The stream of 5* reviews is entirely justified for this place - These guys are the bomb. They're locally owned by a UT grad and staffed by a brilliant range of runners who seriously know their stuff. They only stock shoes that they consider worthy / good quality - don't push a hard sell and have a great range of accessories and socks (including my favourite feetures) It's a relatively uninspiring strip mall location but what it lacks in glamour it more than makes up for in quality in every sense of the word. It's taken me two years to find them but they'll definitely have my repeat running business while I'm living in Austin. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to beginners and seasoned runners alike. read more

I'm not athletic. AT ALL. I'm overweight and one of the main reasons I don't walk is because my feet hurt when I do. I always thought it was because of my weight-which is true. But after buying shoes from here I was in foot heaven. NEVER IN MY LIFETIME I felt this great wearing tennis shoes. Clouds on my feet when you combine them with the socks they sell at the store-kinda pricey but its a treat everytime I take a walk. I got 2 blue pairs of socks that make my feet feel special whenever I put them on. And I'm cheap. I go to Wal-Mart and stock up on socks on Black Friday. Sometimes, you gotta splurge and this is the store to do it. Now I walk everywhere with my bright color tennis shoes. Sh*t, I even took them to church one time with my jeans because I felt so comfy wearing them. I don't care if they don't match my outfit. My feet are not in pain anymore when I walk. The staff is soooo knowledgeable and helpfull. They saw how I walked, explained my pronation problem and how to correct it with good support. I was given 3 pairs of shoes and in less than 30 minutes I found the perfect ones. Then I took my husband for some shoes, found his shoes in no time and out the door on a Sunday morning destination Zilker Park. And today I took my son. My poor baby inherited my pronation and lack of arch support. A young man got his right size and 2 pairs later, my baby was running all over the store. Sigh of relief to see his pronation problem was not as evident as before. I trust them. And I don't trust anyone. I READ YELP REVIEWS for EVERYTHING. But when I come to this store, I let them see me walk, measure my feet, intake all the info they give me, they pick out several shoes for me, and I'm always happy with their selection. To me, at this point, the colors of the shoes don't matter BECAUSE ALL OF THEIR SHOES ARE SOOO COOL. You won't regret buying at this store. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSESS!!! read more

Ready to Run - a new running store in central Austin. With all the city traffic, downtown Austin is on "lock down" during certain times of the day. It is great to have this location in town with such easy access. They will be having a grand opening November 2-3, but are already open for business. The store is very comfortable for anyone to shop there; no elitist runner vibe. It also has everything a runner or walker would need and is well stocked with running shoes from Mizuno, Brooks, Asics and Pearl Izumi. They also have a lot of accessories like arch supports, socks, nutrition and therapy devices.and some nice apparel. After talking with the owners, Ryan and Scott they seem to want to focus on high level shoe fitting first and foremost as well as community involvement with varied levels of training groups. I wish them all the best for future success! read more

See all

It was the fellow Yelpers who helped me find this place. About 3 weeks ago I went in for a fitting. The man running the store was alone and a little overwhelmed. Some woman with children running amok was making him anxious. He did get to me after a time, and he listened to my needs for sneakers as well as evaluate my foot and gait. The first sneakers I tried on were nearly perfect, but I mentioned to him about a slight sliding at the ankle. He showed me how to remedy that with a "runner's knot". How cool?! It worked. :) He assured me that if I didn't care for the shoes I could take them back. Heck no... I love them! Getting the help was priceless and finding a new brand of sneaker was suprising (I've always been a Nike girl). We will see how they hold up - so far, so good. read more

