So happy with my experience at Potomac River Running. Jen helped me find a great pair of shoes and told me that we weren't going to be settling on anything! Found out that I was wearing the wrong size shoe the whole time! Thank you Jen! Love my new shoes. read more

I've run on and off for a number of years. About 4 years ago I suffered a stress fracture in my foot and as soon as I got back to running I suffered another fracture, this time in two places in my foot and I gave up on running. After having a baby last year, I needed to get back in shape and started running again. I immediately started having pain in my foot again so I decided to come to PRR to get fitted for shoes. The salesperson who helped, I can't remember his name, was very helpful. He listened to my concerns, got me on the treadmill, and we looked at the video of my foot placement. He then offered me several shoes. I finally settled on the Saucony Hurricane ISO. I"ve been running with absolutely no pain ever since. I wish I had come here years ago! I will probably sign up for their running 101 in the fall to keep me on track. Thanks again PRR! read more

Felt like I was talked down to by a "professional" runner, Meghan. She made me feel like I've never could achieve her level of running. The rest of the employees where very nice but she was horrible. Not fun for someone who is intimated by running already. I will avoid this store if she is in their next time I need shoes. read more

Overpriced. They wanted $20 more for a pair of running shoes than other shops. Try RNJ Sports in Rockille. Worth the drive. They don't have the fancy tredmill with the camera that shows you how your feet look (like you know what you're looking for anyway...) but they will do a great diagnosis and get you a shoe that works! read more

When the pair of running shoes that I wear daily to walk to work started getting holes in the toe box, I thought it was probably time to spring for a new $100+ pair. I never intended to spend that much on running shoes (especially since I rarely actually *run* in them, although I wear them for everything else!). But I've found that going to a store like this usually doesn't end cheaply. For the price, though, you get an individualized shoe fitting complete with an assessment of your natural gait and tailoring to your individual needs. I liked this store overall. My brother, sister-in-law and I were all shopping for new shoes, and we were all helped promptly by friendly staff. They stick you on a treadmill where you can see your feet moving on the screen in front of you - so disorienting! The sales guy had me walk at an easy gait and then jog for a short time to assess my gait (neutral, pronate, supinate, etc). Unlike The Running Store in Gainesville, where they snap a few pictures for review, the system here just involves someone watching the screen and occasionally holding up a straight edge to your heel - but I'm assuming they do this a lot and are hopefully adept at assessing "on the run". He then brought out four pairs of shoes for me to try, and out of those four there was one that definitely felt better than the others. And thus my $140 (that included the $40 Superfeet insoles... I told you this wasn't cheap!) was gone in a flash. They do have a loyalty program that you can buy into for $20. You then receive 10% off your shoe purchase, I think... can't remember what other perks. It wasn't worth it for me just buying a couple pairs of shoes a year, but if you are buying for more than one person or you go through a lot of shoes, it would pay off. I liked that they collect used shoe donations for people in third-world countries - finally, someplace to send the mountain of "gently used" running shoes that have accumulated in my closet! My only complaint is that the sales person seemed a bit distracted, even though the store was empty. He even took a call on his personal cell while I was trying on shoes. Given that it was such a quiet day in the store, I would have appreciated his undivided attention for 5-10 minutes; after all, I was about to drop a good chunk of cash there. I get the feeling that when you admit you aren't a competitive runner, or at least someone who racks up a decent number of miles in a week, they automatically write you off. It would be nice to find a shoe store without the elitism. Overall, I get a better vibe from the Running Store, but Gainesville is so far away that I'll probably be using Potomac River Running the next time I need new shoes. read more

Today (5/8/19) in the evening I realized I had left my athletic shoes at home while on my way to teach a fitness class and needed to quickly stop and grab a pair as I was running late. Megan likely saw the panicked look on my face and asked if I needed help, I told her I just needed a quick pair of shoes that weren't too expensive in my size. She ran to the back, brought out multiple pairs and within five minutes I was checking out. Megan's customer service was PHENOMENAL tonight as I'm sure it always is! read more

