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Athletic Performance
Category: Shopping Fashion Sports Wear Shopping Sporting Goods Sports Wear Sports Wear [Edit]
1115 Lincoln AveSan Jose, CA 95125
(408) 297-0100
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 am - 7 pm
Sat 8 am - 6 pm
Sun 10 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot, Valet
- Dogs Allowed:
- Yes
70 reviews for Athletic Performance
Review Highlights
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"I finally found the greatest pair of running shoes ever." In 11 reviews -
"...MANY pairs of shoes (maybe 3-4 brands) out on the treadmill." In 23 reviews -
"Brad helped him try on shoes, had him run on the indoor..." In 10 reviews
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70 reviews in English
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Review from Edward O.
San Jose, CA
4/12/2012
I just recently bought my pair of Nike Free Runs 2 and they are amazing. I am here to not talk about the shoe, but more so on the place and the person that helped me with my shoe.
This little secret shoe shop here in san jose is the best place to get your shoe needs for so many reason. Well as you might see when you go there that it's part of a strip and you might think its hard to park because its literally on front of the street, but not fret they have back parking! Once you go to their store you will be blown on how much shoes they have there! The best part is that they greet you right away and help you with your choosing of shoes. I've always wanted a Nike Free since i needed a running shoes ASAP and Brand helpfully directed me to the Nike section. He is such a nice man that shows he loves what he is doing. I asked for the black/white nike free, but when he came back with my size he even brought out a black/black shoe. NOW that shows how much he cares about customer service. I appreciate so much on everything he helped me on. He even made sure the size is right for me by checking where my toes are when i wore the shoes, shows he is professional. Once I decided to purchase the shoes he gave us 20% off right away. I was surprised because he told us about the yelp honest review AND he even gave us 20% off coupons on our future purchases. He is such a generous person.
Overall this place is a 5/5 for such a friendly customer service, vast amount of choices of shoes, and the parking lot in the back is so convenient.
DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED! -
Review from Kim D.
4/11/2012
I went to look for a good running shoes store since mine were falling apart (literally) and I needed them ASAP since I'm doing a race soon (bad timing). Yelped away and came here.
Given it was rainy random day but the person there helped me right away and was able to get me a variety of wide widths since I have chubby fat feet. I tried on like 4-5 pairs and even tried them out on the treadmill and each time something didn't feel right he was right and ready to hand me another and give me a suggestion. It was great experience. Never had to feel pressure and got service right away it's like every girl's dream in a shoe store.
I got a pair of Sauconys at the end and am very satisfied. I even got a pair of free sock with them. Overall great experience and they have great variety of shoes for any runner along with some clothes etc. I'd recommend coming here if you're looking for some shoes for running or working out. Another bonus, you're supporting local business by buying from here. Always a good thing. -
Review from Michelle V.
San Jose, CA
4/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Officially labeled as the ONLY place I'll buy my running/workout shoes from now on!
Thank goodness for all the great reviews other Yelpers wrote for this place, otherwise I wouldn't have bookmarked it and actually came in to make my purchase.
This shop is conveniently located right on Lincoln in cute little Downtown Willow Glen. There's plenty of parking in the back of the buildings and of course there's street parking.
Right when I walked in there was a woman already helping out 2 other customers who were probably already there for a good 20 minutes or so testing out running shoes. Cuz they were running all around the shop and using the treadmill quite often while I was there checking out some new shoes.
The older gentleman, Brad was kind enough to help me pick out my new pair of training/cardio shoes. I tried on a pair of Asics that were just released and a couple pairs of Nike free runs, since I've heard such great things about em. It was between the Asics and the Nike Lunar Glides. I liked the look of the Asics, but the Nikes were seriously sooo comfy, it was like slipping my feet into a compact pillowy cloud. Brad was very very helpful in the fact that he made sure my toes fit not too loose but not too snug into each shoe and I love the fact that they pre-lace the shoes for you too.
Within 15 minutes of trying on those pairs of shoes and testing them out on the treadmill, I opted for some super sexy purple Nike Lunar Glides that were actually discounted AND another great bonus, I checked in with my Yelp app and got 20% the total. What a steal!