Summary: Took two visits to get it right- but we got it right! And it was a really easy process. Details: I started doing OrangeTheory in January after years of not working out since I last played sports in college. I obviously had to update my gear- and originally went to NordstromRack for running shoes. They worked initially as I was only working out 2 times a week, but once I upped my workouts to 3 times a week I felt like I needed to really invest in some good, supportive running shoes. Also part of my issue was the shoes I had were too soft for the workout portion of OrangeTheory. I asked around and researched and learned there were stores that specifically fitted one for shoes and figured that was the best route to go. Ready to Run was one of the closest options and seemed to fit my needs. I went in- explained my current issues and what I was looking for and was happy the woman was familiar with OrangeTheory and what kind of workout it requires. She watched me run, and she pulled 3 pairs of shoes- the first very sturdy- which perfectly fit what I requested since I complained about my shoes being too soft. The other two were- very, very strange shoes, so the first seemed like a perfect fit and I was checked out within minutes of entering the store. Plus I grabbed a pair of sunnies which was on my shopping list- and those have been great! I never quite felt right in the shoes when running on the treadmill. I thought maybe I just needed to break them in- but after the 6th class my foot was in serious pain which required rest and ice... not what one hopes with new shoes! I was nervous about going back to the store because everything she provided was based off my request, and I didn't know if the could accommodate me. I went anyways because the shoes weren't cheap, and I figured I had to try. I went with a friend who was also getting shoes, and waited until the guy working with her was finished. He heard me out and was quick to get started trying some other options- which was nice since I was worried I'd get shrugged off since I had already put the shoes to use. I also explained I felt like I didn't run how I normally run when I first visited because of the space- and he brought me outside to test out the shoes and watched. This gave me more space to really run how I run- and I ended up with a great pair of comfortable shoes. I'm not in love with the colors/ design, but it's all that was available and clearly it's not the looks that matter- it's being able to workout without being in pain! Many thanks to a business that helped me get the right shoe- even though it took more than one visit. read more

I visited Ready to Run after reading positive reviews on Yelp regarding their customer service and expertise. I was not disappointed at all. Ryan was very helpful in getting me into the right pair of shoes. First he listened to my running goals and injury history, then picked out a few pairs to try on. He carefully watched me walking and running in each pair, until we chose one. I'm looking forward to trying them out! Overall very good experience; not pushy and very helpful. read more

Ready to Run - Can't miss these... - Sports Wear Near Me - Austin, Texas

Ryan and crew really know what they're doing. The shop is a decent size and selection is pretty good with new products coming in all the time. Despite the fact that I think I know my feet and running habits pretty well - Ryan was very helpful in helping me get into some Mizuno's that met all the (picky) requirements I asked for. I got to try on several other options as well and was glad I did - you can't do that online! When it comes to buying running shoes I don't think there is a substitute for a brick and mortar store and Ready to Run is my go-to local running shop from here on out. In a pinch he also more recently help me pick out some swag for my girlfriend's birthday :-) I will also mention that everyone is friendly and attentive. You never get the feeling that they are being pushy or elitist. read more

COME HERE IF YOU WANT TO SUPPORT THE AUSTIN RUNNING COMMUNITY!!! This store is amazing. I came in on my break from work and was helped out by the sweetest man, Charles. He assessed my footfall, my foot alignment, and helped my figure out my true size (turns out I've been buying a whole size too small!!) As a vegan runner, it was important to me to find cruelty free shoes to wear and rep. Charles found me the perfect pair of Brooks running shoes and helped me understand the shape and cushion style that my feet needed. He also recommended a great pair of compression socks that feel like they're hugging my foot in all the right places. The price was INCREDIBLY affordable for the quality of material and the high end customer service I experienced. The store has ample parking, kind salespeople, and a very relaxed, fitness inspired atmosphere. I highly recommend local ATX runners stop by this store and experience their top notch work. You won't be sorry! read more

Ready to Run - Brooks Ghost 12 cushion-neutral shoes and 2 pairs of Valera compression ankle socks - Sports Wear Near Me - Austin, Texas

