Walk or run....however you do it, get yourself to Running Etc for your next pair of shoes. I desperately needed a new pair of walking shoes. My feet were aching and I wanted some help. The employees at Running Etc will first watch you walk and then pull out of few show selections that they recommend for you. My choices to try on were a pair of Brooks, the Hoka Bondi, and the Hoka Clifton. They were all comfortable but I ultimately chose the Clifton and wow, they feel so good. My arches feel supported and my heels feel like they are nuzzled in on cuddly pillows. They feel so amazing that I want to wear them ALL THE TIME. My husband was also In recently to get fitted and he chose the Hoka Bondi. They also carry great sunglasses at reasonable prices that are perfect for runners. My son needed a pair so I sent him in for those. You can't ask for better customer service and great selection. read more

I did not had a good customer service coming here. I wanted a professional advice on the type of shoes I needed but the salesperson was not helpful. I visited another location and got all the help I needed. read more

Your friendly neighborhood running shop is on Colley Ave in Ghent! The folks inside are super helpful, they have a great selection of sneakers and running gear, and are super plugged into local races and run clubs. Whether you need race-day quality gear, general athletics performance equipment, all-weather items, or sports nutrition, aka the ETC of Running ETC, someone will be there to help you be your best runner! Come out and support a great local business, then get some miles in!! read more

I was shocked to see this place's size when I walked it. I wouldn't have guessed the size when I saw it from the outside. The folks that work here are so friendly! I just feel like runners vibe well with other runners. They're helpful and full of knowledge. I also like that they are runners themselves. When I bought shoes at the New Balance store in NYC, the girl helping me couldn't give me training advice or recommendations because she wasn't "Active"... weird. But here, the gentleman that helped me was so full of knowledge! We talked about where we liked to run in the area. I ended up just buying in soles since it's been a year and a half since the last ones I bought. Will I come back? Yeah, of course!! read more

I came in here for a new pair of sneakers to exercise in. I was the only person in the store so I got helped immediately by John L. The whole process for choosing shoes was very thorough and I tried on several pairs from different brands. I ultimately chose the ascics gel cumulus shoes and they're great! It's definitely opened my eyes on how much more comfortable shoes can be. They also were able to give me a healthcare discount which was much appreciated. I definitely recommend this store for everyone who is looking to up their shoe game! read more

All I can say is WOW! Coming to running Etc is an experience. The staff literally caters to your every need. Once you arrive and are greeted, your associate Asks that you walk for them. As they watch, this allows them to identify if you have flat feet or a super high arch. Having this information they have a better knowledge of what type of support you may need, they then measure your feet and custom fit you to the ideal sneaker that Is suitable for your specific needs. I was more than impressed with the service and quality of products at this store. My podiatrist Highly Recommended coming to this store and being fitted for a transitional sneaker after my cast and walking boot period, for a broken foot injury. I was given so much care upon making my selection. I feel confident that my new sneakers will help speed up my recovery time... In addition a military discount is available. read more

Running Etc - New kicks - Shoe Stores Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

The folks at Running ETC are dedicated professionals who have a commitment to serving and educating their customers on the various aspects of running well. Mike Robinson has built a terrific business located at 1707 Colley Avenue in the heart of the Ghent section of Norfolk. Mike is a runner with the heart of a teacher who has trained his staff to serve his customers by offering great products professionally fitted to suit your needs. You will not find this level of personal service at the big box stores. It takes time to get fitted so if you are in a hurry, don't expect to walk in and out with an ill-fitting shoe, they do not do business that way. They are multitaskers who can serve multiple customers at the same time and that helps to save time but you go here to get top level service, if that is important to you. You might pay a little more but you walk out with shoes that are fitted to your personal needs and fitness level. If you are looking for great customer service, terrific running shoes that are professionally fitted, stop by Running ETC, you will be happy that you did and you can rest assured that you are supporting local business!!! read more

