I'm so thankful for Athletic Outpost in Walnut Creek! I've worn out my shoes and was able to purchase a new pair over the phone and pickup curbside on a Sunday! Thank you for being there during this hard time! read more

This place was amazing! I came in looking for running shoes and I got wonderful customer service. I tried on many different shoes, ran outside with them, even wore two shoes on two different feet to tell the difference. So helpful! read more

My wife was having pain in her shins from Orange Theory and wanted to see if a new pair of shoes could help. A search of shoe stores in the area suggested Athletic Outpost was a good place try. The Yelp reviews seemed a little too good to be true but I thought it was worth a try. Was it ever! I got the impression that Tim was cut from the mold of a 1950's small business owner where customer service was the name of the game. He brings that same mentality to this century. He spent over an hour with my wife to recommend a shoe that would help her pain. That alone is unbelievable, but the recommended shoe actually helped. I could not recommend him/them enough and we will certainly be going there for future needs. read more

I went to a different shoe store for a good pair of running shoes after getting shin splints. I didn't have a bad experience there, but it wasn't a good one and my legs kept getting worse and worse. Then I stumbled on "Athletic Outpost" I walked in, described what I needed and the foot/leg problems I've had for years. The woman pulled out 2 pairs of shoes, both of which fit very differently and very well to my unique foot and I bought them both on the spot. I also bought a pair of awesome flip flops that actually gave me blisters (I have a really mis-shaped foot) and right away they exchanged them, telling me I would have better luck with a lighter fabric on top. Sure enough, I get to enjoy the awesome arch support in a flip flop without any problems! I recommend that every person from the occasional walker to the marathon runner make "Athletic Outpost" their go-to spot for shoes. read more

I went into Athletic Outpost last night prior to my yoga class to find a new pair of running shoes to break in before running the Bay Breeze half marathon next month. Tim, the sales person, was very friendly and knowing that I was in a bit of a hurry, asked a few pertinent questions and found me a great shoe. Tim showed me 3 pairs of shoes. 2 were on sale and 1 was full price. He never tried to push the full priced shoe on me but was more concerned that I got the right shoe for my particular feet issues. 15 minutes later I was on my way to my yoga class and happy with my purchase. I chose the Asics - which were on sale - and I wore them this morning for a quick 3 mile run and they felt terrific! While I probably could have bought the same shoe online, I like supporting small local business establishments. read more

I took my Fiance here to get new running shoes after reading all the good reviews on yelp. I thought this would be the perfect place for him to get the shoes he needs for running. As we walk in there was signs outside letting us know that they were having a sale. I was happy that there was a sale and I was planning on buying his shoes that same day. But when we walked in, no one greeted us. We didn't know where to begin on finding the perfect running shoe on our own. So of course, I asked for help. The guy who helped us, didn't say much and just pointed out which row to look at for the shoes that would fit my Fiance's running style... We didn't even know which row he pointed too leaving us clueless. The whole point of going to this store was to get help on which shoe would fit my Fiance's running style and buy them that day but we ended up leaving for lack of customer service read more

Athletic Outpost is a really, really good reason to support small business. These guys know their sh*t! I had vague memories of our Cross Country coach telling us to buy our shoes here so when I spotted a Groupon deal, I was all over it. Recently, I ran in the LA Marathon and with training getting intense, I needed to buy a better pair of shoes. The guy who helped me (I think it was the owner) was super knowledgeable, friendly and even gave me some really useful info on how I should train for the race. He was honest too, letting me know that he had his daughters try out one of the shoes on the rack and they didn't like them. At the end of the day, good quality running shoes cost about the same. Why risk buying from some Joe Schmoe who just tells you to run around the block and see. These guys know running and they know running shoes. My marathon went off without a hitch and I have these guys to thank for it. read more

Unbelievable experience--I called an hour before closing, and the owner of this store offered to stay open late just to let me try on shoes. I couldn't arrive until 20 minutes after their closing, and he was all smiles. He then advised me expertly and patiently, without pressure or obligation. When i finally decided to purchase a pair, he suggested a CHEAPER pair instead, trying to down-sell me! I knew nothing about running shoes, and he easily could have sold me an overtly expensive pair. The customer service was over the top, product knowledge thorough (and attitude not at all condescending), and the prices very reasonable. This is the epitome of what small businesses should be, and why people should always preference these kind of shops over generic mega-online stores. I would refer any and everybody to Athletic Outpost. read more

