Mel & crew are the best!! Knowledgeable, friendly. The place to go for any running gear, footwear issues. They also have training, information and a run group that meets there every Monday. Have been going there for many years. Highly recommended. read more

I've never walked (definitely not ran!) out of that store without a perfectly comfortable, well fitting shoe. May be a bit pricy but you do get what you pay for! read more

They give you all the attention you need and are eager to answer all questions. They are not satisfied unless you as the customer is satisfied . Mel is super involved in the process of getting you into the right shoes read more

Nothing is more important than your feet. I love getting running shoes at running for kicks. They know how to fit your feet, and make sure you are loving your new shoes. The owner is a great guy and so friendly! read more

I was in therapy & it was suggested that I purchase a pair of Brooks shoes from here. I was told to see the owner Mel which I did. He was 100% helpful, put me on their treadmill to take a 5 minute walk to make sure they felt good. Not pushy, perfect owner, will be back for sure!! read more

Running For Kicks - Brooks Dyed 11 - Shoe Stores Near Me - Palos Heights, Illinois

When my girls were starting cross country we had no idea the science behind shoes. I honestly, would have taken the advise of a runner or coach and got them the same shoes. Luckily, we were referred to Running for Kicks. Here they had they walk and run to see where they put the pressure when they move. One of my dangers is flat foot. We learned which shoes had more support in the arch and which had a more sturdy outer sides, as my other daughter walks more on the outside of her foot. Thanks Running for Kicks read more

I just back into running after several years and have been struggling with pain issues with longer distances. The owner took the time to measure my feet, observe my gait, and help me select my ideal pair of shoes. I am so grateful for his help! The shoes I bought were the same price on Amazon, but Amazon does not offer this kind of amazing customer service. Plus their exchange policy is very generous. read more

First time at Running for Kicks and it was a wonderful (judgement free) experience. Personally I love going for walks and hikes but never cared about proper foot ware, which lead to lots of blisters, shin splints, and lower back pain. Finally decided it was time to invest in my footwear. The store manager sat me down and explained the importance of the shoes features, gave me multiple pairs to try based on my personal needs. It's been about 3 weeks with the new shoes and socks, and I've noticed such a difference in how I feel and an increase in my daily walking distance! read more

Running For Kicks - Women's Brooks (Size 9 1/2) Feetures Socks (Size Medium) - Shoe Stores Near Me - Palos Heights, Illinois

I legit went in to ask Mel the owner for a favor and I ended up walking out with a brand new pair of shoes. That I did not at all expect to buy. We got to talking about many things such as iron mans, marathons, injuries, ect. And I told him what bothered me when I ran. He said let me pick out three pairs of shoes that may work for u. And the second pair I tried on felt like clouds while running. I could of avoided so many high impacting runs that hurt if I just went here earlier on. Totally worth the price and the experience was fun cause Mel is just such a cool knowledgeable guy. Highly recommend going there and getting a pair of running or walking shoes specifically for u based on ur goals and how ur body is shaped. Thanks Mel way to sell me when I totally wasn't even thinking about buying a thing lol. read more

Running For Kicks - Shoe Stores Near Me - Palos Heights, Illinois

This place is fantastic! Even when I admitted up front that I don't run, Mel was so kind and helpful. He analyzed my gait, asked about what I did for exercise, and said the magic words: "shoes should be comfortable right away--no break-in period." Yes, please! He got me a fabulous pair of shoes and took the time to explain why they were right for my feet. Thank you, Running for Kicks! Do not hesitate to make the trek to this amazing store. read more

I just bought my second pair of gym shoes from Mel and his store. And he's incredible. The shoe whisperer. The first time I bought them I had broken my ankle and my PT recommended the store. He is interested in how you walk, how you wear your shoes and what your needs are. A wholistic view. All stores should care for their clients like this. If you need sneakers, gym shoes, running shoes, tennis shoes, walking shoes, whatever you want to call them. Go see Mel. read more

I recently came in to get fitted for a pair of shoes. I'm not a long distance runner, but need a pair that would fit my wide feet. I was very pleased with the assortment of shoes that they had. The service was friendly and the store felt very clean. I'll be bring my wife in for a pair since she is never happy with what she finds online. read more

Really good staff and inventory. Great prices too. Look out for sidewalk sales for bargains

