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San Diego Running Institute
Categories: Shopping Fashion Shoe Stores Shopping Sporting Goods Shoe Stores, Sporting Goods [Edit]
4760 Mission Gorge PlSte B
(at Alvarado Canyon Rd)
San Diego, CA 92120
(619) 265-7374
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11 am - 7 pm
Fri 11 am - 6 pm
Sat 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
89 reviews for San Diego Running Institute
Review Highlights
"they've also got everything you need to be a runner."
(in 31 reviews)
"I know where I am getting my next pair of shoes from."
(in 41 reviews)
"Emily gave my wife and me great personalized attention."
(in 4 reviews)
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89 reviews in English
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Review from Sam P.
San Diego, CA
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
The other five star reviews are accurate about this place. My own experience was as follows:
I walked in, was greeted and given a brief intro on feet measurements
My feet were measured, told why my previous running shoes with stabilizers caused pain on the lateral side of my right foot (because I was supposed to wear neutrals... stabilizers are for people who pronate their feet so they cause the foot to supinate which added pressure on that lateral side).
Four shoes were brought out and they brought out one more brand (Inov8) after I requested it.
Allowed to run in each pair, chose the top 3 and ran with each brand alternating on different feet to narrow it down to my #1 choice.
Bought a pair of Brooks which felt the best
***They didn't discuss prices, which is exactly what I wanted in the first place since I did not want to be swayed into buying a cheaper pair. My priority was buying the best pair for my feet, which is what ended up happening.
I won't even bother to check what the retail on my Brooks was but I paid about $100 and was satisfied as it was within my budget and they felt absolutely heavenly on my feet. Even if it is above retail price, it was worth the expert service I was provided.
Les at the store said it best when he mentioned that all the brands that they carried are good but they fit differently to people.
A+ service, no hassle, warm and friendly environment. I finally have my perfect running shoes -
Review from Amy C.
San Diego, CA
1/5/2012
I am starting training for my second half marathon, and needed better shoes than what I trained in for my last one. I had bought some trailrunners at a Sports Authority that constantly gave me blisters, it was awful. This time around, I decided I needed to commit to a more appropriate distance shoe.
I heard about SDRI from Yelp, and was very interested in having my feet examined. They did not disappoint! I was in and out in half an hour, and was told my feet had a medium arch and straight achilles, whereas I had been told they were flat and pronated by another running store a few years ago! Emily was very helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable (as well as the other staff working at the time), and I am loving my new shoes so far!
I am so glad I found this place, and am DEFINITELY buying all running supplies here from now on :) -
Review from amanda b.
San Diego, CA
10/20/2011
This place is great!
I'm not an avid runner, just do it recreationally. I've purchased a lot of items from here (shoes, socks, apparel) and it's all great!
The service is outstanding and they will never try and sell something to you that you don't need like other large running stores out there. They are honest and straight-forward. Love this place! -
Review from James T.
San Marcos, CA
2/7/2012
The employees are very helpful and friendly. I will be a customer for life after just one visit. You would be surprised at how much goes into finding the perfect shoe and they provide that for you.
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Review from Jessica N.
San Diego, CA
8/25/2011
As a physical therapist and coach working with athletes ranging from weekend warriors to pros (and everything in between) and being a competitve athlete myself, it was important to me to find a great running shoe store.
I have been to large running shoe warehouse style stores in San Diego, who claim to perform analysis by throwing you on a treadmill with a video camera, but how well trained are the staff when they sell everyone orthotics (even when the majority do not need them if put into the proper running shoe). I was dissatisfied and looked for something better. When I discovered SDRI, I was hooked.
I have been buying my shoes there for years now. I have sent at least 50 of my patients there for shoes. I continue to recommend them to patients, teammates, coworkers, and friends.
Paul is very knowledgeable and helpful. He also generously donated items for a fundraiser at my work recently done for the American Heart Association. He's always helped clarify what products are best for me and kept me up to date on what might be useful for my patients and clients. Emily has also made a good impression. She offered to special order a pair of sneakers because the color I wanted wasn't in stock for my size.
I highly recommend this place. -
Review from Caroline P.
San Diego, CA
8/20/2011
Moved here a while ago an needed to find a new running store. My fellow yelpers pointed me in the right direction.
