High-Pressure Sales Masquerading as Customer Service My husband and I recently visited this store hoping to find sneakers that would help alleviate ongoing foot pain and support us in exercising comfortably. Unfortunately, what we hoped would be a supportive, personalized experience turned into an overwhelming, high-pressure sales operation that left us feeling more like sales targets than valued customers. From the moment we walked in, we were bombarded--literally four people greeted us at once, creating confusion rather than a warm welcome. No one clearly explained the process. Eventually, we were directed to sit and wait, then each paired with different salespeople. While both associates initially listened to our needs, the evaluation process was vague and unexplained. We were asked to stand on a scanning device--no one told us why. Then we were shown results on a screen, again with minimal context. It all felt like a performance rather than a personalized fitting. Things got increasingly uncomfortable when we were ushered to yet another station for custom inserts--without asking if we wanted them. When I expressed hesitation, I was told not to worry, that "everyone does it" and "you don't have to buy them." Yet suddenly we're trying on shoes with those inserts, and the pressure to buy them escalated quickly. At one point, my original salesperson vanished without a word and was replaced by someone else--no explanation given. This second person ramped up the hard sell with fist bumps, winks, and patronizing comments when I hesitated over how a shoe looked. Suddenly, a new pair appeared that was "more my style," and I was told, "I got your back." It felt manipulative. The kicker? The two salespeople actually fist-bumped and celebrated the sale in front of us--before we even agreed to anything. When we were finally brought to the counter, the pricing was still not clearly explained. Yet another person began upselling us on their VIP membership without telling us how much anything cost. To make things even more impersonal, a corporate rep from California was chatting with the staff as they were helping us--like we weren't even there. By the end, I did walk out with a pair of shoes that feels good on my feet (and that I like the look of, finally). But the process was so dehumanizing that I felt emotionally steamrolled. My husband had to order his sneakers online and is already planning to return them and let the store know exactly how he feels. We didn't feel served--we felt sold to. The aggressive tactics, the rotating cast of salespeople, the lack of transparency about pricing, and the overall vibe made it clear: this store prioritizes high-dollar transactions over human connection. We won't be back. And I sincerely hope others read this before walking in. Your feet may feel better, but your spirit might take a hit. read more

My first time shopping at this store which had been recommended to me. Was there on a Wednesday late morning and there was only one customer but several sales associates waiting to help. I was greeted and explained why I was there and was shown my options. After making my selection (pickleball shoes) they accommodated me with appropriate socks and then the shoes to try. There was no price listed on the display, nor shoe box and when asked was told they were about $150. Got to the register and they were "on sale" for $99. I then signed up for their frequent shopper program and was told I'd get $20 off my next purchase. Overall good experience. I would prefer if price was marked on display. Associate told me M-W are best days to shop as not as crowded. Definitely will go back for my walking shoes! read more

My doctor recommended the store for my problematic feet. We were greeted by Marco, the store manager, who is all about service for the customer. Everyone was helpful, friendly and patient. I had three sales people helping me through the process of selecting the best shoes for my needs. read more

The sales people are busy at the cash register when they should be on the floor helping customers. I waited for 40 minutes and still I wasn't being helped. They should have permanent cashier people who stay at the registers and permanent sales people who stay on the floor helping customers. The sales people cannot do both. I won't go back, the waiting is way too much read more

The store has tremendous potential. They stock a large selection of shoes. In addition, they offer a great fitting process. That said, there is a tremendous low level of attention to customers. They will leave you waiting for 40-50 minutes while they stand around speaking to each other like you are not there! There is also an arrogance that is astounding. I have used them for years but it just isn't worth being treated like a nuance when I am a customer!!! I will not go back and I don't recommend you do either. It is a shame!!! read more

Amazing experience I had today when I did my gait analysis! Definitely recommend this place if you are a newbie at running! Location: it is located in Paramus. The store is huge with a lot of choices of shoes. There is a parking in the front. Employee: Beth is the best! She did my gait analysis. First she let me walk in the treadmill and did my 3d scan which is super cool! She explains well the structure of my foot then she recommended me few brands and styles of shoes. She is very knowledgeable on what she is doing and very patient to me as well. Service: I got my first running shoes here and it was amazing cause it fits perfectly. I got also the personalized insoles here which makes my running even better. Get the VIP membership, cause in case you don't like the shoes you can return it within 90 days of purchase. Definitely will come back here for everything related to my running! It was a fun and amazing experience! Thank you Beth! read more