Today I had the pleasure of meeting Mel. I recently injured my knee due to wearing the incorrect shoes. Mel measured my feet and had me walk to determine the type of shoe(s) I needed. He recommended two brands. After trying on each brand, Mel had me walk outside. I must say the shoes felt as if they were made for my feet. He is very knowledgeable . Thank you Mel for educating me on my feet, understanding my needs and the great service. I recommend this establishment and will be returning for my next pair of shoes. read more

Highly recommend. Got to meet the owner who is a lifelong marathoner. Great man who is very knowledgeable and helpful. Lots of sale items. Even had s $5 bin of clothing. Keep up the great service Mr. Diab. read more

Running For Kicks - Shoe Stores Near Me - Palos Heights, Illinois

Our third time to this store was our last. They didn't have any choices for colors and I was only given the option of an all black shoe. Asked the attendant if he would order another color, his response 'well we can order, but we don't know if or when that order would arrive'!! So I reluctantly purchased the needed shoe in a color I didn't want. I ordered right from the Hoka site on my way home, got a selection of colors, sizes and styles. Ordered two pair on the way home. Will be here in a couple days. Maybe this business needs to know the reality of ordering for a customer before saying it isn't something that would be dependable. The staff sits around watching tv while we waited for someone to assist us. We had to ask someone in the seated group of workers for assistance. read more

This is a great store to buy running shoes Etc.. I was having some problems with my feet and wearing Orthotics he which was the owner which very kind person and very helpful and knowledgeable and a runner himself. Help me find a really great pair of sneakers because I'm on my feet at work a lot. If it mean with a sneaker with high arches that I needed and ask me to walk around and then make sure that they were the right pair for me I went through a few of them and bought some other things are special socks really a great place very friendly. read more

Upon walking in the store we were immediately greeted with a friendly person asking if he could help. Told the gentleman that my daughter needed spikes. He asked her what events she was in and measured her foot. She was presented with options and some good advice as well. (An extremely knowledgeable individual.) Listen up people, this is why you patronize local businesses. We will be back. read more

My boyfriend and I have shopped here before. Last time we were here was about 2 years ago, and he purchased new shoes while I just hung out. We returned last night with intention of shopping around for new running shoes. We had no plans to purchase shoes, but the experience was very positive and it became apparent that we needed to make a purchase. We were greeted by a very friendly woman whose name I did not get (Blast!). But she had short cropped hair and very athletic long legs. She took a look at both of our shoes and our feet and really tried to find the best fitting shoes. She also took the time to explain them to me and how my patterns of running looked based on the shoe wear. It was delightful to talk with her and she didn't just have the mentality that all she wanted was to sell shoes. She asked if I had goals or if I was going to do any races this year. The shoes I picked out were $110 and Dan's were $115. I know that I could go home and buy them on ebay or amazon for a little cheaper. But this small business took the time to let me try on new shoes and wear them. They gave me personal attention and really listened to me. You don't get that at Dick's Sporting Goods or Amazon.com. We both bought a pair of shoes and couldn't be happier. What a great little local shop that I would recommend to anyone seriously taking up running or training! read more

Four weeks out from my first marathon, I came here with my hair torn out and nearly in tears because my new pair of Brooks were making me blister like crazy and I couldn't run more than 3 miles without peeling the skin off my feet. They calmed me down, took my Brooks and fitted me with another, much better pair. Mel is always quick to dispense advice when you need it about training, racing, tapering, ANYTHING. Everyone here is friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable, but not at all judgmental about your level of fitness or running experience. They just want to get you the best shoes for your feet. read more

10 stars !!!! What else Can be said that hasn't already been said ?!?! Best running store around. Fun runs on Monday , couch to 5k program is FREE !!!! Thank you to everyone one at RFK ... Y'all keep me moving forward . read more

Despite repeated recommendations from friends, I held off going to Running for Kicks because it isn't the closest to my house. what a mistake on my part. I spoke with Colleen when I went to pick up my packet for the Newton Ready to Run and was so impressed I went back. She took the time to talk to me about my running style, analyze my feet, discuss the type of shoes she was bringing out and why she thought they would be good for me. I had originally hoped to buy Newtons (which the store doesn't have yet) and in looking at how my shoes were wearing, Colleen talked to me about my gait and running form giving me excellent tips. I was so impressed with her knowledge and the time she spent with me and I really felt that I bought a pair of shoes that will work. Best part, I felt comfortable trying these new shoes knowing I could return them if they didn't work for any reason. I didn't feel I was sold a pair of shoes just to be sold. I will definitely be buying all future running shoes at Running for Kicks and recommending the store to my friends. read more