I am currently recovering from a series of foot injuries and needed to find a pair of shoes that didn't kill my feet.
I got the whole foot work-up thing and found out my previous running store had put me in stability shoes when I should have been in neutrals. BEH! Perhaps this is why my ankles are prone to sprains now.
Good news, got a great pair of shoes that make a HUGE difference in my pain level and endurance for long walks.
I tried on a lot of shoes, and am really grateful that they were so patient with me. We found the best fit and I'm finally able to walk without pain.
I hope to be up and running soon. They were able to give me contact info for local running groups, which was great, too! -
Review from Trang L.
8/17/2011
This place is awesome because they have actual runners as employees. It's also super cool to see all the bibs and medals done by the employees and owner of this establishment. Everyone is so friendly and knowledgeable; it's great! Although this place is very small, I don't mind- they have all the necessary equipment for runners.
The most important information about this place is that it's owned by the Physical Therapist/Chiropractor next door who is a very experienced runner. 10 stars! :P -
Review from Stephanie H.
San Diego, CA
7/15/2011
These reviews are right! After having taken up running this past year, this place has been such a good resource. My husband and I went in there with the intention of finding some running shoes and this place offered and exceeded our expectations by many. For $30 (which was later applied to our shoe purchase), we received a full in-depth analysis of our feet. After determining the dimensions and characteristics of our feet, they pulled out lots of shoes corresponding to our particular dimensions.
This place carries professional brands and gear as well. We were really happy with our analysis and our purchase. SDRI provides a ton of insight that you cannot get from a Nike or Puma store in the mall.
Definitely recommended for those who want to maximize the utility of their purchases and ensure they purchase the BEST running shoe for you. -
Review from Michael H.
San Diego, CA
9/7/2011
Excellent experience, at a fair price.
Katie (I hope I remembered her name correctly) was extremely helpful. She talked to me about my running needs, had me fill out a form and answer some questions, and took a bunch of measurements of my feet. They are apparently slightly on the flat side (something I was pretty sure of already), and they roll somewhat less than average (something I did not know).
She brought out four pairs of shoes, and had me try out each pair, running on the treadmill that they have in the store. She stood behind me for the first test, and watched my stride so she could tell me about it. Apparently my stride is fairly neutral.
After I tried out each pair, she had me run in odd pairs, so I could test the shoes head-to-head (or foot-to-foot, I guess). By the end, I was a bit sweaty, but I also knew which pair of shoes felt best on my feet. I ended up going with a pair of Saucony Triumph 8s.
The whole process took well over half an hour, but was free with the purchase of the shoes, and was definitely worth the time. I had a look online when I got home, and I could have purchased the same shoes for about $12 cheaper at Amazon, but I was happy to pay a bit more for the excellent service, and to support a local business. I was also impressed that Katie never pushed the most expensive brand; she just told me to choose based on what felt best for my feet.
I'll definitely go back. -
Review from Tiffany V.
San Diego, CA
5/26/2011
I love everyone at SDRI. I've had nothing but amazing experiences here.
I had been running on and off for a few months and was experiencing some pain. My brother informed me that I was probably wearing the wrong type of shoe. So I went to SDRI to get fitted for proper shoes. I tried on 4 or 5 different pairs (all at different price points) and found an awesome pair that I LOVE. They let you try them out on a treadmill or you can even take them for a spin outside. That was really helpful.
I was new to running (and in some ways AM still new at running) and had a lot of questions. The staff here is so knowledgeable and friendly. They were able to answer all my questions and offered a lot of solid advice. They're all runners themselves, so it was great to hear them talk about their experiences.
I usually stock up on my gels/beans here as they have a good selection. Sign up for the email list and you'll be notified when they run promotions (like 20% off certain items). It's a really dangerous place for me to go when things are on sale. I usually end up with tons of gels and running gear I didn't even know I needed!
This is a great place. I love the personalized attention and appreciate they never to rush me when they're busy or up sell me to something I don't want/need/can't afford. And they remember you when you come back in, makes you feel like you're dealing with friends instead of sales people.
One of their employees brings their adorable pup in to work and I gave them a bonus point for that. I love dog friendly businesses. -
Review from Ronald S.
San Diego, CA
7/22/2011
Buying shoes should always be this easy.