This was one of the quickest, most pleasant shoe purchases I've ever experienced. I'll be coming back here one I wear out my awesome new Nikes! -
Review from Kevin W.
San Jose, CA
5/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
They earn their stars. Went in, I'm a heavy guy (right now), told them what I basically wanted, what activity I was beginning, after measurement, a little more discussion, brought out one pair, they were perfect. You can tell they know their business. Honored Yelp coupon, great to talk to. I will never go anywhere else again.
I fell out of running over the last 12 years or so, and the weight gain has been terrible. There really is not much other exercise I like than running, and I remember what it was like 40 pounds ago. I am glad to have the shoes now to make the task at hand more comfortable. Thanks Yelp - thanks to Athletic Performace. This is the place people. -
Review from Kalem B.
San Jose, CA
4/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
I came in today to seek out a new pair of running shoes. As quickly as I walked in, I was immediately helped and given the proper guidance as to what new pair of shoes would best fit me. Ultimately, I went with the Nike Pegasus, as I tend to supinate when I run, and I couldn't be happier; I can't wait to run in them!
I received a 20% off discount when I checked myself in on Yelp and got a super great deal. All in all, it was a very fulfilling experience and I left completely happy and satisfied. I would highly recommend and I will be back for any of my other running gear needs. -
Review from Jason M.
San Jose, CA
4/29/2012
Super helpful and knowledgeable. Got me fit in a great distance road shoe. Prices are pretty fair- and fortunately for me, they were running a 20% off sale the day I was in there- so they were cheaper than online. Great stuff.
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Review from J.R l.
Japantown, CA
3/23/2012
Lisa is super knowledgeable, understanding and experienced. I recommend anyone to shop at Athletic Performance.
Lisa at AP not only is passionate about proper performance, she lives it.
Thanks Lisa. -
Review from Eric E.
San Jose, CA
1/8/2012
Wow.
Just Wow.
Great reminder that there are still places you can go for really great service & expertise. We were helped within a minute of being in the store. I explained the particulars of my feet & knees. Unlike my experience yesterday with Athlete's Foot where they immediately knew what I wanted - NOT(!), she followed up with a sequence of questions about my back, the nature of the pronation, details about my knees, what kind of exercise I wanted to do, etc.
Since she is herself both a runner and trainer, she knew what to ask and what to look for. As we tried on different shoes and then inserts, she took the time to watch me walk & run or their tredmill there. Seriously.
In short, I absolutely love my new workout/running shoes. They feel fantastic, look pretty cool, and are providing me tons of support.
This is a really great place. -
Review from Ellen L.
this is really cute, nice running shop in downtown willow glen. as a runner, i felt it was my duty to stop by and check it out, even though i wasn't shopping for anything in particular.
the interior was very nicely organized, i really liked the spinning postcard stand where they display flyers and postcards about upcoming running/walking related events.
they have a weekly run group that meets at the store, which is always nice to see...the tie in to the community.
the one staff member i saw in the store was busy helping other customers, but i appreciated that she dressed the part, in a running top and running skirt. i overheard parts of her conversation with another customer and she seemed very knowledgeable about the store's products, and was very comfortable conversing with him. it was like a "family" feel, which is always a great feeling whenever you enter a store.
price-wise, i would say everything is about average, what you'd expect to find at other running & athletic gear stores.
although i didn't purchase anything today, i would definitely feel comfortable returning to the store to browse or maybe ask questions. -
Review from JIM M.
San Jose, CA
1/31/2012
I decided that it was time that I started running so I decided to check yelp on which places I should visit to purchase a pair of running shoes. Man, I am SO glad I did!
Brad was extremely helpful and patient. He analyzed my old pair of shoes and made recommendations on what type of shoes I should be wearing. I tried on three pair of shoes and ultimately found a perfect pair.
Great place of business. Awesome service. Sam, their dog, will also keep you entertained every time a skateboarder passes by!
Visit this place. It doesn't get any better that this. -
Review from Jordan W.
San Jose, CA
3/28/2012
I have very flat feet and after I got my new orthotics, I asked my podiatrist for a store to get some new shoes. He recommended Athletic Performance in Willow Glen.