I like this store. Not all the sales people are the same. I can always go in there a find what I need. If anything I LOVE the training programs and the coaches. They are the best for any level runner!!! read more

Great store! Best part, I wasn't judged for my seeking of a non-ugly running shoe. I went looking for a new pair of running shoes and had no real preference on brand or style (just not too ugly). I tired on a basic pair, ran on the treadmill in the store while they watched my feet on the TV screen in front of the treadmill. They brought out some shoes to try on, about three pairs, and one fit great. Then I ran on the treadmill again while they looked at my feet and noted that it was an improvement (personally, i saw no difference, but I also don't stare people's feet running all day and the shoes felt good so it didn't matter to me!) That was the fastest and easiest new shoe buying experience I've has in a long time! read more

I went to the Vienna location on Sunday and Mark fit me for a pair of sneakers....and I am telling you...they are game changing! I am not "a runner" and always thought you had to be a "real runner" to shop there or promise that you will run a marathon before leaving the store...but I could not have been more wrong! Mark listened to my habits and my goals (basically to get back in shape and drop some weight) and fit me for a pair of sneakers that I LOVE that work for ME and did not break the bank (in fact I spent more total on the 2 pair I bought before getting fit for the perfect pair!). I realized after a mile and a half in during my first time out I slowed down only to catch my breath...and NOT because my heels were bleeding or I wanted to hitchhike home because my feet/back/knees were killing me. Thank you Mark! (appreciate the tip on how to properly tie them to stay on my feet without cutting off circulation to my toes!) see you on the streets (until I need to come in for another pair!) Thanks! Maureen T. read more

This is the very best place to buy running or walking shoes. They know what they are doing and work with you to find the best pair of shoes for YOU. I used to buy my running shoes wherever (and honestly, spent less on shoes), but I can see now that I wasn't wearing the best shoes for what I needed. The first pair of shoes I bought at PRR were amazing. I hated taking them off they were so comfortable. I even saw my "rolly ankles" improve with these shoes. I bought a second pair of the exact same shoes. Love them. These are not shoes I would have ever picked out for myself. The PRR expert advice really paid off for me. I signed up for a few long distance/ multi-day events recently and knew I would need a second pair of shoes in different style from my 1st pair (always have back ups - you never know what a multi-day event will do to your feet, even with the best training). I got a pair from PRR, and the shoes fit great... at first. Then the shoes gave me some pain and some blisters, but I thought "Oh, just put some body glide on. Change the socks. Lock the laces. It'll get better." It never did, and when I took the shoes back to PRR they were great about working with me to find a solution. You do not find customer service like this many places!! You may spend a little more on your running shoes here, but honestly, that's what good shoes cost. Save your joints, buy good shoes. :) read more

This store is amazing. They have the latest gear in stock, the technology to properly fit you and, most importantly, they have experts working there that actually enjoy helping people. Matt was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and patient. He not only fit me perfectly but also provided some great coaching! Last, but not least, their prices are extremely competitive. I actually paid the same or less for my Asics than I would have on many websites. I'm usually too lazy to write reviews but Matt definitely earned it for Potomac River Running at the Town Center. -Mark read more

I just found a gift certificate in my to do pile that my 13 year old won at a race in May - over the summer we just did not get to it and now I discovered it has expired on August 31st - so 8 days ago. I called the store and asked them if they can make an exception since it has only been 8 days and my son would be very sad that I did not keep track of his reward - given the fact that he is only 13 and did wonderfully in that race. I totally understand that expiration dates are there for a reason but I thought this is a little harsh and wanted to share my experience. read more

5 stars for excellent customer service at the Reston, Virginia store! I am not a runner. I am starting from complete scratch to answer my sister's challenge regarding which one of us can complete the most 5K events this year. What have I gotten myself into? Thank goodness for the professionals at PRR! I loved seeing the video they shot of how I actually run, and then the numerous options of shoes that are ideally suited to my running style and personal comfort. I enjoyed my time there. Nobody acted like they needed to hurry off to the next customer, and all of my questions were answered thoroughly. I snagged some great shoes, some ideal socks, and now I feel well-equipped to kick butt on this new adventure! I'll be back to PRR for sure! read more