Running Etc - Outside signage - Shoe Stores Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Running Etc was highly recommended by several of our friends when my son began to develop pain in his knees and ankles after runs. I have a personal friend that works at this location. She was one that said that we should check them out a few years ago. This time I was shopping with my daughter. The location is in Ghent. Surface street parking is free. The area had debris in the area, but the walk up was clear of trash. I consider the area safe to walk in at night. The retail clothing portion is downstairs, the shoes upstairs. Checkout is on the first floor by the doors. I found the store to be super organized and clean. They had a remodel a few years ago. They sell everything running related, so if you are a runner this should be a terrific find if you have not shopped here. My daughter and I were approached by an older male clerk. He discussed options in running shoes and measured her feet. He had her walk and run back and forth and made recommendations. After trying on four pair of shoes we decided on Nike. He was professional and at no time did I feel pressure to purchase. Where Running sets themselves apart is superb service. They are like no other shoe store I'm aware of in a Hampton Roads. They are proactive and patient with customers. With the ultimate goal to get the right fit and style for their customers so they will return. Checkout was efficient and we were on our way. Pricing is the same and in many cases more reasonable than say a Foot Locker. I would recommend not only for runners, but everyone. read more

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Their staff is extremely knowledgeable and patient. The range of brands and their strengths are presented during the initial discussion. They presented almost 15 pairs for my teenager to review (including color selections). read more

Well stocked, fairly priced local running shop. You want one size fits all buy this shoe because the commercials tell you to I'd suggest another store. If you would like to deal with local folks who also run this is the spot in Norfolk! The staff is very knowledgeable without being pushy. Super friendly too! They will help you with sizing and fit as well. Highly recommend at least checking them out before you buy another shoe that's not right for you! Ok took me two days to write this and ended up back her for a fitting for my oldest minion. John was excellent! Don't tell anyone but was even kind enough to suggest alternate places to buy quality kids shoes since he knows how quick kids grow! We ended up getting shoes for biggest and middle minion! We will for 1000 percent be back! read more

My 13-year-old and I had the best experience at this athletic shoe store. I was primarily looking for a running shoe for my daughter, having chosen poor choices based on shoe ratings in past years. I needed to determine what to look for or what would be a proper fit. This store was advertised in such a way that they would help you find the best fit. A *genuinely* friendly sales lady (clearly an experienced runner based on her physique) courteously asked us what we needed; I told her, and then the magic started - lol. She measured my daughter's feet and had her walk around the store to determine her walking gate and whether she suffered from supination or pronation. She figured it out in short order, asked my daughter what color sneaker she liked, and proceeded to bring out several different brands and sizes of shoes. My daughter tried all of them and walked around again, and we landed on a great pair of Brooks, which I wouldn't have thought would be the best choice for her. She's been wearing them often, loves them, and says she can run better and her feet do not hurt. I was so happy with the sales lady's expertise and kindness that I asked her to help me pick a pair, and she was equally generous with her time with me. This store had two sales that day. I highly recommend it! read more

As a newfound runner, I knew I needed to head to a specialty store for some individualized attention in order to find a running shoe fit for me. I've received multiple recommendations for Running Etc, and I'm so glad I listened to them! As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by Mike who was the only employee working at the time. Once I told him I was looking to buy a new pair of running shoes, he led me upstairs where all of the shoes are. We sat for a moment and talked about my goals and experience with running. Since he knew I was new, I greatly appreciated all of the knowledge he shared and guidance throughout the process. He started by having me jog down their little runway setup to observe how my feet hit the ground and if I would need some extra stability. He was able to explain a couple things he saw as I ran and what might be best for me. Mike pulled 5 pairs of shoes for me to try, each a different brand since I was unbiased going in. After trying each with a quick jog, I used process of elimination to narrow in on the first pair I had tried on. Mike explained some popular opinions (which I had no idea about) on opting for a larger shoe size and how it relates to your frequency and distance when running. This helped me choose a size that was definitely larger than I would normally wear, but already felt much better than my current shoes. They have a treadmill to try out if you would like, too. I appreciated Mike taking the time to answer all of my questions and making sure I understood his explanations for things. I ended with three colors to choose from and selected my favorite. I also purchased some socks and discounted leggings, shorts, and reflection belt. I had to stock up while I was there! They have a vast selection of nutritional items, clothing, accessories, and pretty much anything else you would want as a runner. I was super excited that they offer a military discount as well. I was totally impressed with my experience here. Even with multiple customers, Mike balanced working with each of us without ever having to wait too long. Bottom line: stop in for any and all running needs! read more