We went in on a Sunday afternoon and Lisa helped me through the whole process of selecting the right shoe. She asked all the right questions. We discovered that the shoes that I had been wearing were too small by a size. We went through 4 different shoes and I tried them all on the treadmill that they had there (a very nice touch that you normally don't get at most sporting goods stores) so I could get an idea of how they would feel while running and Lisa could check my running gait with each shoe. There was no pressure to hurry up and buy something.
I'm glad that I went in and I'm extremely happy with the service they provide. I would highly recommend checking out Athletic Performance in Willow Glen if you're in the market for new athletic shoes. -
Review from Sally C.
12/15/2011
I bought my first pair of expensive running shoes here. The people here are so wonderful and let me try on at least 6 pairs of shoes AND let me run on the treadmill with each pair on. The woman helping me was really honest about each pair of shoes- these don't fit my feet as well as they should, these are a size too big, etc...
She even gave me extra advice on tying my laces to support my ankle better.
I must have spent foreeeever in here, but they were so patient and I walked out the door with my new Brooks an hour later! -
Review from Hugh D.
Los Gatos, CA
3/28/2012
I got a great pair of shoes here! The employee I talked to was super helpful and knowledgeable, she was great! I had a great experience at AP and I will definitely be going back :)
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Review from Meg T.
9/28/2011
I've been wearing Ballega socks ever since Athletic Outpost in WC turned me on to them.
This Athletic Performance not only greeted me when I walked in the door, but they had a great selection of Ballega's, even carrying (the first time I've ever seen them) black low riders.
I love Ballega's because they're anti blister socks which can come with a cushion in the back to protect your Achilles heel from friction, ie blisters and chafing.
The store had some cute blue and pink low riders as well so I picked up a couple of those before heading to the counter. The service was tops, the woman friendly and upbeat, and even though I think I paid a couple dollars more for the socks than I'm used to, for me, it was worth it to find new and different colors.Listed in: A mile in her shoes
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Review from Eric H.
2/13/2012 2 Check-ins Here
WOW! AMAZING!
I came in here with some shin problems due to my training for Tough Mudder and let me tell you, Lisa was so helpful I felt like running right when I was finished there. She had me walk around so she could see how my feet fell as I moved in order to better suggest shoes to me. Then as we tried them on she has a treadmill in the store so that she can see how the shoes affect your run, wow! And then, to top it off as she was helping me she noticed I have a high ridge on the top of my foot and asked if I get pain there when running. It was like going to a psychic but for feet because I get horrible pain in that part of my feet. So she showed me a new way to tie my shoes. That's right, i will say it again, a new way to tie my shoes! I did not even know tieing your shoes could affect performance, crazy! Needless to say my feet, shins, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back all thank Lisa for her amazing help. If I could give her 10 stars I would.
!!A Yelpper plus here- you get 20% off for checking in with your smart phone!!!
All in all if you run, jog or just walk anywhere, at all, you have to come here, now! -
Review from Cherie S.
Sunnyvale, CA
10/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love patronizing a local store that has excellent customer service. Good selection, fair prices, knowledgeable employees, and a friendly staff--we're lucky to have this athletic shop in downtown Willow Glen.
Don't wreck your back and joints wearing your old worn-out running shoes. If you have more than 500-miles on your shoes (or they are more than 8-months old) get some new ones. I bought a new pair of trail running shoes and the staff was friendly, patient, and answered all of my questions.
Not only was I greeted by the helpful staff, Sam-the-dog gave me a few welcome licks. They also have a treadmill, so you can actually run in your running shoes before you buy them. See if you can take it to 11.
Bonus: if you check into Yelp on your phone you get 20% off! -
Review from Connie L.
San Jose, CA
11/12/2011
Long story short, one of my co-workers spilled someone's bodily fluids on my 10 year-old Nike's. I remembered reading great things about Athletic Performance, and popped in with my one year-old Dachshund mix.
Not only was the man who helped me welcoming, especially to my little buddy, but he also took the time to give me advice on the shoes I ended up not buying. (The Nike Free Run+ 2. Has no tongue and was too tight around the ankles for me.) They also have a treadmill for you to test your shoes out, and some nice Nike exercise clothes, which I obviously love. You can also get a free pair of socks right now, with each shoe purchase.