I've been running for a few months and I am training for a half marathon. The shoes I've been running in were giving me blisters and a black toenail so I knew I needed to get a quality pair of running shoes.
As soon as I walked in I was offered assistance. I had done my homework so I knew what to expect in regards to filling out the form. I knew I was going to be purchasing a pair of shoes so I wasn't worried about the prospect of having to pay for the analysis. Filling out the form was easy.
As soon as the form was done, Heather did some measurements on my foot and explained what she was looking for in order to recommend the right type of shoe. She also showed me how to effectively tie my shoe laces so my foot wouldn't slide forward as much when running (which was causing the black toenails).
Heather presented me with four pairs of shoes to try on. As I tried each on one, she allowed me to run around a bit outside to get the feel of them. I liked three of the four pairs she had picked out, so we compared them by trying one shoe on each foot and directly comparing them, again running around outside. The shoes I decided on were very comfortable.
After that I picked out some accessories -- socks, a water bottle, a belt to carry my phone and keys, etc. I am normally pretty frugal when it comes to shopping but I didn't want to skimp when it comes to running. The service and finding the right shoe was more than worth trying to save a few dollars off of retail.
Overall I was very pleased with the experience and would highly recommend SDRI to others. :) -
Review from Jeff Q.
Ann Arbor, MI
5/25/2011
To me, buying new running shoes is one of the best feelings in the world. It's the grown-up version of opening presents on Xmas morning.
That being said, it's important that my shoe-buying experiences are good ones. Fortunately enough, this one did not disappoint.
Emily gave my wife and me great personalized attention... figuring out if our feet overpronated while we ran, checking the flexibility of our arches, and looking at our gait on the treadmill.
The best part? Test-driving the shoes. My wife and I were pretty much given free reign to run a couple couple blocks outside the store to check each brand's fit.
In the end, I got a sweet pair of Brooks Ravenna 2's. Can't wait to put some significant mileage on them.
While I pretty much paid full retail for the shoes ($100), it was definitely worth it to make sure I got the best shoes for my feet. And it was clear to me that the staff wanted to make sure I got the right shoe versus simply closing the sale.
It also didn't hurt that Rio the store dog played tug-of-war with us while we hung out.
Will definitely come back for my next running shoe purchase. -
Review from Margaret D.
San Diego, CA
2/28/2011
I am the dang Cinderella of running shoes. I went all over SD looking for the elusive perfect fit. Some shoes from Sears gave me blood blisters (ouch!) so I decided it was better to pay $150 for a pair of good running shoes, rather than 4 pairs of bad shoes at $50 each.
The store charges $25 for a foot analysis. If you buy the shoes, it's free. If you don't buy the shoes, it is a credit for future shoes.
I learned that my orthotics may be unnecessary, since my pronation has caused me no problems; and that my arch is fairly inflexible. A chiropractor is involved with the store and I believe helps train the staff.
The store is small and the staff friendly. They also have a cute rescue dog who came over and licked my hand, then went back to its bed.
They also have a pretty extensive selection for a small store. For example, they had underwire running bras in extended sizes (i.e. DD and E cups) that are difficult to come by.
I had to order the shoes I needed, because they didn't have them in stock, but the saleslady was committed to me getting an excellent fit. -
Review from Ryan C.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 7/19/2011
I appreciate your respone and concern to my first review. I have in fact been a little frustrated trying to find shoes, as I have always had difficultly with shoes (which is why I wanted to go to a speciality store). I have come to realize that I have flatter feet, therefore need a flatter shoe with minimal arch. I do still believe, admittedly as a first time runner, the exam proves very little. The result of my exam, at least, did not to conform with my personal situation and personal needs. nor to the shoes I was shown.
I have heard excellent things about your store and that is exactly why I went in there in the first place and I would not be suprised if most customers are satisfied.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/18/2011
I am new to running and was looking for a good pair of shoes to start out with. The people were nice… Read more »
Comment from Paul J. of San Diego Running Institute 7/19/2011
Ryan because you are new to running you need to understand… More » -
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Review from Mike D.
San Diego, CA
5/11/2011
Wow. The reviews are right. This store is great!
