great! He helped me find the perfect pair of shoes and accompanying inserts and was friendly and knowledgeable as i tried on pair after pair. The colorway I wanted was not sold in store, and Phil helped me get them ordered for delivery to my house. I will definitely return to PRR in the future! read more

I preface my review with the fact that I have been a loyal PRR customer for years and their concept, selection of shoes & running gear is unparalleled. This review is specific to the Ballston store. On multiple visits the staff seem to be aloof and bordering on arrogant and hostile. Not sure if others have experienced this vibe. Running in general is a community activity (at least to me and from my experience, to the other PRR stores). Ballston just seems to attract a poor staff. Hope someone from the corporate office reads this and can affect some changes. read more

I came here in search of a new pair of running shoes because after running a half marathon my knees and feet were having a lot of pain. Phil helped me out and listened to all of my issues and what I felt my current shoes were lacking. He helped analyze my gait on the treadmill and gave me lots of great tips for how to correct my form which was super helpful! The whole experience was so enjoyable and Phil was super patient and let me try on and test as many shoes as possible. I found the perfect pair of shoes for me, and he was nice enough to give me 15% off for being a nurse which I thought was awesome. I would totally recommend this place if you need some guidance from expert runners! read more

Good running store. Not overbearing and generally pretty helpful. Was looking to buy shoes for an upcoming distance race. They were able to diagnose my foot pressure when standing and how much arch support I had. The sales assistant gave me a sample shoe and conducted a quick study of my foot strikes on a treadmill. From there she brought out a pretty wide variety of shoes, all of which I generally liked. Price-wise,the shoes were pretty on par for what I think you should pay for a decent pair of heavy-use running shoes. If you want, they can take your information down to save your account/shoe history. Overall, I definitely think it's what you would want in a running store. Perhaps the only negative thing was the parking. It took me forever to find a spot. read more

Amazing customer service! Went here based on reading previous reviews and Phil did not disappoint! A quick jaunt in the treadmill to check my gait and try on various recommendations. Phil also have me some fantastic and unsolicited tips for marathon training. I rarely write yelp reviews but felt compelled to do so today because the service was just that good. read more

I needed a good pair of running shoes, but didn't want to be thrown sales pitches and rushed which is what I've experienced with other athletic stores. Potomac River Running was exactly what I was looking for. Right when I immediately entered, an employee asked if I needed any help finding a type of shoe. I explained my issues with current shoes and what I was looking for and we jumped into action. First I stepped on a scale that displayed on a screen where most of the pressure was placed on my feet when casually standing. Then I was told to walk on a treadmill and the employee monitored my walking patterns and was able to tell what type of arch my feet had. I was then brought out 6 pair of shoes to try on. With each pair, I ran on the treadmill to see how they felt. After trying all 6, we had a winner. The employee wasn't pushy at all and gave me her honest opinion on different types of shoes (letting me know which ones she thought were too expensive given their arch support and she was able to recommend comparable shoes which were cheaper). She also didn't try selling me a bunch of extras like shoe inserts and listened carefully to my past running experiences and my lessons learned with certain types of shoes. Besides shoes, the store has shirts, jackets, and other athletic wear. I definitely recommend Potomac River Running if you're serious about running or want to start getting serious. read more

I'm old and starting to wither away so those running shoes I bought on sale in a back corner of the kids section aren't a good idea anymore. A little research and I ended up here. Great location with a good selection of shoes, though, I thought there were would be a wider selection (1 star off for that). Employees were personable and friendly and not pushy at all. They aren't crazed runners who want everyone to run or die, etc. etc. I didn't do an analysis since I know my specific issues but it's definitely handy and the hours are better than Georgetown Running Company. Everyone come in and start running...nothing like $100+ shoes to motivate you because you don't want the money to go to waste D: read more

I was in desperate need of good running shoes, shin splint compression and knee support! The gal who helped me gave solid advice based on analyzing my gate and my needs. She was pleasant, laid back and non pushy which I greatly appreciated. She provided honest suggestions and I am thrilled with my purchases. I got snazzy new shoes, knee braces, shin compressions, and a fabulous head band. Seriously, the head band is the BEST! I have tried numerous brands and been disappointed-they either slide back/off my head, are ugly, or don't last. This type has just the right amount of give and is super cute. I totally recommend this place for all your running/walking needs! read more

Had a great experience here. The sales lady was super friendly and knowledgable. Brought our dog too. Tried on three different shoes and ran around outside. After 20 minutes and $120 (average price for running shoes) walked out with a great pair that I'm excited to run in! read more