Overall, I'll probably go here now for gym clothes or anything related before going to Sports Authority. Yay for small business owners! -
Review from Joey L.
Oakland, CA
1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
Small business owners make my heart warm. Brad helped my girlfriend and I out in an extremely thorough fashion. The best part of coming here was that Brad explained things in a logical way. I could tell he was well-informed (...he says he'd been in the business for ~30 years). I'm flat-footed; so when I ran a half-marathon, my knees were killing me! Brad explained that there was too much torque in the shoes I was wearing, and my knee joint was going all out of whack each time I ran. So he helped me try on 6 different shoes (Asics, Nike, Brooks, etc.), each time with a thorough test, and even running on a treadmill. I walked out very confident that I got the best shoes that supported my flat-feet well. I wore my shoes all day at work, and my feet have never felt so comfortable!
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Review from Alys M.
San Jose, CA
10/21/2011
Excellent customer service! Brad was attentive, knowledgeable, warm and friendly, all the things you would hope to find, but so rarely do, in a retail establishment.
Athletic Performance gets all my future business. -
Review from Cheryl B.
8/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Every so often I meet someone who complains about their running shoes. I always try to steer them to a local store that specializes in running shoes because it really is the way to go.
This is one of those stores. I knew what I wanted, but I actually got a different model of shoe since my typical one wasn't in stock. With the Yelp check-in discount, I was sold even more.
Here's the thing, if you need good running or walking shoes, it pays to get this kind of service. They know about common foot ailments and they know which shoe to recommend. They watch your gait and they let you walk and run (on a treadmill) in those shoes. It's really worth it.
I think the place is dog friendly if you have a well mannered dog. I love that. -
Review from Gina J.
San Jose, CA
2/3/2012
I always come here when I'm on the hunt for my next pair of running shoes. The selection is great and the service is even greater! Anyone I've worked with has been extremely helpful and patient. It's a low pressure buying experience which is the type of approach I appreciate. Go get some new kicks and see ya on the trail!
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Review from Nicole B.
San Jose, CA
6/17/2011
Owner is very knowledgable and knows what he is doing.
His puppy dog is adorable and keeps you company as you get helped.
The owner threw in free running socks with my purchase!
I recommend it to anyone! -
Review from Jennifer T.
San Jose, CA
5/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Brad helped my sister picked out a perfect pair of running shoes for her. A very knowledgeable and patient man!
Check in on Yelp and you get 20% off. What a deal!
They have you run on a treadmill to asses your running style, gait, etc. It's just a treadmill, and there's no fancy playback system like other running stores I've seen. But hearing him talk so knowledgeably I was content with his shoe options he gave my sister.
They have a dog (Max?) that lays around the store chillin and saying hi to customers. Cute!
Great customer service. Will definitely come here when I reach the mileage on my current running shoe! -
Review from Chuck C.
San Jose, CA
7/23/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I needed to get a key holder for the Wharf to Wharf.
The worker got me what I wanted and was out the door in no time.
Definitely will go back for running stuff. -
Review from Terri L.
San Jose, CA
4/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Thank goodness I found this place on Yelp because they are definitely as good as it gets! The individualized attention and consultation for the perfect pair of running shoes made the experience exceptional for me.
She was extremely friendly/knowledgeable and began the fitting by measuring my feet. She noticed right away that I'm more than lacking an arch and knew exactly what kind of shoes to pull. I tried about three pairs on and took a little spin on the treadmill before I decided on the perfect one.
There was guy working also, the owner I'm assuming, and he was helping my boyfriend out (we're going through a running phase). He too had nothing but raves for him also.
I have no idea why I never got fitted for running shoes before, but I'm so glad I went here. I bought my Asics on Saturday and I seriously want to wear these shoes everywhere because they're so comfortable. -
Review from Raman S.
Berkeley, CA
1/6/2012
Pretty much what other people are saying about this place. Went here for my first expensive pair of nice running shoes.