The sales person I interacted with today was not very pleasant. He seemed to have a hard time absorbing my feedback and didn't pay much attention to the problems that brought me in for new shoes in the first place. He seemed put out when I would turn down a shoe that wasn't working for me. I mentioned on multiple shoes that the heel was slipping but that I was concerned it could just be the poor quality socks I was wearing. After the 4th shoe that slipped on my heel (and the 4th mention of my poorly fitting socks being the issue), I finally straight up asked him if I could buy a pair of athletic socks to try on the shoes with. The whole time he had a sour demeanor. I walked into the store happy and excited about buying some new shoes, but I walked out of the store feeling disappointed and vaguely depressed. read more

Ready to Run is THE best running store in town! The staff here is amazing. They are super friendly and very knowledgable. My experience shopping at RTR has always been super positive. The store is managed and staffed by experienced runners! They have all your running needs covered - clothing, shoes, nutrition, accessories, and knowledge! I was recently referred to RTR via my chiro/PT office because I've been having foot issue's. My doctor told me to make an appointment with Bill Stone who could examine my foot and analyze my gait to help me find a solution to my problem. OMG, this guy is legit - he is THE foot whisperer! Seriously, Bill is amazing! I spent almost an hour with him while he did a very detailed analysis of my feet and gait. He helped me find a shoe and insert that are 100% working for me. I loved that in one hour he identified the root of my issue AND recommended a solution! The issue's I was having before have gone away and I am on track to come back stronger than ever! If you are a runner, you need to come to Ready to Run today. read more

I am very impressed with Ready to Run. They are a small local business on far west. Their selection and knowledge of running equipment is phenomenal. Their team helped me and my fiancé find our perfect shoes based on their analysis of our run and wear patterns. I left feeling very confident that I had the right shoes for me. Definitely a local business worth supporting! They will be receiving my continued business. read more

The staff are really helpful in getting the right shoe you want. Walked in and they gave off a cool non pressure vibe, compared to other stores where they hound you for a sale. They offer a sweet military discount too 15%! I'll be back for my next pair of Brooks running shoes when I need to replace the ones I bought here. Ghost 8 Brooks! read more

I couldn't think of a better person than Ryan to help me select the right shoes. As a former collegiate runner with an extensive background in perfecting your run, he can spot any quirk in your movement to match you with the perfect shoes. He also makes a point of understanding your fitness goals to not only pair you with a shoe that fits well, but one that will also do what you need it to do. Ryan was able to hook me up with a cute pair of extremely comfortable shoes, but ultimately, he impressed me most with his level of knowledge - he truly is an expert in what he does. read more

I went to this store looking for a good shoe that could provide arch support and good traction for trail running and overall workout shoe. The associate was attentive and had me try on three different shoes that he felt would best fit my foot type. I tried on every pair and he had me walk and jog a little around the store. After trying them all out I decided on the Mizuno Waverider 16s, I've owned these shoes for a good year now and they are still durable and comfortable. Although the store is small it is plenty of room for the job with a good variety of high quality shoes. Great customer service and I will be visiting again the next time I need shoes! read more

Ready to Run - Mizuno Waverider 16s - Sports Wear Near Me - Austin, Texas

The Good: :: they are a local business!!! :: great selection from good brands like New Balance, Brooks, and Asics :: service is so friendly and nice and helpful :: lots of accessories! water bottles (portable and not), socks, shirts, shorts, and more :: lots of parking :: they helped me find the best pair of shoes for my style and distance of runs i do. i had BAD runner's toe (my poor pinky toe got beat up and turned black and blue, WTF) and with this better pair of shoes, i no longer suffer from this crap. who knew all the hardship your poor toes go under when you pound at them for 5 miles straight at 6.5 mph?! fml. :: they take time to make sure you get fitted into the right shoe. they not just measure your feet but they also analyze your gait as you walk and jog to see how your feet move and land :: they don't try to just sell you the most expensive shoe. they try to make sure you buy the RIGHT shoe. my shoe i walked out the door for only $125 including taxes. awesome! :: their website is awesome. very easy to use, very clean, very easy to find information :: they list all kinds of running events (e.g, 5K's) on their calendar on their website The Bad: :: none The Ugly: :: none Would I go back? I'm heading back here to get my new pair as soon as I wear out this set! Once you've found gold, you don't go back. This place is IN. read more