I always, always go to Athletic Outpost to get my running shoes...I've been frequenting this store since high school (I grew up in Lamorinda), and every time I head home for a visit, I always get new shoes. I haven't had any painful shin splint problems ever since I began buying the proper shoes and inner soles from Athletic Outpost back during my high school track days (I pronate and have horribly flat feet). The super helpful guy mentioned by Dan S. is back, and is now the owner of the store (his name is Tim). It's co-run by Shannon, who's also been at the store for at least as long as I've frequented it.... 9 years. They're both runners themselves, are extremely nice and helpful, and are very knowledgeable about each and every shoe they sell. They'll take a look at your feet, the way you walk and run, ask you about any pains or problems you have, and then recommend shoes. You can run around the block in the different shoes, and they are happy to spend as long as is necessary to help you find your perfect shoe. This is a small, local business that really knows their merchandise and cares about (and remembers) their customers. While they don't have every last running shoe in existence in stock (as mentioned in a previous review), they carry reliable brands, and know the biomechanics of running and their shoes. If you're more concerned with finding a flashy pair of kicks, go to a big box store, but if you want to get a great fitting pair of shoes, no matter what foot/leg problems or injuries you've had/dealt with in the past (blisters, bunions, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, knee issues etc.) I'd suggest supporting this wonderful local business. I won't go anywhere else! Parking tip: if you're lucky, you can snag the one reserved parking spot behind the store (thru the alley) and not have to deal with metered parking. read more

My sister brought me here to by a brand new pair of running shoes, as we are both trying this whole exercising regularly thing! The young lady who helped me find my shoes was quite accommodating. She checked out my feet, and watched me walk, assessing what kind of shoe i need. She then brought out pair after pair of shoes, and after each one i nixed, she didn't give up and brought out another pair. Finally we found the ones, and i felt the magic! Bonus points to the person who helped me out-she was funny, honest about all the shoes, and kept my sister and i very entertained with great conversation. A small, but great place. read more

I have been having awful foot pain. I saw my doctor and found out that those memory foam shoes I was buying were the opposite of what I needed. He recommended specific shoes, insoles, and the store to get them from. I felt so desperate that I left his office and headed straight to the Athletic Outpost. As I talked to Tim I found out that he isn't just an average businessman. He is super knowledgeable about foot pain issues. He spent time with me explaining further why the shoes that were recommended to me by the doctor would help my problem. He also showed me some house shoes (slippers) that would also support my flat feet. Initial bought the Brooks sneakers and Sole insoles. I went back a week later to buy the Vionic slippers. They did not have my size in black, so Tim immediately put in the order and called me one he received them. I went back today and bought the slippers. I am on the road to recovery and am happy to have great shoes. But I also am happy to make my purchase from a small business with a really great owner. I highly recommend this store! read more

My foot doctor recommended this place for shoe inserts that I needed for my heal spur. I walked in and was helped by Tim who is very knowledgeable about his products and feet issues. I ended up with a very good pair of inserts off the self vs having a pair made that would cost a fortune! Tim also ordered me a pair of bling bling flip flops that will also help my foot issue. Went here for the second time to buy a pair of sneakers for general use, and our up coming trip to Disneyland that will have me doing A Lot of walking! The owner helped me out, and he is AWESOME. I told him what I was looking for and he hooked me up with a great pair of shoes. The are not cheep, but I needed a good pair of shoes for walking and doing my EvoFit class - I have noticed a great difference with the shoes he recommended. So if you have foot issues and looking for a great pair of fitness shoes but you don't want to waste time and money go here and they will hook you up too! read more

I came to this store because of a living social coupon. smart advertising. wouldn't have thought to try this place before. Definitely worthwhile. I can't vouch for how great they are at fitting shoes. I pretty much went in with an idea of what I wanted. They have a good selection of a wide range of shoes. I liked that it was a small shop with not the same old clothing lines, etc. of the bigger stores. Really good array of different types of clothing for runners of all sizes (that's right, we're not all 5'4" 90 lbs - not that there's anything wrong with that ;-) ) Didn't try to oversell me on shoes, but I gotta say I felt a bit under served on my determining the right shoe. The other challenge is they can really only afford to buy in the sweet spot of sizes, so if you're a narrow or larger foot (and maybe smaller foot) they'll have to special order - but they do this happily and quickly. All in all a great experience. Much better than some place like Road Runner, and you can tell they'll help you out with any concerns down the line. Will definitely go back! read more

Very nice experience here. Tom knows his stuff and will make sure you get the right fitting shoe. I have full confidence in buying from him that I'm getting the right shoe for me and my needs. Pricing seemed very fair as well...I thought about going to another Sports Basement type place, but I don't have the same level of confidence in their sales people relative to Tom. Dude knows running. The only thing that's keeping this from a 5-star review is the selection....would have liked to see a few more brands/options to choose from. Thanks, Tom, for a great experience. read more

This is my go to for running shoes. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. They have a great return policy as well. I highly recommend stopping by! They have a great selection. read more