After I accidentally bought running shoes that were too small AND lost the box, PRR very kindly let me exchange the shoes anyway a week later. Great service and much appreciated. Thank you! They also helped me find some shoes that fit much better. read more

Very nice store, good location, Great Selection ! We were shopping for a Women's 11 narrow, usually store stock selection is thin. PRR had two pairs. We bought them both. We used a coupon we won at a PRR running event and took advantage of the loyalty program and got an additional $25 off the pair so the value was very good. read more

Was just in the store.. looked at shoes, orthotics, gear .. plenty of people around who may possibly work there, chatting amongst themselves, .. not a single one of them ever asked to help or even acknowledged my presence. And nobody else was looking at shoes or trying anything on, so it's not like they were preoccupied with other customers. Guess I'll just go find another running store that values customers. read more

I am sure this is a great store, but the staff that day was less than great. She did not make you feel welcome and seemed a little snobby, no smile there! I left and went to the Road Runner Store, Sterling and what a diff. experience altogether. Warm smiles greeted everyone and they just made you feel very welcome. read more

Have visited this store at least 15 times. Never once have they had my size in the shoe I want. This time I was looking for a new model of a shoe. They had it out but sales rep brought out the old model and said they didn't have the one on display. Told me they were the same, not from the reviews of the shoe. 1 star for poorly trained staff, never having my size (9). I try to shop local but they make it difficult. Try road runner sports for better selection and a well trained staff. This was the Reston store. read more

Great store! Locally owned and operated and they hire great staff who knows their stuff here. I've been through the purchasing and returning process here and they do very well. I would recommend shopping here for any of your running or sneaker needs. read more

I stopped in to look at some knee sleeves and was helped by Hannah. She was very nice and knowledgeable. I will definitely return to this location for all my running needs. Thanks Hannah! read more

Great experience at this store on MLK day. Even though the store was, suprisingly, busy, both sales staff helped me find a new pair of walking/running shoes. Felt comfortable working with both - both seemed to know the products. I was not looking for anything specific other than better shoes that fit better. Very satisfied with service. Would highly recommend. read more

After a long search on various web links from google , I came to know about this place on YELP. I had my fingers crossed all the way when I was driving to the store yesterday. The store is located in the Reston town center. As I entered the store I realized it is not just a shoe store. There was moment when I thought was it just another sport store. Well I was wrong. Josh. My savior. He welcomed me to the store with " how can I help you today". As I was talking to him, I noticed, behind all the packs of jerseys and shorts, a cardio, a camera, a television screen. This made me comfortable. This is what I wanted. After spending about $1000 on shoes that never suited me I felt I could spend a few useful dollars. Josh quickly picked up a pair of Nike flexible. He made me run for about 10 minutes on the cardio. He monitored my every move and explained me what I needed. After about an hours' struggle, and about 15 pairs, we narrowed down on one shoe. Do you guys need the brand name. Well hell no. Forget about brand, colors and all that . Feel the shoe. That's exactly what josh made me do. I sat down relaxed after about it 10 mile run on different shoes. Happy in my mind that I have spent quality time finding a right one. Well still early days. I will update soon after putting in a few miles with this one. A big thanks to josh. Walk in to the store here. Its not just Josh I guess every one here would be more than happy to help you. Thanks again Josh. I will go there again to meet him and give my thanks. read more

This place was amazing. Great experience in the store. I got to test out my running shoes before purchasing and they really and give great advice about running. read more

When you can get help it is a great experience. I have bought shoes at least 3 to 4 times from them. The last 2 times have been kind of hit and miss. The 3rd time I tried to get my shoes this was after a pregnancy and I hadn't been to the store in a while. It took them a long time to get to me so I just left. Then I got my shoes. LOVED them. LOVED the experience, etc. This last time I felt the need to write a reveiw because I was so upset. I went in and was not even greeted for 10 minutes. That being said there were 2 people working the store. 1 girl who was working her butt off serving 3 or 4 customers. The other guy was just helping 1 person. I mean seriously he couldn't even acknowledge the other people walking into the store. I am about to drop a lot of money for a pair of shoes and you can't even acknowledge me? No. I think that I will go to another store. read more

Supremely pleased everytime! The sales people are great and extremely knowledgable.