Dean Silvestre spent about an hour with me, measuring my feet and me trying on about 4or 5 pairs of shoes. About $108 for some Brooks GTS.
(You know, I really don't care about the price that much. So it's $20 here or there, who gives a rats ass. It affects my feet, legs, body, my ability to work out, etc., etc. Why skimp on a tool that so important!?)
Admittedly it was the middle of the afternoon on a weekday, and they were not busy, but I did not feel rushed at all. I think these people really know what they are doing and are very pleasant to deal with. And I'm quite picky about stores, products and customer service.
The shoes are working out great. Very comfortable.
What a difference from Road Runner Sports, which sucks massive rhino you-know-what! See my one-star review here on Yelp. -
Review from Marian L.
San Diego, CA
4/26/2011
Being a new runner I needed some help getting into new shoes that were the right size and fit. Turns out I was wearing shoes a size and a half too small! Might explain some of that numbness I was starting to feel during long runs :/
Paul was a great help and answered all my questions. We had a nice chat about running in general and I enjoyed my experience. Great, friendly staff. I'll definitely come back in the future.
True, I could have gotten the shoes cheaper online, even directly from the retailer, but as a new runner without a lot of experience and knowledge, the personalized help was invaluable. Plus I found out about some great 5k races coming up this summer that I'm excited about. -
Review from Eric G.
San Diego, CA
9/7/2011
This place is awesome. Everyone in this store was incredible. Educated and friendly, but not pushy. For places like this, Yelp needs to implement a 6th star rating.
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Review from Paul D.
San Diego, CA
5/1/2011
I finally made a decision to stop wasting my money on the wrong shoes, time and time again. Heather, at SDRI, was just perfect in her analysis and interview with me. I knew the results of the test would prove all my previous ASISC purchases to be wrong. For all you nay sayers out there, trust me, there are better shoes than ASICS!! I did purchase two pairs of shoes, thanks to the logic provided by Heather. It makes perfect sense to rotate shoes, especially when gauging the type of distance running each is used for. Now I have a pair of 1-5 mile shoes, and 10+ shoes. It's a night and day sensation people. Do yourself a favor and please go to SDRI for the most comprehensive running shoe experience.
I docked one star on the rating, due to the price differential of a pair of shoes I bought, compared to Sports Authority, and I've seen other posts regarding better prices elsewhere. I will refrain from naming the brand or make, because I like to think the price difference went toward the experience and treatment I received. The entire experience and products provided at SDRI are worth every penny!! -
Review from Taylor G.
Arlington, VA
7/10/2010
I did the foot evaluation and it was great. I also tried on 4 different pairs of shoes and I liked them all, but loved one of the Asics. I have had mostly Asics running shoes, but my last pair wore out quickly. I also had been having calf pain.
With the new Asics my calf pain is basically gone! It's a great shoe, so light and comfortable to run in. The girl who helped me definitely did a good job picking out shoes for me. Very friendly too!
I don't live here so it sucks I won't be able to buy my shoes here regularly! -
Review from eLaine f.
San Diego, CA
6/21/2011
received great service on 05/23/11 - but my body definitely is still satisfied & thankful for the pair of shoes i purchased.
I really just wanted to check out the place & see what they had to offer, so I can . at first a little intimidating when i walked in because no one else was in the store. but was greeted by Paul who gave the forms to fill out & Heather ended up assisting me.
I believe timing is everything, I had one-on-one service from Heather and didn't feel embarrassed considering I was wearing a skirt since I was coming from work. But she remained professional and sincere and the same time. Maybe I'm a sucker for good customer service, but I hope to think that I can feel positive vibes from a sincere individual. Heather gave me more info than what I came for which was shoes, but some advice for a beginner runner, getting kudos for even starting to run, some more info on biking, and above all life lessons about goals & perseverance. Was there for almost an hour and half.
Luckily for me, the most comfy shoes were the lowest priced ones. Picked up a pair of running socks, electrolytes, salt supplements.
Definitely wish I had more time to browse around but had to get somewhere - will definitely be back to use up my membership - 15% off of items in the store - almost 2/3rds of getting my money back for the membership. -
Review from Wilmer G.
