I came here for my first fitting after two years of running and one bad choice of shoes on my part. I got some great,friendly attention from Don (?), who measured my foot and suggested that I size up, then had me jog back and forth. He chose the same model that had been chosen for me at a race Shoe Lab, which was reassuring to me that I was choosing the right kind. Then Richard rang up my purchases and clued me in to the awesome running community they have, with Reward points and races. I'm trying to provide salient details of how happy I was with my experience without dragging on, so I'll leave it at that, with two pertinent details to finish: they provide exchange or credit for shoes up to 14 days after purchase The price on my shoes matched most online places I checked after the fact. ^^ two key details for people like me, who like to shop online! read more

Terrible customer service!! The employees had zero awareness of who was next in line to help. In hindsight, I should've been aggressive like at a swap meet for attention. Selection: well can't tell you. Waited 25 mins and no one made eye contact with me. Don't worry, I'm happy to spend my money somewhere else!! read more

So I've had a mix of experiences. I had previously bought sneakers multiple times and socks. I was told socks were on sale if you buy multiples but did not ring up with the sale. Dumb me I didn't notice until we got home and I had already opened some. I chalked it up to my fault. It's hard to find in person stores to try on shoes. I am in the 40+ crowd and I value good alignment and the right fit for my family. I appreciate they carry a wide variety of widths as my family all wear wides. This brings me to our last experience. My partner doesn't always love trying on shoes but I find it's the best way to get proper fitting shoes for him. We tried on a few as the new version of his current pair no longer fit so well. 2 team members went to the back at the same time. I could hear one of them very clearly say jeez thanks for taking them they're a handful laughing. I mean if you're going to talk about clients at least do it quietly. Just because I can't see you doesn't mean I can't hear you. The person getting the different shoes wasn't even asking any follow up questions about how does this feel or any follow up to help facilitate finding the right fit. I bought the damn shoes because my husband needed them and I shouldn't have. Nordstrom is far and I hate the parking but at least they value their customers. Pacers doesn't carry as many wides in stock at the location closest to us. I've never felt this way before. We won't be back. read more

Staff knowledge is questionable. It was the time of the year to replace my and my wife's running shoes. I heard good things about this store and the reviews looked excellent, so I decided to give it a chance. During the visit, my main concern was my wife's running form. When we would run together outdoors, I can hear her feet coming down hard on the pavement. This would explain a lot of the injuries sustained and probably required a shoe with more cushion. I brought this up with the sales staff and the person helping me completely dismissed my concern based on a short run on the treadmill. He stated he wasn't sure how I came to that conclusion. I came to that conclusion based on a multi mile run, not a less than minute jog on a treadmill. My next poor experience was when we got to my shoe selection. I stated my feet were wide and the running shoes I had previously were wide. The sales associate brought out a normal width shoe, which was too tight. I feel like he wasn't even listening to anything coming out of my mouth. After trying on multiple shoes, I settled with a pair he recommended. I went for a few runs and these shoes hurt unlike my last pair. I thought they just needed some breaking in but 2 months in and they still feel off. I'm also getting injuries I've never had with my last 2 pair of running shoes. I know this chain has a good reputation, but this particular visit and store was not a good experience and I probably won't be going back again. read more

