Went in to buy my first pair of real running shoes in October. The guy that helped me was really informative and friendly. I can't remember his name but he is a Mason student. He definitely knew what he was talking about. I received a coupon for $20 off for living in the Burke Conservancy and I was really pleased with the outcome. I bought a pair of Under Armor shoes and he threw in a complimentary pair of socks! They've earned my business. They also suggest Garmin over Fitbit. Going back for one soon. read more

Great customer service by Henry. Very patient, knowledgeable and encouraging. Thanks It's rare that you find someone who has as much honest knowledge in any field read more

What a great group of people here. You can buy shoes anywhere. This can be a little more expensive, but experience matters. Here you can have your gait assessed. That alone can improve your fun, when jogging or running full speed. Shoes are a lot like car tires. Only thing touching the ground. The employees here are very helpful. They are passionate about running and hiking. Everyone is friendly and experienced with these activities. You'll find a good selection too. Definitely check out this store. At the very least, you'll learn some new things! read more

PRR in Fairfax is a great store, amazing representatives and a great selection of shoes. My kids and I enjoy the many 1K and 5K races which they put on. Plus, military discount read more

I bought a pair of shoes at a different PR Running earlier today and had some questions about the transaction. I called this location and spoke with Mike who took the time to look up my account and the transaction and remedied the situation. He went way beyond my expectations and will have my business going forward. Thank you, Mike! read more

Excellent Service Tamika assisted me with finding a pair of walking shoes for me hard to fit feet. She greeted me (and others) as soon as I entered the store. Tamika was patient and provided helpful information on fit, exercises to strengthen my feet, etc. I was very pleased with my purchase and the customer service. read more

I was in need of new walking/running shoes. I was immediately greeted by Mike who was extremely knowledgeable. He analyzed my gait to make sure I wasn't pronating and scanned my feet to make sure I was in the right size, turns out I wasn't and that's why I was having toe pain. He was exceptionally patient, answered all my questions and even tried to track down the shoe he recommended in the color I wanted. I highly recommend this place! read more

I found the staff at this store very problematic. First of all, the manager did not want to honor the return policy: The policy on the website is: Items returned after 30 days will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for merchandise credit. It was just over 30 days and the sneakers just did not fit properly. It took a number of wearings for this to be evident, but one of the reasons I bought at this store was I felt they would work to achieve a good fit, to get me in the right shoe. Instead, I found the manager to be very unhelpful and not at all customer-service oriented. And the woman fitting me was condescending. I will not be back to this store. I'm hoping other branches are better staffed, but I will likely take my business to another company. read more

I was sent here by my podiatrist. Sales guy found what I wanted readily. I did want a different color. He found them at Reston store. They were shipped free to me in 4 days! Shoes, Hako, are wonderful!8 read more