San Diego, CA
4/14/2010
I took my wife to SDRI because she is planning to start a running program for the very first time, and wanted to get the foot analysis done for her to get her started on the right "foot" *rimshot*
The foot analysis is $25, which is waived if you buy a pair of shoes from them. It's not meant to be a surprise, as it is listed on the top of the form you fill out before the exam. They did a couple of tests, including arch flexibility, pronation tendency, an a couple others. After all the tests were complete, the result was that her feet were...average. Good to know, I guess, but for some reason I feel like we would have gotten more value for our money if her feet were more extraordinary.
They pulled out three pairs of shoes for "average" feet and let her try on each. They even let her wear them outside and run around in them to see how they felt, which was great. Most places would never let you out the door and defile their shoes before commiting to buy.
Overall the customer service was outstanding. They were very attentive and patient, allowing my wife to try on and test each pair as often as she liked. They even humored my rugrat as he ran through their little store like he owned the place.
In the end, she picked out a pair of shoes that felt comfortable, but she didn't like the color. No problem; they ordered the color she liked out of the catalog at no extra charge, with only the caveat that it would take 5-7 days for store pickup, longer if we wanted them delivered to our house.
A few cons:
1. They only have like five or six brands of shoes in the store, and none of them is New Balance, my personal favorite.
2. Expect to pay full retail prices, unless you enroll in their membership.
3. The store and staff are pretty small, so if there are more than three or four other customers, expect to wait a little.
If you're an experienced runner and already know your foot type, then you'd probably be better going somewhere else and not paying the retail prices here. If you are a beginner or feel like you might benefit from their analysis, this place is for you. -
Review from Sarah R.
San Diego, CA
11/29/2010
My husband and I went there today to get fitted and purchase a new pair of running shoes. I had been running in a pair of shoes that I bought in college (4 years ago) only because they were my college colors. Wow, what a difference a pair of shoes make! I have a few injuries from running and being a dancer for 20 years that get little too much to handle during a good run. These shoes have cured it!
This place is a must go to. Great service, cool and interesting facts about your feet and a gret a selection. Plus, wonderful prices! -
Review from Bakudai A.
San Diego, CA
6/4/2011
Wife review: SDRI's employees were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. they knew exactly what they were doing. they didn't rush us. they gave us a lot of options shoe wise. I didn't feel pushed into any purchases. The dog was cute. Had some honey gummy things that were awesome
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Review from Shayne C.
Updated - 2/17/2010 1 photo
~Part 2~
New upcoming half marathon means it's time for a new pair of *magic* shoes !
Lucky for me, I had the same professional help and advice from Carmela. I appreciated her personal advice from what type of water bottle to use, how to avoid blisters, and numerous training tips.
A lot of information was exchanged and I walked out of there with a brand new pair of *magic* shoes (i.e., Saucony Progrid Ride) in silver, pink, and purple! Niiiice !!!!
Carmela had encouraging words and I was really glad that she took the time to make my visit worthwhile. Bless you SDRI for making me one happy customer yet again! =pListed in: LET'S GET PHYSICAL PHYSICAL…, RAWROTD BABY !!!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/22/2009 ROTD 9/23/2009
I'm training for my very first half marathon (wish me luck!) and I needed some expert advice on… Read more »
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Review from Lisa T.
1/7/2010
After 2 ankle injuries in 2009, I was determined to find better shoes and start running again after a 3 month break. I told myself that January 2010 was when I would start again and I was actually really excited because I had missed it so much.
After writing down the address, I was off. Unfortunately I just wrote down "Mission Gorge" figuring it would be on "Mission Gorge Road". When I couldn't find the shop, the guy I called was kind enough to point out that it was on "Mission Gorge Place". Don't you just hate when that happens? :P
I get to the store and proceed to fill out the questionaire since I was new to SDRI. I met Jay who asked me a few questions and ran some tests to see what my balance and weight distribution was like. Good news! I'm pretty balanced and nothing major to worry about! Whew!
Jay then brings out 3 pairs of shoes - Brooks, Asics, and Mizunos. I try on the Brooks pair and he told me that I could either jump on the treadmill or run around outside. Since I'm an outdoor runner, I decide to do a lap around the parking lot. So far, so good. Next were the Asics which felt lighter. The last pair were the Mizunos. I noticed that there was more foam on the heel and Jay said this was so I wouldn't feel the "road" as much. I did a lap around the lot, and then a second one. These babies were like magic! They were perfectly snug and I could definitely feel the difference with the extra cushioned heel.