Once my regular gym closed in April 2020 due to COVID, I began to see the beginnings of the dreaded "Pandemic 15" weight gain. I was stress eating while also spending too much time lounging on the couch binge watching programs on NETFLIX; sitting in front of my computer for hours on end attending ZOOM and MS TEAMS meetings didn't help either. So I pivoted like everyone else, and went back to basics...which in this case meant starting to walk around my neighborhood and nearby parks. At first, it was just for 30-45 minutes at a time until by October 2020, I was walking 7-8 miles/day three days a week. All this mileage of course, meant my old ratty Brooks running shoes were worse for the wear and started causing knee and foot pain. Thankfully, I stopped into Potomac River Running Store last Fall, where I was assisted by folks who are not only knowledgeable, but also take time to listen to assess the best shoes and fit for their customers. I've been a big fan of the Brooks Beasts series of shoes, and have been wearing them for over 15 years. I find Brooks shoes to have the best combination of arch support and comfort for my feet which make putting on the miles doable. I recall at that time that Bronson (I think he's the manager) was very helpful and spent about an hour with me performing an arch analysis on a thermal heat pad device and examining my stride. I stopped by in mid-June 2021 with a female relative since she was not happy with the service and selection when shopping for running shoes at another store, and she was blown away by the experience she received from Olivia. I observed from a distance, but I agreed with my relative's assessment that it is not uncommon for women in particular, to have their requirements not heard or fully understood at big box retailers. Olivia was very patient and brought out about 7-8 pairs of shoes to try and answered all questions with the insights of an actual runner and hiker. Potomac River Running also has a treadmill for customers to simulate walking and running; Nice touch that this place also has a video system set-up to perform a stride analysis, if so desired. There are also accessories such as hydration packs, fitness watches, socks, and shoe inserts. I'm not going lie, the shoes here are not cheap with most starting in the $125 range and going up from there. But having worn cheaper athletic shoes ($45-$80 range), I can also attest that these lower quality shoes will not only degrade faster but can also lead to injuries. I've come to realize that old adage, "you get what you pay for," is more true than most people want to admit. So I'll pay a bit extra for high quality shoes since I view it not as an extravagance but an investment in my health. read more

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Raymond was friendly shoe salesperson. He was willing to help us when asked. We have learned helpful information about shoes from him. We really appreciated his help! read more

I've always had foot problems and as a teacher with a neuroma flare up i decided to stop by a pick up new sneakers to. Richard really took the time and clearly has the wealth of knowledge to help you find the best fit and shoe type that matches your needs. He suggested going a size up due to my orthotics which i had never thought of but i can already feel the difference. I highly recommend their store for their customer service expertise and will be returning the next time i need a new pair of shoes. read more

I love this place! Prices are comparable to the big box! The difference: personalized service by staff that know what they are selling! I came here for proper walking shoes. I have the staff member by list of foot issues and he quickly came out with an assortment of shoes! The first one was amazing pair of Saucony. I can't believe I had been wearing my clunky hiking shoes for months before realizing that there was another world of comfort walking shoes. After trying in several pair of shoes, I settled on my Saucony. There was a Yelp deal which I purchased and saved $15. The staff is friendly, knowledgable and quick to assess. I definitely recommend to anyone seeking comfort for your feet. read more

Potomac River Running Store - Shoe Stores Near Me - Springfield, Virginia

I randomly stopped by one day to buy a pair of socks. Two of the guys working there were helping a customer each, so I browsed around until they were free. I had a question about The different versions they had. The store isn't that big, and after about ten minutes, I tried to make eye contact with the employees. They glanced at me a few times as I literally stood by the counter waiting.... Then after about 5 not minutes, I left. No hello/goodbye. Only 2 customers there... Then today, my gf returns a pair of shoes and it's a simple transferring... She said the female was very kind... But the guy working there seemed rude, no smile, no words. He didn't even respond after she said "have a nice day." Just gave a blank stare and looked away. This is exactly why people shop online after trying to support local businesses. I do however go to road runner sports (falls church) for most of my running needs. read more

I've been buying shoes here for 10+ years; I buy two pair at a time to alternate them daily on treadmill. Though the store's changed hands, service is as stellar as always. I call to have them order what I need, they call, I come in, they help switch orthotics to new shoes and ensure good fit. I've never had less than great service so it's hard to understand the few one-start ratings. The place is great and now as part of SMALL local chain should e around forever. read more

I absolutely hate buying new shoes, and as a long distance runner, I log about 20-24 miles a week, so I end up running with the shoes I like till the soles pretty much fall off. Needed new shoes and I read some Metro R&W reviews, so off I go. John ended up helping me through 5-6 pair of shoes until I found 2 pair that worked, and we had a great conversation along the way. Knowledgable and friendly staff, and you can donate your old shoes there. They also carry Balega socks, pretty much the best socks on the planet. It is increasingly difficult these days to find anyone knowledgeable IRT to shoes and specifically long distance shoes. This store is a gem, I hope they never change! read more

Potomac River Running Store - Shoe Stores Near Me - Springfield, Virginia

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Just because I blew out my knees in my last marathon doesn't mean that I just sit on the couch and eat bon bons. Well, maybe sometimes I do, but that is besides the point. I did the one of those two day charity walks and since it had been awhile since I ran or walked any substantial distance..I had to train. So, I would pick a trail or a park and go for a jog or "power walk" every other day for two months before the walk. Problem was, I wore out my Asics in the process. So, I needed new kicks, stat. Off I went to Metro Run & Walk. This is a "practical" running store that offers wide selection of training shoes, running gear, and racing spikes. The friendly salesperson hooked me up with a new pair of Asics and gave me tips on how to quickly break them in without getting a blister. read more