Road Runner Sports - Sports Wear Near Me - Paramus, New Jersey

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Although the knowledge and service of the staff is good be prepared to invest 90 minutes to 2 hours to buy a pair of running shoes. You can't even try on a pair until you are assigned a salesperson. That alone can be up to an hour wait. Next is 30 minutes of suggestive selling. Socks, compression wraps, insoles, and more. Once you make your selection you are hit up again with more suggestive selling at the register. Feels a little used car lot like. Even though the sales staff is truly knowledgeable and helpful I'm not sure I would ever go back. read more

This store sucks! We knew what shoe we wanted and they lost the sale because you have to go through an entire process. It should be an option. I guess the store makes enough money that they don't care. Also, the rest of the young staff is clueless and to talk to a manager you need another 2 hours. The amount of time I was told to wait for my running shoe. Don't waste your time. It's not worth the aggravation. 1 star because you didn't let me pick zero. read more

Good Afternoon...I went to Road Runners last week to exchange a pair of sneakers that i didn't work for me. The salesperson was great. He exchanged my pair for the Brooks Ghost and i was extremely happy. Probably the best pair of sneakers i ever bought....Their the best read more

I am a devoted customer of this location. Yesterday, my husband and I needed new foot wear. I have some specific issues and need their expertise. This location is always busy, because of their professionalism and customer service. We plan ahead, knowing we will have a worthwhile experience. We were greeted at the door and the wait was told to us. We had a lovely lady, Akilah help us. She smiled the entire time. She spent quality time and was a joy to work with us. My husband and I walked out with great fitting foot wear and it was a great experience. And the manager was running the floor and register with a smile. This is not a run in and out place. this is a professional and customer service focused establishment. read more

There's going to be a wait, no question about that. However, they do give you lots of personal one on one attention to make sure you have your perfect fit. Also love their no questions asked returns / exchanges. read more

I came in on a busy Saturday after being recommended here from my father, who had been fitted for his shoes a few weeks prior. Beth was phenomenal and guessed all my pain points after a quick (but thorough) evaluation of my feet. After 17 years of competitive cheerleading and 3 years of holding my babies, I'm stunned to say that my new Brooks have taken care of my back pain. Their return policy is unbeatable too! I'll definitely be back. read more

Road Runner Sports - Brooks sneakers - Sports Wear Near Me - Paramus, New Jersey

Today was my first time at a Road Runner store and it was the best experience. I had a gentleman named Rich assist me and he made me feel comfortable about my feet and reassured me that he was going to find me the perfect shoe (which he did). He went out of his way to find me the right pair and he went above and beyond. Definitely will recommend this store and would love to come back! Thank you for making my experience a great one, Rich! Ending up getting the Hoka running shoes - very comfortable! Can't wait for my next run ‍ read more

Road Runner Sports - Hoka running shoes - Sports Wear Near Me - Paramus, New Jersey

I had a terrible experience on my first time visiting the store, was having breakfast in the plaza when I decided to take a walk. The store looked great from outside but extremely unfriendly attitude from the staff, rude manager and a rude sales person. Salesperson walked up to me and asked if I'm shopping or just looking which is very negative from the beginning, two minutes later I asked her for a pair of NB for my father in law, she dropped off the shoes and disappeared. I tried to ask the manager his opinion on another brand as a second pair and the guy can barely even look at me or just give me any type of attention then I decided to just grab another display and go to the same sales person to ask for two more pairs as I'm buying for my father in law who's not even with me so those were a definite purchase and guess what I tell the girl the size and she completely ignores me. Advise to all shoppers: if you're not a white American don't shop here as they are racist as hell!!!!! read more

I don't normally write reviews but road runners customer service was exceptional. I was helped by a wonderful lady named Beth who helped me with everything I needed. There was a 45 mi wait when I got there but it was totally worth it. Prices were also amazing. If your looking for a running shoe or everyday shoe this is the place! read more

This is hands down the best place to get running or walking sneakers. They will evaluate your feet and gate and find you the perfect shoe. It's life changing! read more

We went here on a friend's recommendation. They have a service for fitted insoles and type of shoes that is good for your running style and habits. This weekend is busy. There was a signup for the queue. We put our names did and waited for a bit. They were accommodating but seemed passive aggressive. Workers were barking with each other in front of the customers because they did not anticipate the influx. After some time we were called. I was given socks and told to stand in on the machine to get the computer's recommended size and type. I was not asked if I wanted go on the treadmill for further analysis. She seemed to know what type of runner I was already. We were given a couple recommended shoes and insoles were created. The lady gave a bit of an attitude for taking too long to choose. Then she started processing another customer while dealing with us. She seemed annoyed because it was just her and another coworker who were doing the fittings and analysis. The line to pay out was long and spend over $250. They have good but slow service. They are very knowledgeable with their products and services but somewhat unprofessional that day. read more