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I am so annoyed with myself for not coming in here sooner! I wanted to get properly measured and "analyzed" to find a shoe that really worked for me. I worked with Drew, who was so helpful and friendly. I was in with the 3 year old that I nanny for, who told Drew her whole life story while he helped me out. He was very kind in interacting with her while I was trying the shoes on and walking around. I actually left with a pair I had been looking at online before hand. They ended up being the perfect fit after trying on 5 or 6 pairs and doing comparisons. Drew also double checked and found a pair from the sale section of last year's models, and they were luckily the exact color I would have picked from all the options. (Will definitely be back when the new models come out to get the now-current model in the other color I was coveting! ) The prices were exactly what I had seen on the same pairs anywhere else (Zappos, Amazon, Brooks, etc), and the suggestions based on your individual needs are far beyond what you will get trying to order shoes online. I will definitely be buying all athletic shoes from Running Etc as long as we are in Norfolk. read more

Had the pleasure of spending money on Small Business Saturday at my favorite running store. This is by far the best place for running shoes. This visit was all about socks but my husband and I (and all of our running friends) get our shoes from here also. Everyone is so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. They will look at how you run and make sure you are in the proper shoe, YES it makes a difference. What's even more awesome is how they are a part of the community. I usually see them as the pacers at local races. read more

Living on the other side of the water, there aren't many places I would drive to if I don't have other places to go. But I have an affinity for the Ghent section. After some local gelato, I decided to walk inside. It's two levels high, with the shoes and accessories up top, clothing down below. It's not what I would call posh or super over the top nice, it has a little bit of a gritty feel with a little bit of torn carpet and the tiny corner bathroom. The staff was very helpful and friendly and even though I wasn't coming for shoes, I would consider coming back for those. read more

I love coming here to get running shoes. I'm getting back into running more after taking about 8 months off being a lazy slob and gaining weight. There was a gentleman here working that I've never seen before, but he was seriously like the running shoe whisperer! He had informed me that he had just finished biking from Maryland to the Hampton Roads area. An impressive feat, I must say! When I came up the stairs, he was standing there waiting, politely greeted me then asked me to take off my shoes and socks and run down the hall on the second floor and back. When I returned, he was looking at my feet quickly glanced at me then turned to the shoes on the wall and pointed to 3 shoes that would be perfect for my feet. I tried on all three and was in heaven. I ended up getting the Hoka running shoes because I liked the colors they were available in for my size (14 wide) and they felt like I was running on an air mattress! I forgot to get his name so I could mention him in this review, but that man is the person to go to for to get shoes. I'm in no way taking away from the other fine employees there, but he just plainly put it out there about what is best for your feet. read more

Love this store- after doing some online research end review reading and knowing what I was looking for, the had it, they affirmed my research, and they gave a military discount! Much better than ordering online end hoping for the best with sizing, etc. read more

My physical therapy coworkers have been bugging me to check this place out because of my complaining of foot pain after running so I finally went. I have flat feet and up until recently, I have been having foot and ankle pain after running. My shoes were the problem. I go inside and was greeted by Mike and was brought upstairs with the shoes and mini ramp for running. He wanted to watch me run to determine what shoe type I need and he found the right style. He had me try three different shoes to jog in and walk so I can pick the best one. He was very informative and you can tell he knows the running shoe business as he has been running for 40 years. As a healthcare professional, I was thoroughly educated about running and the type of shoes for arch type. Shoes can be expensive but being pain-free is a great investment. Great experience and would recommend this place for novice and veteran runners. Also, they offer no hassle exchanges and returns. They just want you to be happy with your shoes and running etc read more