I went to ready to run today to get a new pair of running shoes. I am not a "runner" but am trying to get back into the sport after doing cycling for several years. Because of the long lay-off I wasn't set on any particular brand or type of shoe, but did know a bit about my biomechanics and foot type. Bill helped me out and he was wonderful. He basically started from scratch with me, watching me run in my current (very old) pair of shoes and going from there. He watched me run in numerous pairs and made comments and suggestions along the way. He was very knowledgeable and professional, and was in no rush to get me to just buy a pair. He also recommended a very thin arch support, but did not push to buy, but had me try the shoes with and without and let me decide if I wanted it. I really liked this store and would recommend for someone looking for a new pair of running shoes. I also prefer this location to trying to navigate downtown. I went to rogue a couple years back, and they had me try on pairs and just told me to "see how I felt" and did not even watch me run in them, which is one of the main points of going to a running store to buy shoes! I ended up having problems with those shoes. Hoping for good results with the new mizunos. Go give this place a try! read more

Let's begin with saying I am NOT an athlete. Nor will I ever be. I am okay with that now. That being said, walking into an athletic store is not my cup of tea. I've learned to expect uber pushy sales people, be greeted with stares from beautiful people who basically live in the store, and feel overwhelmed with having to make choices in an area of non-expertise. Just like walking into a gym. Panic attack mode. I know its just my insecurity, but these thoughts were running through my mind and causing me to take deep breaths before walking into Ready to Run. Oh my gosh! I felt like I was walking into a small business that didn't give a hoot about my level of athleticism but just wanted to provide me with the tools I needed for my own goals. I was greeted by Bernard who listened to what I needed, which was a good pair of running shoes that would reduce my knee and ankle pain. I did walk/jog for him so he could identify my problem areas, uncomfortable for me, however he immediately saw I was pronating and knew exactly what I needed and within 10 minutes I purchased my pair of shoes. Bernard wasn't a pushy salesman, he thanked me for coming to the store, and made me feel 10x more comfortable than I've ever felt at a Dick's or any other sporting goods store! Thank you! read more

I have been running for 41 years, from high school and college track and cross country and even coached high school for 3 years. This is a great store, knowledgeable staff, great inventory, good prices. It reminds me of what RunTex was in the early days, or Phidippides way back in the day, Soler Sports in San Antonio, etc. Staffed by runners who know running shoes. I enjoy going there, always a successful trip. If you go to some big box retailer, Academy, or somewhere else, you run a high chance of ending up with shoes that will not perform as well, or worse yet, may cause an injury. Come here and you will be glad you did! read more

I went to this store yesterday to pick up a pair of new running shoes. I already knew what I wanted when I walked in, so I didn't do the complimentary gait analysis. I was promptly greeted by two friendly service reps, who helped me get my shoes. They offered me a $10 discount in exchange for my old shoes, which was nice. They had a big selection of shoes on their wall, and a good selection of socks. I ended up buying some body glide and a runner's water bottle holder/case while I was there. It was nice to see they had a good selection of accessories. It was also cool that they took an interest in the upcoming event I was doing. I could have bought the same shoes on Amazon, but I love supporting local businesses, especially when they go out of their way to make sure you have a good experience. I'll be back to buy a replacement pair in a few months. read more