I went back into the shop and was already sold, but Jay told me to eliminate a pair (the Brooks) and told me to try an Asics shoe on one foot and a Mizuno shoe on the other. The Asics were a bit loose but the Mizunos were perfectly comfortable. I even noticed the extra bounce I had with every stride I took!
SDRI is the perfect shop for any type of runner. The staff is knowledgeable and not pushy at all. You can take your time with questions/concerns and actually be able to take the shoes for a quick test run. Another good thing is that the owner is available for injury consultations.
I can't wait to put some miles on my new Mizunos and hope that 2010 won't bring any more injuries! -
Review from Darren S.
1/7/2010 2 photos
I ran out of Body Glide and GU gel so I decided to check out another running store. The store is located in a warehouse complex but isn't very big. The size of the business obviously doesn't lend to a bunch of product displays and variety but that's not where they shine anyhow.
It seems like everybody here knows their craft well and are really helpful. Unfortunately I'm not currently in the market so I couldn't take advantage of their gait analysis and shoe suggestions. Instead I took a quick look at the 'lean and mean' inventory.
While picking out my flavors of gel I saw another skin lubricant product that I'm not familiar with - Tri Slide. After inquiring, my CSR discussed the virtues of Tri Slide versus Body Glide. My favorite of these is the fact that Tri Slide is an aerosol spray. "Sharing is Caring" when it comes to most personal lubricants but the running kind isn't one of them. There's been more than one time that my Body Glide has been doled out for others to use but no more. No more strange looking debris on my running lube stick. I'll try out this new product and hopefully my nipples and crotchal area will be grateful for the change.
The only downside is that SDRI is so far away from me. I do see myself going back in for some new gear and consulting them for the gait analysis soon.Listed in: I'm sorry that I don't have…
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Review from Patrick Z.
San Diego, CA
1/3/2010
I found out about the SDRI from one of my buddies that had been there before. I was training for the Rock and Roll Marathon this past year. About six weeks before the race, my knees started hurting. Bad. It hurt to walk. I was icing my knees 3 times a day. I went to see Dr. Runco and am SO glad I did. He looked at my shoes, my feet, my walking style and my running style. The diagnosis was bad running shoes.
"But I got these from Roadrunner and they assured, nay, GUARANTEED, me that they were the right shoes for me." I explained.
"This is the exact OPPOSITE type of shoe for your foot type. These shoes are what's causing your knee issues." Dr. Runco told me.
Six weeks before the RnR Marathon, I had a hard time walking. I thought my chances of being able to run it were slim. However, with new shoes from the Dr, stretching rehab and physical therapy twice a week for the remaining six weeks, I was able to run the RnR.
That's right. In six weeks the SDRI took me from 'it hurts to walk' to running 26.2 miles in 3:58:03. Not only did I run my Marathon, I kicked ass at it.
I don't know what else needs to be said. Go buy shoes from them. If you're injured, see the Dr. Talk to them. Learn from them. They're truly experts.Listed in: Workouts/Gyms
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Review from Holly Ann J.
San Diego, CA
5/20/2009
"I love to run. I love to run. I love to run." Well ... umm ... anyone who knows me will tell you that is a blatant lie! If I keep sayin' it, though, maybe I'll start believin' it!
The San Diego Running Institute is a great place to go for knowledgable staff and great merchandise. You will get very personalized attention in your shoe fitting by experienced runners/ triathletes. The selection of running shoes and gadgets are plentiful. As a TriDiva, I loved the colorful running outfits and supportive running bras (for those well endowed, like me). Don't you worry, fella's, there is plenty of masculine stuff for you!
I found this Mission Gorge treasure through a women's triathlon support group called GOTRIbal. We had our after-hours meeting there to gain knowledge and motivation (oh, and socialize, drink wine, and have hors' d'euvres). Victor, the owner and chiropractor, gave a wonderful presentation on nutrition and proper rest importance while training. Very scientific and insightful. He was also very dynamic ... I'd go back just to talk more with Victor!