I love local businesses, and I love that Potomac River Running (PRR) sponsors local running events (5k's) - BUT as a store and general shopping experience, I'm dissatisfied. Reason being, I've got very "special" feet. In other words, my lovely bunions prevent me from wearing any sort of normal width shoes. This has been known since I started wearing shoes (grew up wearing boys sneakers), but the "experts" at this store INSISTED that I didn't know what I was talking about. Being a newbie to the specifics of running shoes, I fell for it. I take issue with stores that push SELL SELL SELL when it comes to spending $80+ on a pair of shoes... particularly shoes you will be wearing for extreme distances (see: half and full marathons). I made the mistake of questioning my judgment here twice, and wasted nearly $200 on shoes and clothes. Why? The return policy is non-existent, so basically, I was pushed into a purchase that I wasn't terribly confident in in the first place, and when I was in blister hell, I was talked into buying another pair of shoes with no return policy, instead of lead into the direction of what was best for me (even if it meant referring me to somewhere else OR them special ordering a shoe, which they could have done). Blisters = ill fitting shoes. My giant bunions are a dead give away to anyone with common sense that I require a specific width, but instead of the associate chancing losing the sale, he again convinced me it was the cut of the shoe and not the width (they did not have widths in stock with the type of shoe I needed). I eventually ended up donating both pairs of running shoes, and finally ordered Brooks through Pacers (New Balances and Saucony were pushed on me at PRR - and as a whole those are great shoes for most people, but most people don't have freak feet like me) which as a brand also have a much more extensive width selection. New Balances generally have a decent width selection in general, but not at this location. Particularly, not the type of cut shoe that will help me run, say, 13.1 miles. I'm an over-pronator (mine is kind of extreme, but basically when I run I kick my legs out like a giddy little kid and run knock-kneed, which is fun for me, bad for my joints) as a result of my bunions, and that's about the only thing this store got right during this entire ordeal. The over-pronation was "discovered" (i already knew i had this problem) during a video taken of me running. This is a service PRR offers, as do many running stores. I recommend having this video recording of you running done at multiple stores to see what kind of feedback you get (and helps to see who at which stores have a clue what they are talking about). All of this though, I was able to set aside, but what got my goat was when I saw the same sales associate who sold me both pairs of shoes at a race about a week after my second unsuccessful pair. I said hi to him, asked him how he was doing, and he completely blew me off (he literally looked at me, turned around and walked away in his PRR shirt... even if he didn't recognize me after spending over an hour in the store both times, he could have at least been a friendly representative of the sponsor of the race and said hello back). I couldn't believe how rude he was then, and how pompous he was during the whole sale process became even more evident to me. Aside from this one particular person, I haven't had issues with other associates, and I generally enjoy PRR (as well as their "Virginia is for Runners" shirts), but I can't help but to get a bad taste in my mouth every time i drive by PRR. Pacers, I've found (in Fairfax, although there are other locations that are equally pleasant), is much more honest, and sponsors free weekly runs where the employees run with local folks and actually keep a relationship with their patrons. read more

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Kristin helped me at the store. I had an appointment and she was very nice and helpful with her tips and knowledge about running shoes. Although she had another customer before me, she took her time and showed me several shoes to try on and gave me plenty of time to decide. I will come back for my next pair! read more

I have shopped here for years, and they generally are unfriendly and insulting, but I have put up with it since they are a local store with reasonably good selection. However, this time they really surpassed themselves, with eye rolling between the workers and pure condescension for us not knowing everything about the products. I will be taking my business somewhere that doesn't feel obligated to insult me. Pacers is only a small amount of extra driving. And there's always Amazon. One addition: I have had wonderful experience with the training programs and would definitely recommend them! read more

OK, instead of compliments, I'll start off by saying I did not buy shoes here. If you want the full range of athletic shoes, you may need to go elsewhere. But if you are looking for running or walking shoes, this is a GREAT place to shop. Both of the gentlemen working here were patient and knowledgeable. When I say patient, I mean they brought out every model in the store to try and find a sneaker that fit my daughter AND that she liked. Over 3 dozen different styles, 5 or 6 brands, EVERY shoe. I like their high-tech measuring device that shoes pressure points. I like their communication skills regarding explaining what does and does not fit. Although we ended up buying elsewhere, it's because (it turns out) running shoes were not the right thing. It was not for lack of trying. The staff here are friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and patient. read more

Had a very positive experience here purchasing new athletic shoes to go with my new initiative towards working out and getting healthier. The store is small but the employees are knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. I got my foot measured, which was necessary since my feet seem to have grown since getting pregnant and having my daughter (le sigh). He then helped point out a few different options and I was able to try them on and walk around the store. I walked out with a new pair of lightweight New Balance Zante v4s. All's well (except for the part where now I have to go work out!) read more

Great customer service. They kept a record of my purchase history which made it easier for me to pick out something.