I called the store and listened to the voicemail. It said the store is open until 8pm. I arrived at the store at 6:05 only find it closed with a sign that read 'summer hours 10-6' I knocked ( more like aggressively banged) on the door and was told sorry we are closed. I explained what the voice message said and so was let in by Rios. Rios directed me and my daughter to Marco who treated us with the most outstanding customer service- patient, attentive, funny, engaging. I asked Marco to look at my history of shopping at the store. he told me 15 years! well here's to another 15! Marco and Rios- thank you both! you understand customer service and are simply outstanding! thank you so much for making it easy for me! can't wait to return. read more

This used to be a store where the salespeople were knowledgeable runners, and gave good advice on shoe brands based on your foot type, checked the fit, checked how your stride looked when you ran, etc. For me, this made the wait and price worth it, I was getting professional service. The last two times I've been there buying shoes, it seems like this philosophy has changed. Now it's basicially a Sports Authority. They brought me shoes (which were completely the wrong size and width), left me to myself to try them on and determine if the fit was right, and never checked the fit themselves. Basically, they brought the shoes out of the back room and left the rest to me. If I want this level of service I'll go to DSW and try on shoes with less markup and no wait time. So, yeah, I won't be back. read more

Had an awesome experience shopping at Road Runner Sports today with my mom, who has never had a pair of running shoes in her life. I already had an idea of what I was looking for. Justin took my mom through the whole analysis process and picked out some options for her. He answered all of our questions and was very thorough in making sure we both found a shoe that we were happy in. It was pretty busy today, so Shamz came over and picked up right where Justin left off. She gave us recommendations for socks and helped me place an online order for shoes that weren't in stock. We each ended up with a pair of running shoes and I got a cross-training shoe as well. Both Justin and Shamz were so knowledgeable and friendly. They made our experience truly enjoyable. I'll definitely be back at RRS Paramus the next time I need new shoes! read more

Road Runner Sports - Reebok Nano X2 - Sports Wear Near Me - Paramus, New Jersey

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Big thanks to Ted for all the help and support. I'm new to this thing called "running " and he went over and beyond to help.. Definitely will be back for another pair when needed read more

I hated my experience here and DO NOT recommend! I was looking for a new pair of running shoes to start training for a marathon in, as my current sneakers have been bothering my feet so much. Road Runner had so many great reviews and people had talked about all the custom fittings and great help they received from staff so I decided to stop by. I went on a very slow weekday morning and was helped right away. But all I was asked was what brand of shoe I wanted, which I was hoping to get more personal recommendations on because I didn't know what I was looking for. And then once a few pairs were brought out, the only thing that I was told by the sales associate was that he also had the same pair of shoes and that "they're comfortable." He seemed just very uninterested and not knowledgeable. He had then tried to "help me out" by saying that he would help me make a decision by signing me up for VIP for a year for free to give me a discount on my purchase. I had no idea what that even entailed but decided to take the shoes home for now. I immediately went to another local running shoe store that absolutely blew me away with their friendliness and customer service (highly recommend Fleet Feet in Montclair or Ridgewood!!) They provided a personal evaluation of my feet and sat with me through the whole process of finding shoes that fit my feet the best! A week later, I went to return the pair of shoes that I purchased at Road Runner because they were never the right shoes for my feet or my needs in the first place, only to realize that I had been charged an additional $20 for some VIP Rewards and lost that money back on my refund, when I had never agreed to pay to sign up for any VIP membership. Absolutely disgusted that they thought it was okay for them to sneak in a charge in like this. I DO NOT RECOMMEND ROAD RUNNER! Terrible experience trying to get fit for running shoes and read more

I purchased my very first pair of running shoes last weekend from this place. I must say, I was quite happy with my experience but would like to note a few things. The store can get very busy very fast. There were about 10-12 people inside before I walked in and it was an immediate 20 minute wait. I had no problem with this because I understand each customer receives a comprehensive scan, which I was looking forward to myself. After you receive your scan and shoes are brought to you, you definitely notice the workers start to float around and help other guests. Every expert was managing about 2-3 guests in rotation. Personally, I wasn't frustrated about this because I understood it was very busy and I don't really like anyone hovering over me when I'm shopping. But other people may not have my same feelings. Nevertheless, while my shopping experience did take me a little over an hour to get some shoes that I liked (I also got insoles molded and some socks haha), the two individuals that helped me out were absolutely fantastic and made every minute worth it. Both Jeremy and Lawrence took great care of me and I will definitely recommend this place to everyone I know to get their foot scanned and pick up some shoes. Shoutout to those two guys! Super friendly, super chill and kept it real with me the entire time. Great customer service goes a long way and everyone in the store was super friendly while trying to juggle every customer at once. read more