The yelp reviews didn't let me down. I'm a newbie at running and my ancient ill-fitting Nike's just weren't cutting it with the interval training I was doing. I went in 40 minutes before the store closed on a Monday (it was Pi Day, so there were a bunch of runners waiting to do the Pi/Pie Day run). The lady that helped me was extremely nice and helpful, watched me run and paired me up with some shoes that felt AMAZING. I found out that the way my feet hit the ground meant I supinate. Putting on shoes that were made for my stride just suddenly felt right. Like magic. I won't ever go anywhere else for running shoes ever. I never felt out-of-place or like an newbie idiot, only welcomed. The runners waiting for the Pi Day run were also super nice and down-to-earth too, so I'm suspecting a really great community as well. read more

Nice and knowledgeable staff. I was measured for my shoes and they did an evaluation on my walking and jogging to see what running shoes I need to not hurt my body while running. I'm very happy with my purchase and will be back for any other supplies I need in the future. read more

The people who worked there are runners therefore want to help you fit into a good pair of running shoes. It is important to get a good pair of running shoes. Ready to Run has a good supply of running nutrition and accessories. They also host a free run every Monday night which is a good chance to bond with other runners. They don't have trail running shoes and for trail running shoes go to Austin Trail Running Company. This place is basically a road runner store. read more

I stopped by one afternoon after a recommendation by a few friends to purchase new running shoes here in preparation for my first half-marathon. Located off Far West Blvd., the location was easy to find with accessible parking. There weren't too many people there when I stopped by so I was met by one of the sales associates who helped me purchase a pair of shoes. They tested my gait, pronation, shoe size, and running tendencies. Overall, I felt that they were very helpful, patient, and thoughtful about finding the right shoe for me. I would definitely recommend visiting this story for any one interested in finding the right running shoes for them. read more

I love this store! I have a complicated foot: it is extremely wide and flat, and I also over-pronate. I came here for the first time in 2017, and my foot was measured AND the guy watched me run. I was brought several options to try on based on my needs, and the guy helped me select the right shoe. I came back again a few weeks ago, and was helped right away. Ended up leaving with a pair of Brooks, which have a little less stability than my old New Balance, but are lighter on my foot. Thank you, Ready to Run! read more

Good place to get running shoes if you don't like feet fleet. Overall a good selection and good prices. Will come back to business in the future. read more

My wife and I visited a few weeks ago during a grand opening event they were having. These guys were SUPER knowledgeable. The owner is a former disciple of run text and a veteran to running shoes. While he helped my wife, another member of the team who seemed equally knowledgeable helped me get into a pair of shoes that feel great after a few weeks and bit better than any other shoe I purchased the past. They explained to me in terms I could understand my running habits and the shape of my foot and how to select shoes that will work best for me. I really appreciate the time they spent and will continue to shop here. read more

This place is awesome! I walked in, told the salesperson what I was looking for, and walked out in short order with the perfect pair of shoes at a reasonable price. He measured me, watches my gait, and selected two different shoes that were absolutely perfect for me. No condescension or intimidation here-- just nice folks who know their stuff and want to get you in the right shoe. I will be back, and I'll tell all my friends! read more

TOP notch service, from knowledgeable staff. Definitely my go-to place for good walking/running gear.

Bought shoes here on the advice of my podiatrist, and was very pleased with the staff and their expertise. Selections are limited, but they found a comfortable shoe for me, and checked out my gait and the fit in several pairs. I'm an impatient shopper, and they were very accommodating. Nice folks. Prices ok. read more

This place is awesome. I just moved back to Austin and was shocked to realize that RunTex is no longer. I stumbled upon Ready to Run by chance and am so glad I did. The staff are wonderful - extremely knowledgeable, professional and friendly. The selection of shoes is solid and they have great gear too. I have a feeling I'll be a long-time customer here. I love supporting local business especially when they are this impressive. Go check it out, it will be worth your time. read more

Two days ago it was time for me to purchase a new pair of running shoes. I first contacted Ready to Run on-line, and received a prompt e-mail response to my questions. I also found the staff inside the store very helpful, and I got the shoes that I wanted at an excellent price. I will come back again. read more

There are many choices in Austin but life-long runners tend to be picky about what they're looking for and loyal when they find it. This is my home running store read more

Awesome and knowledgeable staff. The team here is very friendly and ensures you get the right shoe at the right fit.