I've never been a real runner I'm the 2-4 mile max type of girl but I was in search of new running shoes. I typically would just go to the running section of any shoe store find a shoe I liked, purchase just to realize during the first test run not good running shoes so they end up in the gym shoe pile. I have a lot of friends that run marathon's etc and told me the importance of good running shoes so I thought I come to a specialty running store. I came here on a Saturday of a holiday weekend. It's on Colley so I didn't see much parking but luckily I did find street parking just up the block. Soon as I entered the store everyone was friendly. I wasn't sure what to do but I saw all the shoes were on second floor so just headed upstairs. There were few people working all helping other customers but let me know immediately someone would be with me shortly. I just sat on the bench and waited it really didn't take long. Once it was my turn the sales rep asked how he could helped told him I needed help finding a good pair of running shoes and I had no clue how I ran. So he asked me to take off my shoes/socks and walk down the hallway when I came back asked me to jog down the hallway barefoot. This is to help analyze your running gait which apparently I'm neutral. He also measures your foot to make sure you get the right size. I think I'm the only one on the world that didn't know your running shoe should be 1/2 to full size larger than your normal day to day pair. Once we got the basics out the way now the hard part trying to find right shoe/style I liked. I never understood why running shoes can't be basic black I'm a simple girl lol. But he brought out Puma, Nike and Brooks which I never had heard of but I settled on Brooks. Overall I was very pleased with this store and its friendly/knowledgeable staff. I have already recommended to my friends who are new runners to stop in to get the right running shoes for them. read more

When I was first starting out, running seemed simple. Just strap on some shoes and go. Then I made my way up to 10 miles and my knee was not having it. I had no idea how important good shoes and gear were before this point. I learned my lesson the hard way, having to nurse an injury. I'm pretty sure many other people do the same thing. I wish I had started out by going to Running Etc. first. First thing, get good shoes! The staff will analyze your gait and recommend shoes for you based on if you over pronate, under pronate or are neutral. I selected some Asics and tried them out on my next run. My feet were miserable and burning. Even though I had worn them, Running Etc took them back. I tried a pair of Mizuno Creations next and it was like they were meant for me. There are always many runners in there who will offer you advice and share tips. They have a great selection of merchandise. it's a bit expensive and you could order some of the things online for cheaper, but you're paying for the service. If you're a beginner or a top athlete, they've got what you need. read more

I am very very very pleased with Running Etc. First, the place was bigger than I imagined. Heck, I didn't care for what was on the shoe wall or what was for sale --- it was the service I received. I'm not in the market to buy new running shoes so when I stopped by this place today to "window shop" I had no expectation to purchase anything. Well, turns out that I ended up spending money anyway... Everyone employee, I would say at least five people, greeted me. One employee was working with a kid on picking up a new pair of shoes and they were having an extensive conversation to find him a perfect pair. Two associates offered to help me on both the upstairs and downstairs level. I had a simple question regarding compression leg sleeves in preparation for this weekend's Disney Half Marathon and the sales associate spoke to me for five minutes asking various questions to help me determine if using the sleeves would be beneficial. That impressed me more that he was probing as oppose to just trying to push me to buy something. An overall great experience for a simple purchase. I did opt for the pink leg sleeves by the way. I told the sales rep it was so I can stand out in the most awkward way possible. All brands of shoes are available and their prices seem to be in line with the national shoe store chains. So when it is time to make the move to buy a new pair of kicks I'll certainly give this place my business. read more

Friendly, helpful staff. Bought Brooks and they were great for my trip that involved lots of walking.

This is the nicest locally owned running shop I've ever been in. Two floors of running bliss. I came in because they were having an end-of-the-year sale on clearance shoes and happened to have one of my favorite models on clearance. I ended up with a different pair than what I had intended to buy- $46 for a shoe that retails at $120! I'm sure I'll like them; I've always been a big Adidas fan. I love the layout of the place. The first floor is all apparel and gear, while the second floor has shoes and socks. I really, really like how they have a special section upstairs dedicated to discontinued models that are on clearance. They even list the sizes that are in stock for each of the models on clearance. Super convenient for someone like me, who knows the shoes and doesn't need any special attention. That being said, I could see that individualized attention was being provided to others who needed it. They have some cool posters and maps of popular running spots and routes near the store, things that add to the running vibe. I'll definitely make a point to stop here when in the area. read more