I love this store and am so glad I took a chance and went in. I recently started running and wanted new shoes, saw on their website that they do fittings, and went in. John was incredibly helpful - watched me walk and run in various shoes until we found the right one. I also learned about the classes they have for good form running and training sessions for those working up to races. I attended the good form class with Bruce a few weeks later and learned a lot about how to improve my form. He also helped me pick out appropriate cold weather accessories and they're awesome! As it turned out, the shoes I bought there started giving me some major calf pain every time I ran and I ended up taking them back. John helped me again and we found a better-fitting pair and he took the used ones back, no questions asked. The service from everyone I've talked with is phenomenal and the staff is very knowledgeable. Highly recommended! read more

Everyone here knows what they are doing. They also had a great return policy, with no questions asked. Worth the money!! read more

Metro Run & Walk is a great place for walkers and runners of all levels. Everyone on the staff is super friendly, very knowledgeable and has a ton of running experience. They are very active in the running community, hosting races and offering training programs throughout the year. I recently just completed their Fall Marathon training program in preparation for the Marine Corps Marathon. With the program, I ended up beating my previous marathon time by almost an hour. The coaches worked us hard, but somehow made the whole experience enjoyable. There are a lot of great people in the training group, and they welcome all new trainees with open arms. It's not as competitive/intimidating as some of the other training groups in the area. I am planning to continue with the training group. The store has a great selection of shoes, apparel, food, and accessories. I can never leave the store without buying something! Thankfully they have a customer rewards program where you get 5% off when you first sign up, and then for every $100 you spend, you get a $10 Reward Credit. read more

I stopped by today to find some shoes with good arch support. Upon arrival, Richard greeted me and asked how he could help. I explained that I worked at a job standing on my feet all day. Richard measured my feet and got straight to work. He brought out about 5 pairs of shoes for me to try on and even showed me a different and more effective way to tie my shoes. Richard was very patient and knowledgeable. Thanks for the great service! read more

It has been years since my last purchase here... they found my profile from my last fitting which helped to jump start the search for new shoes. Super friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff. Took me about an hour and about 6-7 shoes but finally found the right fit. Fair pricing for quality items. Went with Asics , bought a new pair of socks and got a free shirt as a welcome back gift. The 20% discount on the shoes was really helpful. Will be back to have my youngest daughter properly fit for her training for Spring Track & Field. read more

This is a great store for marathoners, joggers and walkers! I was a varsity athlete my whole life (not in running) but decided the next best step would be running. Who knew I had been wearing the wrong shoes!?! They are honest and super knowledgeable. When I was fitted for shoes...it made a world of difference. My friend went in and they told her that her shoes were good for her and that she didn't need to buy any just yet! My knees, ankles, back and feet are super grateful! read more

Bruce sat me and help fit me for my race coming up. He was so knowledgeable and friendly. If you are looking to run your first race or 109th race - this place has trained professional who want to help you. read more

I've been suffering from shin splints because nobody carries my size. So I just have to buy whats in stores and hope for the best. I've been running in little boy shoes, and it was time to make it in and get fitted for proper shoes. I went hobbling in on Saturday, a nice staff member welcomed me, then watched me walk (hobble along) and fitted me for shoes. He said he would be back. In my head I'm thinking NO WAY are they going to have my small shoe size! HA boy was I wrong, he came out with TWO options. WHAT?? I get to PICK! That never happens.Turns out the shoes were too big, not to worry though, he came back with the shoes in a smaller size. I was so happy. He helped explain the shoes, and made recommendations. I left happy, and my first run was with minimal pain. I will for sure be going back for my running shoe needs! So when they say they have a wide selection of shoes, I would have to agree with them. The one staff member who helped me was very friendly and nice, and helped make a happy customer. I would totally recommend this store. read more