I hope you drive up the 15, take the Mission Gorge exit, 'til you find SDRI. It's a very customer-oriented place where you'll find everything you need AND MORE!Listed in: TRI-Diva
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Review from Christopher H.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 4/12/2011
Having visited this store a couple more times for myself to get gear and new shoes, I had to come back and update my review. I've never had a bad experience, and always found the staff to be extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Yes, you're going to pay a little more than you might online or at one of the megastores. But I'm willing to pay a little extra to support a great local business.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/1/2010
I'm old, I'm fat and I'm out of shape. While there's not much I can do about the first item on that… Read more »
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Review from Deb R.
San Diego, CA
8/24/2007
Best running store in SD! Forget about Roadrunner...their staff doesnt know anything about running shoes!
This store is owned by a chiropractor who is very experienced with endurance sports. He treats triathletes, marathoners...you name it!
The staff all know what they are talking about, and are super helpful. Good selection of quality running shoes, if you are looking for cheap walking shoes this is not the store for you.
happy running! -
Review from Dana S.
Updated - 3/1/2009
So i have to update my review - like i said before I ordered my shoes here on a saturday. I was told that hopefully someone will get the order in on monday am so that my shoes would arrive by Friday. On friday i called and no shoes had arrived. Monday I call and again, no shoes. I was pretty upset that they failed to deliver my product as promised. I understand that things can happen, however, I was offered no apology. In a time where businesses really need to maintain their customer base, I expected better. At least an apology.
Having finally received my shoes I now notice that yes, contrary to what I was told, they are available in other colors. I've also found that I can purchase these shoes online for $50 less! Perhaps i'll give them another shot, maybe not.
After all the hype I heard about this store I was truly excited to patronize the establishment and the service I received fell short of my expectations.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/16/2009
I have to say that i never really thought one had to get "fitted" for running shoes. Alas, as I… Read more »
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Review from tina n.
San Diego, CA
4/18/2011
i use to go to road runner sports...i bought a pair of "custom" inserts for my shoes there for $80....they helped just a little but i was definitely feeling the pain after 5 miles of running. So i went to this place...how awesome is it that the foot doctor here is a runner himself? He measured every part of my foot and legs to figure out what the problem was. And instead of having to buy a new pair of inserts he took the ones i already had and fixed them. 1 week later i did the ragnar relay...and wow what a difference! I am definitely sticking to this place. The shoes i picked out fit like a glove...but you gotta get a couple of them if you love them because they get discontinued.
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Review from Betty C.
San Diego, CA
4/19/2010
Recently I started to work out on a daily basis and because i have foot issues (flat feet and I also tend to wear out my shoes on one side), I decided to go to a place where they specialize in helping people find shoes for running and working out.
I read all the good reviews on Yelp and decided to give SDRI a try.
Staff here is very attentive and very helpful. The minute I stepped in the store, one of the ladies came up to me and asked me if I needed help. I explained to her that I was looking more for workout shoes and that I had flat feet and tended to wear out my shoes on one side.
She was very helpful, explained to me their procedures for measuring my foot, arch flexibility, pronation, etc. I filled out a form about what I was looking for in shoes, my size, etc. She measured my feet and then had me do some walking and step test where my gait and step were measured on a computer. From that information, she brought out some shoes for me to try.
The only negative I had about the shoes was that there were only one pair of shoes that was a wide. She said they were out of the other shoes in a wide and that they would probably get some in later. I wish they had other shoes available in the wide sizes because I find that the wider shoes fit me more comfortably.
The shoes she gave me to try were the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 10. She also brought out some Asics (but due to their narrow arch, I decided against it). The Brooks fit me well and she told me I could walk/run with them outside to see if I liked them or not. I walked around with the shoes in the store and they felt really comfortable, so I decided to take the shoes.
They do have a good return policy and a even better one for people who sign up for their membership. The membership is for one year and offers 15% discount on all their products for the year. Besides shoes, they also sell running shorts, some running clothes and other running gear.
I will probably be back in the near future to look for running shorts. -
Review from Andrew M.
San Diego, CA
1/4/2010
I had heard about this place but was worried that it would be a store that would try to wow me with all this technology and get me to buy really expensive shoes. However, one day going to the post office (they are located near the post office) I saw a sign that said "Sale - $20, $30, $40" - so I figured it was worth a shot.