I love this store. I adore the staff, the running teams, the run series, I simply love Potomac Running!!! I run as many Pr races as possible because they are reasonable and they give nice shirts, pins and overall they are super organized. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. read more

I bought New Balance Baddeleys with the help from the knowledgable staff at Potomac Running. I am very happy with the shoes and I am building up my miles for a half-marathon next month. read more

WARNING: According to the store manager, any sales listed on website cannot be applied in store. I was told explicitly not to try to return or exchange shoes purchased online to the store. They will try to charge you full price if you are exchanging shoes for a different size I purchased shoes online from the Potomac River Running store on Black Friday when they were having a sale. I purchased two pairs with descriptions that fit my requirements, with the intention to keep whichever pair fit me best. Received the shoes in a timely manner via post. One pair of shoes was okay, and the other was great, but a little tight. I went to the store to return the ok pair of shoes and to exchange the other pair for a larger size. That is where the problems began. The store manager told me I would have to pay full price for the pair of shoes I was exchanging for a different size - which was ridiculous. According to her, the online store is not affiliated with the actual store and therefore the sales do not translate. So while she was willing to return the other pair of shoes at sale price (meaning I would not be given full price back), I could not exchange the pair I wanted in a different size at the discounted price (meaning I would have to pay full price). It made zero sense. After some arguing as to how businesses cannot run like that (imagine trying to exchange a shirt and being told you would have to pay more for it in the store vs online), she finally allowed me to exchange my shoes for the sale price. She did however make me pay double the tax. Her faulty logic was that the factory store is in California and this store is in Reston. Basically she was concerned about the store's bottom line. I was too frustrated at this point to keep arguing with her. The entire time the store manager had a bad attitude with me an acted as though I was at fault. She told me to never try to return shoes in the store again. This is completely against what is listed on the store's website as their return policy. Completely unacceptable - they've definitely lost me as a customer. read more

this store has the absolute worst customer service imagineable. i'm a very expierenced runner and i ordered shoes here because they didn't have them in stock. not only did i recieve a call about the shoes, when i went into the store they said they hadn't even ordered them yet. it didn't help that they weren't overly sorry about the inconvience either. finally i would like to say that i will not, under any circumstance be returning to the store. read more

I came here looking for new running shoes. I am a novice runner and wanted something better than my current (read cheap) shoes. I had no idea what to look for and was honestly a little afraid of being pressured or judged. The two associates that were working were very helpful. The associate who helped me was a little short- "what shoes do you need? You don't know? I'll get a neutral shoe (walks off)" but after the abrupt beginning, she turned out to be very helpful. All in all, she took the time to find me the right shoe for my gait. After 10 or 11 pairs of shoes, we finally decided that the first pair were the best choice for my slight over-pronation. She watched me run both on and off the treadmill and checked the fit of each shoe before sending me off to the races. She offered some tips and advised that I come back after getting miles built up to make sure that my pronation problem was being corrected appropriately. All in all a good trip, and I will be back, I even have my fiance interested in some new running shoes :) read more

i'm not even a huge runner and i still love this place. the only reason i'm not giving it 5 stars is that the selection isn't that big. but they have more than enough to pick form and the staff is really knowledgable about different needs. my sales guy took one look at my foot and brought out the perfect shoe. after trying on 7 others, i still didn't find a better shoe for my foot. and he was nice enough to not judge me for bailing out because i didn't like the color. read more