Amazing shoe store. I had foot surgery last year on both my feet and recently got back into walking and the athletic shoes that I had made my feet so sore after my walks. A few friends of mine recommended I try going to a store where they evaluate my feet as I walked, so I did some research and this was the store I picked. The staff there was so friendly and after I explained my foot problems the gentleman went in the back and picked out 3 pairs of shoes for me. I tried all 3 pairs on and walked down the block and back and picked out the best shoes. I purchased them, walked out of the store with them on, came home and did a 3 mile walk with no foot pain at all. I will definitely be back in 6 months. They have earned my business and I will recommend them to all my friends!! read more

Running for Kicks is awesome! Their selection of shoes was great. The staff was helpful, knowledgable, and very nice. They also weren't super pushy which I've felt at a few other running stores. I actually didn't plan to buy new shoes even though I desparately needed them, but I ended up leaving with a new pair of kicks. They didn't have "my shoe" (the New Balance 880) in my size, but the guy (Regretfully, I didn't get his name.) brought me a Brooks Revennas and told me it was similar. I was a bit hesitant since my last pair of Brooks (Adrenalines) didn't work out for me so well, but the guy explained to me what made this shoe different from the Adrenalines and assured me the Revennas were more similar to my beloved New Balance. I tried them on and went from a quick jaunt up and down the sidewalk in front of the store, and was pretty quickly sold. Plus, I was assured I had 30 days to return the shoes if they didn't work out. I'm hoping to make it out for a couple of their Monday night group runs. Now that I have new shoes, I really have no excuse not to get out there! read more

Wonderful store wonderful staff! I bought my first pair of running shoes from this place a few years ago and those were the best shoes I've ever had! Mel was the one who helped me and I was impressed that he could tell what I needed just by looking at how I stood and walked. I've been to a few other stores that use all types of technology when fitting their customers and have never been as happy with the service and more importantly the shoes that I bought at those establishments. I recently returned to this store to help my dad find a better pair of running shoes and of course to buy myself a new pair as well! The lady that helped him was so kind and patient--my dad asked A LOT of questions. She never made us feel like she was in a hurry even though the store was packed with people. They really take their time with their customers to make sure that they walk or run ;) away with the best equipment possible! Even if you don't live in the area, this place is worth the drive! read more

Both of my brothers and I are runners. We have been coming to Running for Kicks since high school for new shoes! Even after moving to Chicago I make a trek out to the suburbs for new running shoes. Mel and his staff are the absolute best!! The staff are extremely knowledgeable about their shoes and other products and what shoe will work best with your feet. You are always able to test the shoes out on a treadmill or outside before purchasing, which is key for any runner. Associates never try to up sell you with additional products or pressure you into buying new shoes if nothing works out. Overall, extremely satisfied with Running for Kicks. I love the customer service which is the reason why I keep coming back! Two thumbs up in my book. read more

It was a bit haul for me to drive (or ride with a friend) to Palos, but not only did I get to share some quality time with a new friend, I found the last place I will EVER buy shoes again. RUNNING FOR KICKS is an amazing store. I walked in and was immediately greeted by Gail. She sat me down, took of my shoes, measured my feet, watched me walk, and fit me with the best pair of running shoes! We tried 4 or 5 pair out first, running up and down the sidewalk in front of the store. Gail was just awesome. The store was celebrating 15 years in business and had coffee, bagels, pizza for lunch. EVERY.SINGLE.EMPLOYEE I spoke with was helpful. I could spend hours in this tiny shop looking at everything. It's covered from top to bottom! They sell, laces, hats, shorts, compression socks and pants, arm sleeves, bumper stickers, sunglasses, GU, anti-chafing gel, orthotics, bracelets, etc. I will never go anywhere for shoes again! Thank you Mel, Happy 15th Anniversary and thanks Gail for my perfect new kicks! read more

First time customer - very happy with the service, advice and price. Pair of Saucony's for $120. Big difference over the department store fake Asics. Mike was very helpful!! Also bought 2 pairs of socks and received an extra 10% off- cool!! read more

Running For Kicks - Shoe Stores Near Me - Palos Heights, Illinois

Mel is seriously a running shoe genius!!!! I was having problems with my IT band and hamstring... In therapy and everything and he's like your wearing the wrong shoes..: your feet aren't made to be in that shoe and it's pushing your legs out too much... Changed my shoe and the pain is gone!!!! The workouts they have there are great too!!! They always are super inviting and helpful read more