Road Runner Sports - On Cloudrunner 2 - Sports Wear Near Me - Paramus, New Jersey

I was so excited to get an evaluation so I could find a running shoe that would not only fit me well but help my performance. Upon arrival we were asked if we wanted a full evaluation and said yet. Then told it would be an hour wait. Ok.. it is what it is these things take time, so we waited. When they called my name, I told the guy which running shoes I currently ran in. He said ok lets measure you. Put me on a machine to measure me and got my size. Then he said "Ok what do you want to try".. uhhhhh I was hoping they would tell me what was best.. that was the point of driving so far to get here and waiting an hour (this is what I thought but did not say). So I said.. well I need a wide toe box I know that so he said ok these 3 brands have that and I picked one of the 3. He brought them to me and said I will be right back. 15 minuets went by. I went to where he was and asked if he was coming back. He said oh did you want to see another color? I said yes but I want to try others and I want to know which sneakers are for racing. He said "They are all for racing that is all we sell" Now, that is wrong and I explained to him that some sneakers are made for training and some for racing and not all are alike.. You would think if this is his job and a specialty store, he would know that at least! Then I said, why are you not putting me on the machines to evaluate me like everyone else. He said "Oh, you want an evaluation, I just had you for a fitting, if you want that I will have to put you on the waiting list" I was floored! I said NO I waited an hour on that list already.. Thats when he said "I will have to put you on the list and walked away from me and started taking people at the register again. I was so upset. No only did I drive so far to get their expert opinion and technology (that I did not get) I was treated like I just didn't matter. I was so excited to purchase new sneakers for my races and my training and I wound up leaving with nothing and wasting so much time. What a horrible experience. I will be glad to share my experience of Road Runners Paramus with the others in my running Club at our quarterly meeting! read more

This store has a wide selection of running shoes! I recommend doing their running assessment. They email you the results so you have your information. Rich was very patient wIth the three of us, and he seemed very knowledgeable. read more

Road Runner Sports - Sports Wear Near Me - Paramus, New Jersey

I had a fun time! Amanda was very patient with me. I was having trouble finding a right foot shoe that fit me well. She pulled out 6 boxes of the same shoe model and size until I found the perfect right comfortable shoe. Amanda could tell I was frustrated and about to give up. She was determined to have me leave the store happy. She smiled and started joking with me to lighten my mood. I finally found the right shoe and left happy! Thank you Amanda! read more

Wow! Waited an hour for a fitting but it was worth every second. Beth changed my life. I came in because I was struggling with my trail and gym routines. Beth showed me that I had severe hypermobility in my ankles, which was causing my problems. She fitted me for insoles and stability shoes and implored me to see a podiatrist. She was completely right. I have been seeing an occupational therapist, a podiatrist, and a physical therapist, who have suggested I might have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. I'm finally getting the support I needed: ankles braces, compression socks, and exercises to strengthen the muscles around my affected ligaments. I had no idea movement wasn't this hard for everyone. It's been a joy to learn strategies to make it easier. Thank you, Beth! Kinesiology can change lives. read more

My DH and I went on a Friday afternoon to the Paramus location to look for running shoes and they were slammed. It is also, back-to-school and they had 4 people working. Which is pretty good staff, but with the amount of time they take with customers, it does take a bit. Rich was awesome! Actually all the crew there was smiling, joking with customers and seemed happy to be there..which is rare when it's busy in a customer service field. We are just getting into running and Rich did the step evaluation and suggested inserts to assist in correcting our stride issues. He broke everything down and showed us on the screen and even did before and after the insoles. We both went with the Brooks Adrenalines as we are both heavier people and Rich explained the fit and stability of this shoe. He took a lot of time with us. Make sure you sign up for the VIP program for savings. Thanks to Rich and team...we will be back read more

Beth was fantastic. She knew just what I needed when I explained my difficulties finding the right fit. She searched all the inventory and found exactly the right shoe for me. Thanks Beth! read more