Unfortunately, this store is now owned by Potomac River Running. What made MRW so great was it's people and they have all left since the take-over. In their place you will find high school and college kids who, despite their energy, don't really know how to fit someone with a running shoe. It's like they've read the sales materials from the manufacturer and just go with that. MRW used to have the best shoe guy in town (he was called D.C.). I'd love to know where he went so I could have him continue to fit me for shoes. My experience with PRR is that on two occasions I went in for new running shoes. Ran on their treadmill for the "gait analysis" and tried on 30 pairs/visit for a total of 60 pairs! I bought two different pairs and ended up returning both as they made my shin splints worse. D.C. was recommended to me by another runner. He looked at my stance, watched me run down the sidewalk, gave me 2 pairs to try on, I bought one and kept buying that shoe for 3 years! I am so sad he's gone and I wish I knew where! He was the best! read more

Susan was fantastic! She approached me with a genuine smile and kept MY needs in mind until I gladly walked out with the best pair of running shoes I have ever bought. My foot size was measured, she evaluated my walk in socks and also my jog with shoes on. She gladly brought out over four pairs of shoes for me to try on so I could pick the right shoe for me! Not once was I pressured into buying the "latest and greatest" shoe model. I will gladly return here in the future for my running needs. read more

This is a great store for runners of all levels. Staff are so welcoming and knowledgeable. I would recommend (and I do very often) this place to anyone. read more

Richard has helped me several times get the right shoes and inserts. Great little shop. A real pleasure to visit. No more back pain!

I was going to be running a marathon a few years back and was referred to this store. MAN I've never had better customer service and such expertise anywhere else. The show were the same price as you'd pay at a Footlocker or similar shoes store. They are professionals. read more

They offer a Good Form Running class. They record you running short distances. It's well worth the time to learn good habits or correct bad ones. They are also very careful to make sure they match the right shoe to your style of running. read more

Talk about THE best. Experienced runners and ironman distance athletes giving me straight talk advice for my shoe needs. I came in with a long story,a bag of previously worn shoes and came out with heaven on earth on my feet. I can't wait to be a runner again! read more

Potomac River Running Store - Shoe Stores Near Me - Springfield, Virginia

They keep a nice stock of Enell bras. Yass for amply endowed women. Running shoes galore and a knowledgeable staff read more

Been more than a year since I was here but my daughter is now running cross country in her new HS. She has pronated ankles and we saw a podiatrist in Springfield, VA. He recommended shoes from Metro RUN & Walk, which we bought. Salesperson was really great, took a lot of time and had her run in several different shoes. Now we discovered she has shin splints so I'm going back to find out about calf compression sleeves. I know I can buy on Amazon, but MR&W have been so great, I would buy from them first. Great customer service and Helen (owner) is always responsive on Yelp! read more

I am going to mirror a lot of the reviews already listed, but what a great store! I traveled quite a distance to have my gait checked. I have a relatively new pair of running shoes that were hurting my feet. Bruce took time and looked over my shoes, feet, and my running style. He explained that my shoes style of choice had recently become more narrow so to avoid the pain i was feeling, I should move my laces up and not tie them as tight. Already my foot feels better. I am most impressed by him not trying to sell me another pair of shoes but figuring out how to make my current, new pair work for me. I will be back and will tell everyone about this gem. read more

Had excellent service today with Alexandra. She was extremely personable, professional and knowledgeable. She measured me and then helped me pick out some New Balance running shoes, Superfeet inserts and a pair of Pure Sandals in Patriot Blue. This spotless store provides exceptional service and they have everything you could possibly need! Can't wait to return! read more

My wife purchased her first pair of real running shoes here this week and based on our experience, we'll be back for sure! Recently my wife and I took up running (I'm returning, she's beginning) and she had experienced some knee pain. Supposing the shoes were the culprit, we decided to check out Metro Run & Walk and see if we could get her squared away. We took the entire family on a weekday night and were super surprised to find that the store has set up a corner for kids, complete with toys, and our kids enjoyed themselves while we shopped. They were in sight the entire time, so that's a plus. The entire experience was a joy as the staff was very experienced and helpful. They were able to answer all our questions, help narrow down the cause of my wife's knee pain, and help her find the perfect first pair of real running shoes. The prices were reasonable and the staff's knowledge of the products and the sport, coupled with their courteous attitude and attention to detail have earned Metro Run & Walk a pair of repeat customers. All in all, I'd recommend this store to anyone in the Springfield/Annandale/Greater Northern VA area. read more