Personally - I'm not a running gal. In my mind the only things that should be running are the refrigerator and other house hold appliances. However, my 19 year old son LOVES to run and has been in cross-country every year. Needless to say, this is one of his favorite stores. Over the years I've bought him many running shoes here and other running products. My only issue with this place is that their personal customer service is TOO good. Hahahaha - what I mean by this is that they spend so much time helping each and every customer, even though they have one or two people running the store, that many times my son and I have had to wait over 20 minutes just to ask a question. And then when they finally do get around to helping us 10 minutes later, then it takes another 30 minutes for my son and the clerk to figure out the best shoe. So, a quick stop at Running Etc, just doesn't exist unless you go there knowing you're not going to buy anything. Besides that, their products seem to be very high quality. read more

Dont judge me by me saying this, but I was hoping that they had sneakers for things other than running. I have a high foot and do alot of high impact aerobic activity except running and thought I could come here for a good pair of sneakers that give me a cushion with arch support. They only had either one or the other, not both. The salesman suggested I try sports authority or dicks sporting goods where they would have a better variety of that style of shoe. Its too bad cause I really hoped they could help me. Sidenote, the salesman could do a better job at only helping one customer at a time. When i was there he started servicing 2 other people when i was still talking to him. read more

I was in need of shoe boxes for a project and decided to call local shoe stores. This was the first one I called and I asked if they had any they were planning to throw away/recycle. They were very friendly on the phone and told me to stop by. When I got there, they had more boxes ready for me than I asked for. I really appreciated Mike's help! I plan to actually shop here in the near future read more

My favorite running store in Hampton Roads. I always go here when I need new shoes- they have a great selection and the people are super nice and knowledgeable. Last time I stopped by I was suffering from a major case of indecisiveness, but the girl was ridiculously patient and keep bringing out box after box for me. I would tell her the most vague comments (e.g. "they just don't feel right") and she was like a little shoe detective trying to find my perfect pair. What else is awesome about this store? Cute running clothes! For both sexes! My boyfriend wears his "running is a mental sport...we're all insane" shirt like a favorite pair of jeans. I wish I lived nearby so that I could join their weekly runs. Darn tunnel. read more

I stopped in Running Etc. over the weekend to purchase a running water bottle and couple GU packets for a trail race I had coming up. The prices are reasonable and they had exactly what I was looking for. The staff was so friendly and I stayed for awhile just chatting. If you need anything running related, I definitely recommend checking out Running Etc. I can't wait to join them on their group run on Thursday! read more

Doctor said get your daughter some running shoes (slowly recovering from ankle surgery and hereditary clumsiness) so based on the recommendation of a complete stranger while we were shopping somewhere else, we carried ourselves to Ghent. Quick help as soon as we walked in. The woman that helped us, spent a lot of time with us, watching the kid walk to see what she needs, and to be sure that the shoes she was trying were the best option for her... and my apathetic 16 year old with a (reasonable) aversion to the horrific neon that is running shoe fashion wasn't the easiest to work with. But she found the least ocularly offensive version she could, and we all left happy, even the kid (well...happy-ish, anyway). She's been wearing them and says she is feeling the difference, so it makes spending a bit more than I like to spend on ugly shoes worth it. Kudos. read more

I came in with foot pain from plantar fasciitis and Drew went far and beyond to help me. I tried on several shoes, he called other stores for shoe availability and he showed me rolling techniques to help relieve pain. Drew was helpful and knowledgeable which made for a great experience during a painful time. I will definitely be back soon for another pair of shoes! read more

A really great experience very helpful took their time with me, overall I just didn't feel like they were rushing me to make a purchase. Great experience read more

I'm an avid runner but have been encountering some injuries and slower paces lately, so I stopped in to chat. Not only did they provide a free gait analysis, but my sales associate spent at least 45 minutes with me, talking about training, stretches, and shoe support systems while recommending different shoes and asking me to try them on and run the store in them. By the end, I walked out with a new pair (in a different brand, and on sale, at her recommendation over some twice as expensive because I ran better in them), a brochure for a race she thought I'd enjoy, and an invite to both their mailing list an run group training sessions. What more cane you ask of a running store? read more

Great selection & wonderful staff. Helped my wife find what she needed & answered all her questions. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to start back into running. read more