I have bought four pair of shoes here and believe this store to be the best of its kind in the DC area. The staff is patient, knowledgeable and cares that you get the right shoe--for you. They don't push the sale, they don't push the style, they simply get you the right footwear you body, road surface, and distance needed to keep you pain free and moving forward. If you prefer robots and the NSA watching you pick shoes, go to Zappos.com. If you want only style and grief, look for a pasty faced zombie in a referee jersey at the mall. If you want great shoes at a very competitive price, then start and end your search here. read more

I recently purchased a pair of New Balance Minimus road shoes, and the right shoe rubbed blisters on my heel. When I explained this to the clerks working, they blamed me and tried to sell me more products. I went here specifically to buy this shoe, because my normal store doesn't carry it. I'll stick with Road Runner Sports from now on. There are fewer locations in the area, but their VIP club costs less and offers actual benefits. read more

When I bought my first pair of Saucony's there the girl who helped me out was very nice, looked at me running up and down the little isle in the store and insisted that I buy the lower support shoes even though I have high arches. That was fine (although not ideal) and today I went back because I needed a new pair. I explained to the guy working there (well, sitting around is more like it, the store was completely empty) that I bought my last pair there, I would like a new pair and I'd like to try some shoes with better arch support. He brought out three different pairs of shoes, was polite and nice, but he just WOULD NOT EVALUATE MY GAIT. For the life of me I have no idea why he was so unwilling to help. Every time I would ask him to take a look at my gait he would say "well, you've been evaluated before..." Yes, but NOT IN THESE SAME SHOES! All I wanted to know is whether I pronate or supinate with the various shoes but his reply to my repeated requests was "well, if you've been evaluated before in these shoes that these are probably the right ones for you". I expected a professional evaluation of my gait while trying different shoes that will most likely affect my running in different ways. I did not get that. Finally, in frustration, I ended up buying the same shoes I had before even though I wanted something with more support (again, he didn't bring out anything that had higher arch support, no idea why) and I left. Sorry guys, this really sucked. read more

Knowledgeable staff, very friendly. I don't know much about running shoes, They checked my gate, talked me through what's what with shoes. Very helpful, I'll be back again. read more

I recently bought a new pair of running shoes from PRR and I have to say the customer service was excellent. I had a gait analysis done, and the gentleman who helped me seemed knowledgeable. He brought out a couple of pairs of running shoes which I tried. I even was allowed to go outside and jog around. I bought a pair of New Balances and felt good about my purchase. Later that afternoon, I found the shoes were a bit too big. The last thing you want to be thinking about when you're running is your shoes. And if they were too big in the afternoon after being on my feet all day - well, that wasn't a good sign. The next day I returned to the store in Burke and a different gentleman was working. He was also very nice and helpful. I explained what was going on with the shoes and he didn't give me any trouble at all. I asked to see a pair of the new Nike LunarGlide+ 3 Shields and he obliged me - he even explained that the shoe was neutral and would still be applicable to me. (This showed me he knew his shoes and was letting me know 'hey, I care.') Although, it was during the day and relatively early he had plenty of customers, but handled the rush really well. I love the new Nike's, and I had a great run today. All in all, I had a really good experience at this store. I will definitely be coming back. Not sure why others didn't have better luck here. Maybe the store is under new management? read more

I began using this Potomac River Running store several years ago on the recommendation of my physical therapist. They have never disappointed. Their service is impressive, and they'll go way beyond what you might expect them to do. I recently went into the store to buy a replacement for my worn out Saucony shoes. The manufacturer had stopped making that model, and no other style seemed to work. Jack went to the internet and found my old model, mislabeled by the vendor as a men's shoe. It arrived today and fits like a glove. Thanks Jack and thanks PRR. read more

I think the Potomac River Running Store in Burke has an excellent staff and always has the perfect running shoe for me in stock. As runners know, designs continually change in running shoes and finding the right shoe can be a challenge. The staff at Potomac Running are knowledgeable, courteous and above all patient. They are truly focused on satisfying the customer. I had an outstanding experience with Kelly, who is on the George Mason University track team. read more