As an ultra runner, I go through a LOT of shoes. I love Metro Run & Walk because they carry Altras and are always so much fun to chat with about shoes and races. Super friendly folks and they are always so patient with me (woo hoo double bunions) as I try to find the best fit. They're also huge supporters of local races and local running groups. I try to buy local as much as I can and Metro Run & Walk makes it easy to do so. Plus, they have a kids area to distract the tiny humans from creating havoc. read more

Yep, Love this place. I walked in looking for the infamous 'Oprah sportsbra' (Enell). I was greeted and said I wanted to browse;they weren't overbearing with the assistance nor hovered. I found the sportsbra wall and found the Enell brand I came searching for. I tried on bra after bra and the owners didn't mind; they wanted me to find something I liked. I inquired about a specific size they didn't have in stock and said they'd special ordered for me with no obligation to purchase. The owners also recommended another style that a friend wore with great results. I seriously couldn't have asked for a better shopping experience. I'll definately return for future athletic gear :) read more

So, I think I'm spoiled. I went into this store a while ago looking for a foam roller for my IT band and they looked at my like I had lobsters growing out of my ears. On another occasion I was looking for a new pair of running shoes - and they just asked me what I wanted and which size. I indicated that I wanted to be fitted and they gave me that same look. There are a bunch of teenagers that work in this store and bless their hearts for getting a job and trying to help people, but I would rather spend my time and money at Pacers. read more

I'm really big on customer service... and this place by far is as good as it gets! I was greeted by a staff member named John, who asked me few question about my running history, did a quick but thorough consultation (which I've never had when buying a pair of running shoes) and then brought out the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn... lol... I also told him that I have osgood schlatters in my knees and he suggested a knee brace. I ran last night and I noticed a tremendous difference! They also have really nice running clothes as well. If you're looking for a good pair of running shoes and great customer service this is the place to go! read more

Visited this store today. Mark patiently and effectively guided my through the process with an effective evaluation of my feet type. He was able to pinpoint a pair of shoes that were seemingly tailored for my feet. That is one of the best retail experiences I have ever had. Mark is extremely knowledgeable and trustworthy. The prices were very reasonable. I have no desire to go to any other store for running products again. read more

Great store for runners. When I trained for my first marathon I bought my shoes here. They will watch you run and will suggest the appropriate shoes for how run (on your toes, slamming your heels down, etc). Believe me, a good pair of shoes is worth its weight in gold when it comes to distance running. read more

After years of picking my running shoes by looking for a $60-80 shoe, trying it out, and figuring it was fine, I decided it was time to get truly fitted for new shoes this time. My body is getting creakier with the years, and those little injuries start adding up, so I needed to make sure it wasn't my equipment that was doing it to me. I was helped by Sandra, who had me roll up my jeans and take off my shoes so she could get a good look at my feet. She immediately saw I had high arches, which I had never been told before. My walking stride didn't show anything out of the ordinary, so it was time to take a look at my jogging stride. After putting a pair of Asics Cumulus on my feet, I ran down the sidewalk away from her, then back. She noticed a slight roll in my left foot, and we went back inside to try out some shoes. Since I am only going to be running 5-10k at the most, she recommended a shoe with just a little bit of support to keep me from rolling when I get tired. The first shoe ended up being the one I liked most, as it felt the most like an extension of my foot. I left with a new pair of Saucony Progrid Guides. I was very pleased that they were only $90, and that she hadn't gotten me into a pair of $200 shoes without me realizing. Great experience, and I could see while I was there that the other people in the store were getting the same personal attention that I was. read more

I had a lot of problems finding a shoe that fit correctly - typical size, etc. was not working. I finally had a friend recommend this shoe store. I had someone measure my foot and help me try on about ten different pairs of shoes. After purchasing one pair, I ran in them for a couple of days and started getting a lot of discomfort in my foot. I took them back and got a brand new pair of another shoe with no hassle whatsoever. The same thing happened to the second pair of shoes. I felt awful taking the second pair back, but the staff exchanged them for yet a third pair of shoes, again with no hassle. This third pair is perfect! Also, I checked the price of all three pairs of shoes with other stores and online and found the shoes to be essentially the same price everywhere else. Needless to say, I am now a customer for life. Highly recommend this place for quality running shoes. read more