Super find in Norfolk. Selection is great (all high-end shoes, so nothing less than $70 or so), Staff is excellent (knowledgeable, patient, friendly). They provide gait analysis (they watch you run in your current shoes, your socks, and in all the potential shoes). They give you their opinion, they don't seem to push one brand over another (I tried on Saucony, Asics, Nike, New Balance and Adidas) and they have a LUCKY WALL which is their sale wall with limited sizes. I got lucky. A nice pair of New Balance 1080s for $99. Very happy. Life others have said - the gait analysis is so helpful. Such a different experience from going to a mega sports store, where you're lucky if the salesman knows the difference between a stability shoe and a flat. read more

As an overweight, beginning runner, I was a little intimidated to set foot inside a running store in the first place, but Running Etc. was wonderful. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and makes sure you are completely satisfied and comfortable before you leave the store. They often have good sales on shoes, and when I bought a pair that didn't work out, they exchanged them for me and took the time to make sure I left with the correct shoe. I highly recommend this store! read more

Being an avid walker, I have always bought running shoes to walk in because they feel better. I had been relying on chain stores in malls to purchase my shoes, but I never received much help in making a selection. Then I discovered Running, Etc. Everyone who works there is an enthusiastic runner, and they are more than happy to help walkers, too. They watched me walk, both in shoes and in socks, to check for pronation and other issues that certain shoes could correct. They recommended several pairs of shoes, then had me walk on a treadmill to test them out. While on the treadmill, there was a camera aimed at the back of my shoes, and the video played on a screen in front of me, so I could watch my stride in each pair of shoes. I really enjoyed my experience and my shoes are great. I highly recommend this store to runners and walkers! read more

My nine year old has decided she wants to run. She already runs, a lot, but she was talking about more serious distance running. I decided that a solid pair of running shoes was in order. Children can get running injuries just as easily as adults. In my opinion, the two Running Etc. stores are the only local homes to experts. They always have staff there who are trained in observing your run and appropriately matching you to a shoe that fits your style. We went on a Saturday after lunch and they were slammed. There was barely room to move. There were about 3 kids there getting fitted for track shoes, in addition to adult runners. We were greeted and waited patiently. Our sales rep could not have been nicer. She watched my girl run, then brought out an assortment of shoes. She waited patiently while every shoe was tried and tested, providing insight and suggestions. Having experienced some new/recent foot pain from my own excercise I was also analyzed and I got a new pair too! Yes, both pairs are less expensive online. I don't really care. I will continue to go to Running Etc. and buy shoes there because I appreciate the personalized service they provide. It's a dying art people!!! Most shoe stores don't even have staff that can properly measure your feet, much less recommend different shoe styles based on an analysis of your run. read more

GREAT customer service! I am a novice in the world of running but they were super friendly, didn't put on airs, and were very accommodating to me as a shopper with a young child. They accurately assessed my foot issues and found a good sneaker for plantar fasciitis. AND they found me shoes that were on sale. They didn't upsell me or offer me gadgets and gizmos that I didn't need. It was honestly a really great experience, especially on the heels of my trip to another area store (see my other review) where the employees just could not have been bothered. I will definitely return to Running Etc when I am in the market for a new pair of running shoes and will recommend it to my area friends. read more

I cannot say enough about this place. I am blown away by their service and knowledge of running. My stride was observed by three different employees and I was given a ton of running advice. They have a military discount and when I got home I found that they had thrown some promotional gear in my bag, to include a teeshirt, socks, and a backpack. If you are serious about running or just getting in to it like me, I highly recommend this store. read more

Went in to get my running looked at because I kept getting shin splints. The guy that helped me was extremely nice and knowledgeable. He sized me, selected several different shoes for me to try, let me run on the treadmill to try them out, and even talked to me about little changes I could make to make things more comfortable and enjoyable. He invited me to join their running club (free) as well. When I mentioned I'd heard about compression socks for shin splints he said they had them, but didn't think they were necessary for me. I loved that he didn't just try to make money off me and sell me everything, and he spent a great deal of time showing and explaining everything to me. I wouldn't hesitate to go back! read more