I went in and the owner greeted me. He was really nice and explained to me how the store worked (the technology, etc.). He was not pushy at all and asked me what I was looking for. I explained that I am not a runner - i wanted inexpensive, but good, flat shoes for weightlifting.
He took me out to the sale rack and found me a great pair of Avia shoes for $20. I tried them on and they were perfect!
He and I talked about weightlifting a bit and he struck me as a sincere guy who is really passionate about fitness and people. What a great store! I wish more shops were as passionate about their mission as that guy is. -
Review from Celin T.
4/15/2009
I'm a noobie when it comes to running. I was in the area and I stopped by to get some advice on some gear. I was greeted as soon as I walked through the door by a staffer. He immediately asked me if he could help me with anything. I told him what I was looking for and needed some advice on which brand to buy. He gave me some useful advice and did not steer me to the most expensive brand. I was also looking at fueling options. He gave me the run down of each brand and advantages and disadvantages to all of them.
I left the store feeling confident about the items I bought and the staff treated me as an equal. They didn't look down on me since I was a noob. I will go here again when looking for more gear or to get more running advice. -
Review from Einna S.
10/12/2009
I had to get rid of my Nike running shoes. It's been over a year or so and it's already worn out. They were not comfy anymore and I struggled for cushion as I ran.
So after my sis, bf and I ate at China Max, we decided to hit up the SD Running Institute. We were greeted with friendly service and that's always a plus. They measured my feet scientifically so they were able to fit me with the best shoe for my feet. They only have the high end of the shoe brands. No cheap stuff here so expect to drop that money hunny.
The first shoe that I tried on were the Etonic's...and oh man I felt like Cinderella...it fit like a glove. VERY comfortable! The 2nd shoe was the Mizuno's and they fit too but a little tight on the top. Comfy though. The last shoe was the Brooks and wasn't feeling it too much. Ta daaa...i bought the Etonic's and luckily with my bf's military discount they came up to a a decent price. Just about $100.
I blessed the shoes the next day for a 2-mile run. It was greaaat. -
Review from Sara O.
San Diego, CA
11/5/2009
Everyone explained what they do, and for more info you can read this: http://www.sdri.net/se... so I'll keep it simple.
If you're at all serious about running, go here for your shoe purchasing. You'd be a fool not to, even if you do end up paying full MSRP, could have gotten them cheaper online, in another color online, etc. These people are dedicated to finding you shoes that are the right fit for your feet, and reading reviews on http://Amazon.com or picking a random pair at another store will not get you where SDRI can. In this day of mega stores, lousy marketing and poor customer service, paying full price is worth it to support a small San Diego business with such good intentions. -
Review from Emily R.
San Diego, CA
10/24/2008
I ran (and finished) my first marathon this summer, and I have to say that SDRI really helped me to reach that finish line. I bought my shoes there, and it was so nice to be fitted for them. I am a swimmer by nature so I had no clue what I needed in a shoe. Paul was very helpful and even gave me some great spots to do some trail running, and let me in on the know of good socks. About a two months before the marathon I went in to see the good Doc about shin splints. While they ended up being more then just splints, Dr. Runco was understanding to my frustration of not being able to run, and even helped map out a weekly running plan to help build my miles back up after healing.
Thanks SDRI you have a customer for life, and I always send people your way when approached about anything that has to deal with running. -
Review from Jay P.
San Diego, CA
10/22/2008
I have been a customer for over 3 years now and I will never go anywhere else. I visited Dr. Runco for a variety of running injuries when I first got into the sport. He is extremely knowledgeable and was able to get me back running quickly.
The employees were very friendly and eager to help me get in the right pair of running shoes. Before visiting the store I had no Idea I needed a shoe with a large amount of support. Since then I have been running pain-free!
I wish I could find this level of service at other stores... -
Review from Tammy H.
San Diego, CA
10/24/2008
I have been going to SDRI since I started running 5 years ago. They are now the only shoe store I go to to buy my running shoes. They have great customer service and a low turnover so a lot of the employees are familiar faces.
They measure your feet, gait, the way your foot lands and all kinds of other stuff to find the perfect shoe for you. After completing 4 marathons and 19 half marathons I can truly say they have never been wrong.
I highly recommend SDRI for any of your running needs.