I've bought insoles, shoes, and other accessories. I've never had the problems that other people write about but I didn't get get fitted here either. I'm usually in and out and it's nearby work. Never a problem with the guys there. read more

I don't typically leave reviews, but I had an outstanding experience at Potomac River Running store in Burke today. They were friendly, courteous, and extremely knowledgeable and I left with a new pair of shoes I feel confident will work well for my feet/gait in preparation for long distance race training. Also love that I have 30 days to bring them back if I have any trouble and the 10% military discount helped! read more

I run about 3 times a week and I've been working back up to a 10k. My old shoes were so worn out that I was starting to have knee pain. Went in to Potomac River Running last week to buy some new running shoes at the suggestion of a runner friend. It'd been a year since I last had someone watch me run and analyze my gait. Even though they looked pretty busy on Sunday morning, I was greeted immediately. A young woman watched me run outside and then again on a treadmill with a camera on my feet so we could both watch my feet. I'm so glad I went in for another gait analysis because I needed a different type of shoe then I had been wearing. I was able to jog around the store, outside and on the treadmill to find a shoe that I liked. After reading some of the previous reviews, I asked about their return policy. They have a 30 day return policy, so long as you don't get the shoes too dirty (so run on the road instead of on a trail). I returned from my first couple of runs blister free, and my knees feel great. read more

Such a great experience. I was super nervous being a little overweight i didn't think they take me seriously but the guy who helped me pick out new shoes was kind, helpful, and wonderful. I am very thankful for the help and understanding of this wonderful store. I will totally be coming back!!! read more

I was told to come here by my orthopeadist as I recently injured my foot. The clerks were very familiary with foot injuries, and were helpful in picking out exactly what my doctor prescribed, and did not try to sell me more items. I think this place is great and would recommend it to anyone! read more

I dropped in to pick up a water belt and leg roller--I had a very warm reception from the young man & woman working here. I decided to go ahead and try on a few pairs of running shoes since I was looking to replace my long distance shoes. Both were extremely patient, knowledgeable, and helpful. After describing what I was looking for the pair had four suggestions for me. I tried them all on, walked around the store, and ran on the treadmill in each. I finally settled on a pair of Saucony Virratas--great suggestion from the crew here, and I promptly went home and ran 13 pleasant miles in my new shoes. This is a local business that I will definitely return to and support. read more

I frankly believe this is the best running store I've been in in years! I've only had one experience with an "indifferent" sales associate and I reported it as a possible training issue to the store leadership and it was fixed immediately. They are a local family-owned store that has kept its local, family-owned character. Associates are friendly, knowledgeable, and have never pressured me into anything. They have a great selection appealing to a broad range of runners and do not hesitate to order what they do not have. They also are very generous giving back to the community and supporting local events...I give them a lot of credit for doing so...all businesses should follow their lead. read more

Loved the store and they were EXTREMELY helpful in getting a perfect pair of running shoes for me! My feet are not easy to "fit" and they had me walk and run on the treadmill several times until we found the perfect pair! Salesman was not pushing me to get the more expensive pair or anything - he was really helping me find a pair that worked for me. Active duty military also gets a discount! (sorry, not dependents) read more

This running store is as good as it gets. The fact that it is a running specific store means you will be getting specialized service with respect to running. Having run very competitively for the majority of my life at high levels I think it is safe to say that the staff here are very knowledgeable when it comes to running. The service here is exceptional. The staff are always willing to help and offer advice. I have even personally walked in and explained that I was not going to be purchasing a pair of cross country spikes but wanted to try some on and see how they felt. The staff were very generous and didn't have a problem with that. If you are looking for anything running (shoes, clothes, advice, etc.), this store is a great place to visit. read more

Potomac River Running never disappoints. If you are a veteran runner or new to the sport, the staff will help you find the shoe that best compliments your stride. I am always impressed with their professionalism and friendly assistance for customers. The selection of clothes and exercise apparel is excellent. Many employees are runners themselves and can provide tips on training and racing. Potomac River Running is invested in the success of high school cross country and track and field teams in the area. The store's reputation speaks for itself. read more