I am so glad I found this place! The people here know their stuff. I had a nagging ankle issue, and they knew exactly the problem! Got me into another shoe, explained how the orthotic I was wearing was contributing to the problem, and they were right! I'm back to running again with no pain. They are runners themselves that are so nice and take their time with you. Many of them use to work at the old RunTex, so have been around a long time. Prices are reasonable. Was fed up with the newer running stores that had attitude and high prices. This place is THE place to go!! read more

Walked in and I immediately made several observations: #1. The salesman didn't acknowledge me (i.e., hello, welcome to our store). Several seconds later, someone else walked in and the salesman acknowledged her. I've lived in the neighborhood for several years. I am a veteran, Hispanic male, and frequent runner. I walked in wearing my usual running shorts and shoes. The person who walked in behind me was white and female and was wearing a running outfit. I'm not sure I can call-out "racial profiling" in this situation without a doubt, but it begs the question after not being acknowledged the same way the other person was acknowledged. I appreciate the woman that was acknowledged immediately noticing and redirecting the salesman over to me. What is the lesson, "Ready to Run"? It's simple. Just remember to say hello to EVERYONE who walks in the store. #2. I immediately noticed that prices were not displayed. When I asked the salesman why prices are not displayed in the store, he said because the store doesn't want the focus on their shoes to be about "fashion." He then mentioned that all of their shoes range upwards from $120. I go to Karavel shoes on Burnet Rd and spend $150-$200 on running shoes. They have been around for years and display their prices. The staff at Karavel are very knowledgeable, friendly and down to earth. First experience is everything. I will not go back to "Ready to Run." It appears I am not their type of clientele. read more

I used to be a very serious runner, but have not participated for many years. I explained to them that I wasn't up to date on the current shoe technology, probably hadn't bought running shoes in 20 years, and have experienced some physical changes (toe problems) since my glory years. The sales staffer (I believe her name was Jen) was extremely knowledgeable, gave me great one-on-one help and analysis of my running gait, and recommended several good options. I found a pair of shoes that seem great, and she made me feel very comfortable through the whole process. I will definitely return. read more

I found this store through Yelp and was excited to get fitted for a new pair of running shoes. A brief personal running history - A couple years ago, I ran my first half marathon and I'm currently training for my second. When I arrived, I was greeted by the staff and Charles immediately offered to help me. He listened to my preferences, spent ample and appropriate time observing my walking and jogging foot form (with and without shoes), and immediately found three pairs of shoes for me to try. The first was a perfect fit and he encouraged me to jog in them, in and around he store. He was kind, patient, and really seemed to care! I knew the shoes would be a bit pricey, but, as my dad says, "good running shoes are a lot cheaper than foot surgery." I felt satisfaction knowing I was purchasing from a local business. And I love that all the employees are runners themselves. This store will be my go-to for any future purchases! read more

I had a wonderful experience here! The staff was helpful and very knowledgeable. I have not run in years and they took the time to try on several pairs of shoes until I got the right fit. The shoes are reasonably priced. The staff helped with my in store purchase and offered suggestions about the local running community. Great shop if you are looking for a local running store. read more

Nice people. Very professional and helpful. Shopping locally feels good. And they are philanthropic rock stars in my book. They collect older running shoes which are then distributed to the homeless. Yay! Ready to Run!! read more

Great place. Completely lived up to its 5-star Yelp reviews. It easily fills the big shoes left when Run-Tex closed. One thing I would say is that I read at least one Yelp review that characterized the prices as being expensive and I disagree. Prices are pretty much the same as I have seen other places. But the service is far better than in any big-box store. Also, I got my shoes on sale today so it was a big win for me! read more