Potomac River Running - Shoe Stores Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Saw this store on my way home one day and decided to check them out since I was finally in the market for new running shoes, after running my current ones to the ground so badly they caused serious foot/calf/knee injury. I took my old shoes with me and walked in to a really organized, clean and empty store - just my luck! I was warmly greeted by Amanda, who I like to think of as Amazing Amanda, because she was just that - AMAZING! She helped me understand the type of shoes I needed and why, she answered all my questions and was personable to boot. We talked about our upcoming races and really inspired me to consider the Disney marathon in the future. I was so impressed with my visit I ended up donating my old running shoes to the store and walked out with a pair of cute and perfect running shoes. I will definitely be coming back in 6 months, when it's time for a replacement. read more

Sales associate really took her time with me to find walking & running shoes. She convinced me to buy Brooks' an entire size too big and they feel huge, even after two month. Still trying to get used to it but it was her recommendation so I continue to wear them. read more

I was way overdue for a new pair of sneakers and have never really known what I should look for. I'm not much of a runner but I love walks and sometimes walk too much, making my feet hurt. I wanted to go to a store where someone had that knowledge on which shoes would be best (and also shop local!). I found PRR from a quick search and loved the fact that they do a gait analysis. Phil was great at explaining what the analysis meant and talking through the pros and cons of each shoe. They didn't have the shoes I ended up liking best in my size but he was able to find a pair really quickly at another store and had it directly shipped to me (with a friendly note!). I've been testing out the shoes on longer walks since then and it's been going well! I definitely recommend coming here, especially if you're not sure to start with a good pair of shoes. read more

I'm just getting back into running, needed to upgrade my shoes. I stopped in to the store about a month ago when I was in town for business. Figured I would just ask a few questions and pick something and get out of there. Well that turned into coaching, evaluation, gait analysis, trials of various combinations of choices. Really amazing. ... many thanks to the manager Phillip who took personal care of me and I'm very happy with my choice. Glad to report I am using the new shoes and my running is stepping up read more

PRR was recommended by a co worker. Really appreciated the time the associate spent with me to find the right shoes. The right shoes are so important to me because I have knee problems. She videotaped me running on the treadmill to analyze how I ran. And she recommended a pair of running shoes that help stabilized my feet. Highly recommend. read more

I used to venture out for the Cleveland Park location's Potomac River Running Tuesday night run group. I'm pretty sad the store moved because I really loved everything about it. Felt like my runner family got a divorce. I recently made the trek out to Arlington to shop for new shoes and gear and I'm happy to report that the store employees are as helpful and cheerful as the Cleveland Park folks were, I'm a happy customer! I had a great time picking out my new running shoes. read more

They were very thorough with the gait analysis - actually had me go on a treadmill and showed me a video so I could really see what my feet looked like. Good selection and generous return policy! Great service. read more

Great service here, very friendly and knowledgeable staff who help you find the right shoe for you. You can run on the treadmill to try out shoes and they can record and analyze your stride to see what type of shoe is right for you. Highly recommend. read more

There's only a few places that have excellent customer service, and this is one of them. I wouldn't buy shoes from anywhere other than this Potomac River Running Store. read more

This place is great. They will observe you running on a treadmill, and make recommendations on your running style. The staff were professional, knowledgable, and genuinely helpful. I didn't feel pressured or like I was being sold to. Overall a great experience, and I'll definitely be back! read more

PRR Arlington moved from its Wilson Blvd location to the corner of Fairfax & Glebe. Its still very metro accessible and now even closer to the trails, which is great for those of us who typically run to and from the store. It's also a big plus for the many fun runs and training groups that originate there. The Thursday fun runs I participate in have already taken advantage of new short routes as well as long runs that are more accessible from here than Wilson Blvd. If you insist on driving in this town, they do validate parking in the garage below, or there is ample street parking if you plan to spend more than an hour shopping. The location is an upgrade for what was already a great local running store. Now that the store isn't crammed in next to the bike shop, they've got space for an expanded apparel selection. There's also a lot more room for the events that they host with brand reps and sports doctors and trainers. Just a few weeks ago they had a great fun run hosted by Adidas, complete with test shoes, and post run drinks and dessert! The store caters to runners of every level. They have all the essential brands of running shoes and products, as well as more technical gear such as racing flats for serious runners. The staff is super knowledgeable, but not overbearing. Usually I end up chatting to them about training and upcoming races as they are all passionate about running too! I definitely recommend checking out the new location and joining a run! read more

I'm so glad I went! I needed new running shoes but have basically no experience as a runner. Becky was amazingly helpful and patient. She watched me run on the treadmill, gave me great suggestions, and picked out some awesome shoes for me to try. She's a great listener and I will definitely be back next time. read more

I've been a runner since i was in Cross Country in High School. I never really looked at the physics involved in running or the importance of the shoe. Even when I was active duty i just bought the shoe based on weight! It wasn't until 2005 when i started running the Army Ten Miler and the Marine Corps 1/2 and full Marathons that I stared looking into getting two pairs of shoes. My wife and I both went to them and analyzed our gait and running pattern. It did make a huge difference! Their staff is pretty good too when making recommendations. Overall they get a big thumbs up! read more