The lady helping me was great, suggested many different shoe types etc. based on how I felt and ran in them. It took a long time but I was very thankful as I learned a lot. Will definitely go back again for my next pair of shoes, more running socks, or anything else to do with running! -
Review from Paul G.
San Jose, CA
5/19/2011 5 Check-ins Here
This place is AWESOME!!! These people know their stuff. They'll check out your feet have you try on pair after pair on the treadmill until you find the perfect ones for your running needs!
Before this place, I did research on the web on running shoes resulting in countless bloody blisters and discomfort! Now I got a pair of awesome shoes that hug my feet in all the right places! It's like running on soft fluffy clouds!!!
Talk to Lisa, she'll take care of you. She'll even offer up some useful running tips, like how to lace up your new kicks, proper form and stretching techniques.
I've recommended this place to everyone I've come across and all have been satisfied. You will too!!! So don't delay, throw out those crappy running shoes and head over here! Your feet and knees are going to thank you!!! :D -
Review from Tina V.
Santa Clara, CA
7/10/2011
Thank you Yelp Reviewers! I finally found the greatest pair of running shoes ever! :) I started running last year to tone up for my wedding and have continued to run even post wedding and was in dire need of a new pair of running shoes. Brad did not disappoint! He was attentive, listened to what I wanted in a new pair of shoes ( I have wider feet and if I ran long distance is my old shoes, the sides of my feet would hurt.) Brad brought out 8 different pairs and had me try them all on for fit and comfort. I settled on the Asics GT-2160 and could not be happier with my choice. Trust me, I bought them less than an hour ago and have already taken them out for spin.
Overall, you cannot go wrong with the level of professionalism these folks provide. I will be back! I can't complain about the price either; roughly 100 for a new pair of high-end running shoes and two pairs of socks. Plus a cute doggie to play with while you shop. :D Score! -
Review from Nathan H.
San Jose, CA
4/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Facts you should know:
1. I checked the prices on 2 or 3 pairs of shoes we were considering buying to compare to online prices. They were charging the same as online stores.
2. They had a discount coupon that was on their Yelp page. It was 20% off your whole purchase. I used my phone (yelp app) to show them and use the coupon.
3. The staff (2 people) were very helpful and attentive. The lady in particular was doing a good job of helping my girlfriend find the right pair of running shoes.
4. One tick against is that they didn't have that nifty machine where you stand on the platform and it checks how flat/arched your foot is. But I imagine that machine costs thousands so I can't fault them so much. But they did have a treadmill.
I bought a pair of Asics (GT line). I would definitely go here again. Five stars. -
Review from Jessica B.
Redwood City, CA
3/19/2011
BEST place in the south bay for running shoes. Brad (the owner) spent a great deal of time with me explaining the different kinds of shoes and which might be best for me. He even put me on the treadmill so he could watch my stride and how my foot strikes the ground just to be sure that I was picking the right shoe. I am very appreciative of his time and the store and SO excited to start running again! I highly recommend this store for all levels of runners as they have a shoe for every foot.
(He has a great discount offer too!!) -
Review from Jen M.
Campbell, CA
9/6/2010
This is a fantastic store, with great people who work there.
I went to this store off of recommendation from a friend. Yes they have a smaller selection, but that is because they only carry the best shoes. I found their prices to be comperable to larger stores and was given a free pair of running socks to go with my new shoes.
What I really liked was the sales staff's knowledge. I was looking for a pair of running shoes for distance running. Not only did they give me recommendations in different price classes, they had me run on a treadmill as well as up and down Lincoln to make sure the shoes were the right ones for me. I ended up with a fantastic pair of shoes.
I will definitely be returning when I need a new pair! -
Review from Colin C.
San Jose, CA
7/21/2011
Excellent customer service. When i first walked in the store i was pleasantly greeted, and immediately served. I felt that they knew exactly what i was looking for, and was offered the best advice when making my purchase. The best part was that the store stayed open an hour late just for me !! Wow that is not something that You see every day, i appreciated everything that Lisa had to say, and was even inspired to go for a jog in my new shoes that same evening. :) I would definitley recommend the staff for their expertise, and i will be returning to this shop. I couldn't be more satisfied.
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Review from Doug W.