Great store with great sweet staff that loves to help but expect to pay 25-40% more than the retail price. I bought Brooks 16 or 17 and paid $30 more than the retail price. read more

My wife and I were in Chicago last winter and stopped in Running for Kicks to pick up a new pair of shoes for her. I used come here in high school and it's the same person, Mel, who greets you. I assumed it would be slow since it was winter, but he was waiting on about 5 other people. Regardless, Mel still found the time to sit with my wife and make sure we got her into a shoe she liked. I think she tried on about 5 different pairs of shoes. We ended up buying Hoka's for her and she loves them. Thanks again, Mel, and keep up the great work. read more

I had a really enjoyable experience buying two pairs of shoes. I was promptly greeted at the door by a very knowledgeable and patient staff person who took her time measuring my feet, bringing me shoes, letting me run outside in them, until I found two pair that worked for me. She told me that I could bring them back if they didn't. They have a great selection of shoes - both full-priced and on sale. After 3 weeks, I know the shoes I bought were made for me! If you are serious about purchasing high-quality running and walking shoes as well as socks, shirts, etc., this is the place to go! read more

Great service and great people work there. I appreciate all the help they gave me every time I went in. I also recommend people to go there. What a great store and great selection.This is by far, one of my favorite stores to go to when it comes to running supplies and shoes. read more

Welcoming store appropriate for the novice to the seasoned runner alike. The employees are passionate about their work and generous with sharing running tips and advice. The owner Mel is inspiring and encouraging and has fostered a wonderful sense of community through the running groups that the store hosts during the week. The groups are free and open to anyone looking for motivation and support to start, continue, or improve running. In addition to the great running shoe selection they stock high quality workout clothes, socks, etc. appropriate for all athletes. As other reviewers have mentioned, it is definitely worth the trip out there if you are not from the area. Thank you, Mel! read more

I visited "Running for Kicks" this morning to return a pair of shoes I bought a little over two weeks ago. First of all, their no questions asked return policy is a beautiful thing! I was lucky enough to be waited on by the owner Mel. He really did a great job in fitting me with another pair of shoes. I can't believe the time he took to make sure I have the right shoe. Also, their selection of brands of shoe is very very extensive and really helps in finding the proper fit. It's been a long time since I've had such a good experience. Some reviews complain about the cost of Mel's shoes but they are comparable with shoes on the net for the new models he carries. My experience at Running for Kicks was well worth the cost! read more

This store sold me a pair of expensive shoes (Brooks ghost) two months ago. I noticed they were wearing out on the inside lace area and called them to report the problem today. I had to call the store over and over again before someone finally picked up (even though the store had been open for over an hour.) The man on the other end of the phone heard my complaint and said "Come on in and we will be glad to get you a new pair, Saucony or Asis etc!" He was very friendly. However, when I arrived in the afternoon the store management was almost accusatory saying "you destroyed these shoes, not us." They refused to acknowledge my earlier call that day and only offered a 15% discount on a new expensive pair. They were very, very, stubborn and unfriendly. I am not one to write negative reviews and as a retailer myself for over 30 years understand it is not an easy business to make money in. However, this store was"beyond the pale" in double-talk and making a customer (my friends and spouse also buy shoes there) feel like a liar and a "walking challenged" individual I was angry and embarrassed. I will NEVER go back and will encourage my connections not to as well. VERY DISAPPOINTED! read more

Meh...I just will never be keen on an "expert" picking my shoes and charging full retail. I was stunned when they said the customer doesn't pick the shoe, we do, now let me see you walk. read more

Always great and knowledgeable staff! I have always worn asics and decided to try a new brand. I brought them home and after 3 weeks of using them, my toes continued to go numb (past the point of breaking them in). Running for kicks let me exchange them and we're very understandable and easy to work with. read more

The shoes are not 6 months old. Wow! Yes they were worn, but should not be falling apart in the inside. Especially Brooks brand. Definately lost our family as a customers and anyone we know and talk to we will explain our experience. read more

Hidden Gem. Nice selection, attentive and educated staff, lifetime fitness members get a discount..... your shoes are fitted and analized, they'll tell you what shoes are best for your feet based on your walking pattern..I've sent several clients of mine here and they love the owner, staff, and their shoes! Will definitely keep coming back. read more