My experience was alright. I got there and waited 10 min to someone to see me, didn't bother me much, but then when I got the shoes I wanted and proceed to pay, the stores' card reader "wasn't working", my first attempt it did not read my card, and the costumer next to me, apparently was a company's problem, then the worker asked me to try again, I tried and got charged but they said it didn't go through and that I had to comeback the next day. I came back the next day, showed that the store indeed charged me but they said it didn't go through on their side and had to call my bank and fix that, even though it's their issue I'm the one that has to deal with it, and now I've been charged twice and waiting for my bank to dispute the charge. I had to come back to the store and get the shoes... read more

If you want to buy some running shoes ... make sure you sign in at the door. They go in order of the sign in sheet . Just have patience and you will get the best service and products. The wait is about 25 minutes on a Saturday. It's worth the wait . They make sure you get the right shoe that you need to correct the way you run . Patrick helped me out and he was awesome. I'm sure all the employees are very knowledgeable. You will not be disappointed. read more

I needed sneakers that will fit me well and comfortable Richard was very helpful and took his time with me I really appreciate it I shopped there before and I think he care of me once before thanks again for helping me Great customer service Anna read more

Racist group of people. I put my name down to get an analysis done, and I get a text that I am number one. This white guy walks in, and he's helped before me as I wait. This guy even tells the sales person I seem to be waiting, and the sales person proceeds to say he will just help him first. I guess the Asian female can wait. Awful!!! read more

Great experience, horrible experience, great experience...I'll explain. So I recently started jogging/walking and decided to purchase running sneakers. Looked for places to purchase running sneakers and came upon RRS, so I went. When I entered I was greeted and told how the process works, Beth was the sales lady that walked me through the evaluation which is free. Beth was amazing and on point, got a great pair of running sneakers and was happy so much so that I decided to take my gf to get her a pair of running sneakers. This is when the horrible experience happened. We went and was greeted by a young sales girl and she started the process. Her demeanor was snobby then became combative, so I told my girl get your stuff and let's get out of here. I couldn't believe the extreme difference in experience, I got in my car and called the store and asked for the store manager. I spoke with Kieth and he patiently listened and asked me to come back and he would make it right, I asked him when would Beth be there and made plans to go back. Well we went back and was taken care of by Beth. My girl was amazed by her knowledge and how she pointed out specific things of her feet. My girl got her sneakers which Beth said will also be good for the type of work my girl does. Beth is the best! read more

Road Runner Sports - Sports Wear Near Me - Paramus, New Jersey

After purchasing expensive custom insoles and paying extra for a VIP membership, I returned to the Paramus, NJ, store yesterday to use a promised discount. When the sales clerk typed in my name and email address, nothing came up after several tries. This led to confusion, wasted time and frayed tempers. The clerk was rude, and told ME to call customer service to fix the problem. An unpleasant experience. read more

I went in today and Jet helped me. He was so sweet and attentive and I left with the perfect shoes

Went with my husband to look for sneakers for is heel spurs. Beth was extremely helpful and promised him she will be able alleviate the pain with a custom fit orthodics. Beth made the orthodics and within 10 minutes they were done. He could try it for 90 days and if he is unhappy he will be refunded the full amount. It's now 3 hours later and he feels much better! Thank you Beth! read more

My wife and I just came from the store. Beth helped us and could not have been more helpful and friendly. She spent a lot of time with us and it was so informative. We each purchased a pair of Hokas and we will definitely return and recommend the store to our friends. Thanks Beth. read more

So I'm a pretty forgiving person, and after outreach from Customer Service, I was credited the return shipping. Still, feeling a bit burned, I resolved never to order shoes again from RR (or anywhere) as long as free return shipping wasn't part of the deal. ...and then they lured me back in with a $20 VIP anniversary credit. I mean, who can pass up that?! So I ordered my go-to road shoes in a no-fail size that I was sure would fit. I said "was" because it's now 7 business days since my order and my shoes are still "processing" and have not even shipped. I'm not sure what "processing" means, but RR customer service put it on the "vendor" as my shoes ship directly from them. I was told I'd have my shoes in 10 business days. Uh...not holding my breath. This company lives and operates in 1995...charges you for return shipping, and takes nearly two weeks to get your shoes to you. Once again, I'm resolving never again to buy shoes from RR. There are just too many other shops with competitive pricing and smoother (and more modern) logistics. read more

I could not have had a better experience at Road Runner Sports! I've been having trouble finding the right pair of sneakers for months. MICHELLE W was extremely knowledgeable and patient. She identified the issue with my old shoes and found the correct ones with additional stability. If you're looking for some personalized help I highly recommend this store and especially Michelle W. read more