My husband and I were on vacation in California. We like to look up running stores. We found the Athletic Outpost and decided to check out their inventory. We are very happy we stopped by. My husband had been looking for a running jacket and he found one here. They had a wide selection of jackets. The salesman was great and wasn't pushy on making a sale. I was real happy on wide selection of sports bra. A lot of stores just cater to certain figures, but I was happy to see they had sport bras for all shapes. We're glad we stopped by and look forward to seeing what else they will have next time we are in town. read more

We are so happy to have walked into this store. We were just walking around the neighborhood and I thought that it wouldn't hurt to just ask if they had kids track spikes. Shannon was amazingly helpful! She helped us find a 2.5 men's shoe for my son with his wide foot. The prices are great. She was super sweet to us and our puppy. Shannon's information was invaluable - she knows what is is talking about from experience and knowledge. This is my new go-to running store. read more

I came here to check out running shoes. The lady was very patient and helpful with my indecisiveness. I tried on a few shoes and she would watch me walk to make sure the shoes fit my walking/rynning. Finally after a few tries I was able to find a pair of brooks that fit perfectly. Although it was a bit pricy but my feet can assure that it was worth it! read more

Athletic Outpost - Brooks Adrenaline GTS 15 - Shoe Stores Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Shannon was great! I needed to be fit for the right sneakers and Shannon went 100% towards finding me a pair. She didn't try to up-sell me and was patient as well as knowledgable. I consider myself a loyal customer! read more

I have bad feet. I was told by Kaiser podiatry to go to this store The owner is by far the most knowledgeable, informed and helpful person I have met in any running or shoe store around. I never realized how bad the others were until I arrived here. I got some great orthotics and ended up with new running shoes that had the support I needed. My feet have never been the same. They don't hurt anymore. I will never buy athletic shoes anywhere else again. read more

I LOVE Athletic Outpost! I have been a loyal customer for probably 12 years. Tim and Shannon are extremely helpful and have always steered me and my husband in the right direction with our shoes. When a new version of shoe comes out and they don't feel it is up to standard, they let you know. They take the time to find out your needs and then suggest shoes that would be best. I also have purchased several of the athletic shirts Shannon makes. They are comfortable and wear well. She also has some great fabrics. I have moved out of the area and still contact Tim and Shannon for my athletic shoe needs. read more

Of course, by the newer reviews, you can tell that Tim's back. Was he gone? Maybe it was me... Regardless, I see a lot of people with a variety of complaints about their ongoing aches/pains due to sports. I regularly recommend Athletic Outpost. I was a believer in Ida Rolf's philosophy that, if the architecture of the lower part of the body is bad (in this case, how your feet hit the ground) then the upper part is distorted slightly to compensate. Get good shoes by someone who knows what's right for you and in some cases you can lose the ankle/knee braces and ibuprofen. Worth it? read more

They are very experienced, informative, caring, and plain awesome! I highly recommend coming here for a pair of running shoes! read more

Tim was very knowledgeable and professional in assessing my needs; measuring my foot size, (not just taking my word for it!), listening to my concerns, actually taking the time to watch me walk back and forth, observing my stance, discussing care of the shoes, types of socks I am most comfortable wearing, walking, running, everyday use. Reminded me of Warren's Shoes in the small southern town I grew up where Mr. Warren himself would spend as much time as you needed to find the perfect pair of shoes to start school in the fall! Tim brought out multiple pairs within my price range reviewing attributes of each style, observing me walk and even if I had difficulty putting them on and lacing them up! I purchased an athletic pair and a casual slip on that I returned a week later with absolutely no problem. Even as pricy as my purchased pair was, I will never shop anyplace else for walking shoes! read more

This is without a question the best running store I have ever been to. The owner Tim and his staff really take the time to understand what you are looking for. They are motivated to get people the RIGHT shoes/tools they need to run comfortably, not just make a sale. They also have generous return policies that enable you to try out shoes/insoles and then return them if they are not right for you. I will be coming back here every time I'm considering making any new shoe or insole purchases. read more

Came in and knew what I wanted which was a walking shoe for people with arch problems. Salespeople was very understanding and knowledgeable. Will be back! read more

First of all, it's a small, locally owned shop that somehow manages to fit a ton of inventory into a very cozy little space. If they're not busy you will most likely be greeted right as you come in, as I was; definitely a local-shop feel to the place. I went there looking for a particular brand of arch support, and they had them and were able to fit them for me with no problems. While I was there, I also found that my running shoes were actually pretty crappy as running shoes, pretty as they were, and was given some help in picking out a new pair that would be a little more conducive to my newest fitness hobby--I've only been running for a few months now, so definitely a n00b when it comes to picking the right gear. Anyway, I walked out with a brand new pair of MUCH better and more comfortable Brooks running shoes, replete with PowerStep arch supports, and when I asked if they could toss my old shoes they told me that they usually leave them out for the homeless; another great selling point and hopefully someone will get better use out of my relatively new old shoes than I would have, had I continued to beat up my feet jogging in them. So yeah, overall a great little shop in a great little area, with a couple of great people in charge of the joint. 10/10, will shop again! read more