San Jose, CA
3/18/2011
I cannot say enough great things about my experience. Incredible Customer Service.
I've been running for years but never got properly fit for shoes. I would buy off the shelf for looks and in store comfort, Never Again! I explained my shin soreness on runs over 5 miles and she had me test shoes, run up and down the street and watched me run to evaluate my style, turns out my ankles fall in from high arches and not enough support.
She fit me in Asics with plenty of stability and Super Feet = NO PAIN and longer runs! Thank you Athletic Performance! -
Review from Becky F.
Redding, CA
2/19/2012
Best athletic apparel store around. Been a customer for over 20 years and am always 100% satisfied. Always knowledgable, friendly staff, great prices.
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Review from Mary O.
San Jose, CA
11/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great selection of running gear and shoes. Frank was helpful talking through my running needs with me and directing me to gear that fits my needs. He also gave me great trail suggestions! I will definitely come back here.
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Review from Liz P.
CA
3/29/2010
In a brief bout of insanity, I bought myself the Groupon for the AlaVie Fitness boot camp classes. Jump to the day before I'm scheduled to start and I realize that I need new running shoes. I find myself in San Jose, and Yelp directs me to Athletic Performance.
I could not have been happier. The helpful woman working (wish I could remember her name!) was also a personal trainer. She started by having me take off my shoes and walk barefoot for her, confirming that I pronate when I walk. She grabs a pair of shoes off of the shelf for me and has me jump on the treadmill. These shoes feel AWESOME and I'm ready to buy them right away but she stops me and insists I try on at least two other pairs. Both of which are cheaper than the pair I just tried on. I try each on the treadmill, carefully evaluating them while she watches me run. She and I agree that the first pair does the best job of giving me the support I need and, after what probably took me about half an hour of her time, I get some amazing shoes that I've loved ever since.
The customer service was top-notch, something you really don't see much of these days. Plus, their selection of shoes is awesome and they have some accessories that can be super helpful. I'm a fan! -
Review from Danielle S.
Santa Clara, CA
2/15/2009
I belong to a Jeff Galloway Running Group and Brad (who owns the place along with his wife) is nice enough to let us come here early on Saturdays to use the place to warm up before our runs. Both he and his wife are cheerful and helpful, they always ask everyone how their runs went and care about the answer. The selection of goods is nice, so far I've bought running pants and a water belt.
My running buddy, Felix, bought a pair of shoes there. Brad helped him try on shoes, had him run on the indoor treadmill and decide which pair to get. This is a great store highly recommended to any runners. -
Review from Anya R.
2/24/2010
Okay so I'm trying to really motivate myself to be more active this year so I've done a 5k, signed up for another 5k and 10k and want to work my way up to a half marathon this year.
I was looking online and found out about the Nike Plus program and sport band. The sport band tracks down your time, miles, pace, calories burned, and also is a watch! So I went into this store to check it out.
This is a low key place in Willow Glen and parking is tough but I got lucky and found street parking. The one man Fred was working there and no one else was in the store. Its a small store.
He was really helpful and if he couldn't answer my question he called a colleague from another store to ask!
I got the Nike sport band and wanted to get the Nike plus shoes so they can work together well. (I'm a gimmick for their marketing)
Their was only one color of the Nike Sport band but it was red and black and I'm okay with that. Their were 4 shoes that are Nike Plus. A couple pairs that were 125 and a few that were 100 which I think are pricey but that's just because I've never spent tons of money on stuff like this.
I like the customer service that Fred provided where he had me run on a treadmill to make sure the arch looked right and the shoes fit well. I had to actually jump up half size.
I ended up getting both and they gave me a free pair of running socks that were 8.50!
Its a small store so the selection is slim but if it has what you're looking- Fred was really nice so its worth a shot for you to go there. -
Review from Michael P.
San Jose, CA
4/28/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Place has tons of running gear they have a treadmill in store to check out shoes that they have and the service is good shoes are little over priced but being able to check them out on the treadmill is nice!!!!
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Review from E S.
Worcester, MA
1/12/2012
Excellent staff, very friendly and recommended some products based on my interests. Good sale on clearance items when I was in the area.