As a child and now into adulthood, I was not into running. I hated everything about it. Being winded, sweating, all of it. In turn, I swam from childhood and through college. After graduating I realized that unless I find an expensive gym membership, I lost my easy pool access. Guess what I ended up turning to. Going in blind to the running world, a friend recommended this store. It was great! I walked in and told them my story, distances I plan on running during a work out, and they knew exactly where to go from there. They took me to the back of the store and measured my feet on the computer screen. It showed pressure points, the size, and shape. From there, I was given a pair of "neutral" sneakers and was set on a treadmill with a camera and watched how my feet moved and struck the ground. Since I ended up not being a neutral runner the employee went into the back and took out three different pairs of shoes and had me try on and run in each of them, still while watching how my feet strike. The process was not rushed, the shoes were relatively cheap, ($100) and you definitely get what you pay for. The two employees that helped me were I believe Brian and Bryan, kept the atmosphere light and were easy to talk to. I would definitely recommend to anybody to come into this store, with or without a running history. The employees were knowledgeable and have me wanting to come back and buy another pair. read more

The cashier was very helpful in helping me select a Timex watch, showing me the features, and even setting it to the right time. Mon., 21 May, 3:30 pm read more

I'm initially greeted by a lukewarm reception without any eye contact. Not a great start. I then ask if they have any "sale" shoes. The employee says he doesn't know what I'm talking about. He says they have running shoes. We are able to clear up the confusion, but I'm still treated like I'm intruding on his hang time. Sorry for the inconvenience. I ended up leaving without even trying any thing on. In a time when I can have shoes delivered to my door the moment I shut my laptop you've got to be able to add something more than poor customer service. read more

I've been buying my running shoes exclusively at PRR for the last 5-7 years (maybe more). This was the first place I'd ever received a gait analysis and finally got the right shoes for me. My gait has even changed over the years and PRR has continued to help find what works best for me. The staff has been very helpful and friendly during all the visits that I've made over the years. I've recommended them to friends and family and their experience has been the same. read more

I got fitted for running shoes here and had an excellent experience. They looked at my gait, and brought me several different types and brands to try. They worked off what I said felt good and brought similar to try. They weren't pushy either, even when I left without purchasing. I actually wanted to look at other colors and did email and get them to order the one I liked that they didnt have in store. I didn't experience any of the problems I see on here. Could be a person to person problem depending on who helps you. I've always had a good experience here personally. read more

I used to be the girl who got excited to find a pair of running shoes on clearance at DSW or Amazon and would gleefully announce my savings whenever anyone complimented them. Alas, once I started adding on mileage, I quickly learned that A. I'm an idiot and B. that running in shoes not meant for you can quickly equal plantar fasciatis. So after getting the woeful news of bunions and sore arches, I popped into here to get fitted and after getting my gait analysis done (I pronate) I started the shoe search. I've noticed that paying retail for me means I'm a little over critical of every small thing that could go wrong after 10 miles. Thankfully, they were super helpful and I ended up finding true shoe love in the LAST place I would have looked (Nike Lunarglide 6). Just by switching shoes, my arches feel a million times better and I was able to knock out a 10 mile run with minimal bunion pain. Sure they may cost a bit more, but it really is so much cheaper in the long run (bad pun intended). read more

I dont know about other peoples experiences but if you go there as of 8/27/14 they are probably the best example of customer service. They have the most patient, knowledgeable employees that i have ever seen. Great Business, Great service will continue to support this business. read more

Being a former athlete and a pretend one now this is my go to shoe store. Each employee that I have ever encountered takes the proper time to make sure that my shoes are perfectly sized and the correct style for my preferred workout, which is running usually hilly dirt trails with rocks and tree roots. They have all different styles and brands to choose from and you will not leave disappointed and will be excited to get your next workout on. I highly recommend this store. read more