Today I was able to get new running shoes with curbside pick up! Tim was very helpful over the phone and in person, ensuring I was properly fitted. I am thankful and appreciative of the service and I can't wait to run in my new shoes! I would recommend Athletic Outpost to anyone in the east bay and beyond. Thank you so much! read more

Another 5-star experience buying running shoes that will accommodate my orthotics & my unique foot structure. This time Tim assisted me & I could not have been more confident in his expertise. He knew all about the doctor that fitted me with orthotics, the tendons needing extra support and the type of shoe that would best provide the support I needed. I walked out with a pair of Brooks Adrenaline 20's that fit like a glove, with the perfect amount of support & heel fit. Highly recommend this athletic shoe store for the best service, value and shoe selection in the Bay Area. read more

I have gone back time and time again to this store to get my running shoes. The same two people are always there - the owner and a super nice woman who's been there for 20 years. Both are extremely helpful and knowledgeable about fitting running shoes. I have always been happy with their recommendations, and although they do have a very nice return policy (try your shoes for 5 miles before committing to them) I have never had to use it. Thank you! read more

All right. So I came here five days before an event where I was supposed to run 17-ish miles and asked for help finding new shoes. The guy that helped me, Tim, was super knowledgeable and friendly. He helped me find a pair of shoes that served me well with no "break-in" pains and effective cushioning. Was very happy with the service I received and will come back here for all future running shoe needs! read more

This happened a few years ago when I first started working as a server next door. I needed some comfortable shoes to work in and was searching all over the internet for shoes. I remembered this store and looked at their reviews on yelp and decided to come here. I must add that my family has owned clothing stores for 30+ years so I am very big on supporting small businesses. So I parked in their stall, and right in front of it reads "Customer parking only" which I was aware of and was warned by my coworkers not to park there because of the rude owner. However, I was a customer so I saw no problem parking there. So after I parked, I see the owner through the window and smile, then I walk next door (my work) to pick up my check and tips to spend it on shoes at this store. It took less than 5mins. I walk out and I see the owner speaking to the parking enforcement, and a $40 ticket on my dashboard. I WAS FURIOUS. On top of that, the owner was EXTREMELY RUDE, yelling at me saying that the spot is only for customers and that I need to learn how to read blah blah blah. What tops it off is that, SHE SAW ME PARK THERE AND INSTEAD OF COMING OUT AND TELLING ME NOT TO PARK THERE, SHE CALLS THE PARKING ENFORCERS! I explained myself to the parking enforcer and he actually told me that she is actually a difficult person and that she is their #1 caller, and the only way to get the ticket appealed to have her go to the office herself, in which it'll be impossible. Every time I pass by the store, I get furious and it brings me back to that day. You need to learn how to run a business. Being rude and making enemies is not the way to go. I am all for small businesses, but did not feel bad for telling a lot of people not to support this business. read more

I am a huge fan of Athletic Outpost. I started going to this store 5 years ago when training for the SF Marathon. The owners are amazing. They are extremely knowledgeable about every product they sell, and never try to rush you or pressure you into making a decision. Everytime I need new shoes I head to Athletic Outpost. Without even telling them, they take one look at my shoe and know exactly what "make and model" I'm wearing. Then --- they don't just offer the same shoe to hurry me out of the store, they make sure I still like it and offer some alternatives. This is helpful since athletic shoes change SO frequently. For years I've been going in and trying on their suggested shoes, usually ending up with the same Saucony running shoe they sold me on my very first visit......until this past Saturday. I went in for a new pair, tried on a few options and ended up in a pair of Brooks -- and LOVE THEM. Without their attentino to detail and investment in the customer, I never would have found this shoe! Oh - the bonus! If you don't like your purchases after 2 weeks - even after WEARING them outside in the mud- you can return them!! That's really cool.... You don't get this type of customer service, patience and product knowledge anymore. Thank you Athletic Outpost! read more

Five stars for Athletic Outpost!! I just started running this year (about a month ago), and with the start of my half marathon training imminent i decided it's time to get me a real pair of running shoes. I first tried going cheap by ordering online, which turned out to be a bad idea. Poor fit, and they were probably the wrong type of support for me, as well. As per Yelp's recommendation, i finally broke down and decided to do the 25-minute commute and visit Athletic Outpost. My first visit i was greeted by the female staff (Shannon?). She was very efficient!! First she made me take off my shoes and stand up straight, and diagnosed that i overpronate a little bit. She immediately pulled out shoes for me one by one, and i was really impressed by her knowledge of shoes mechanics (didn't know that a good pair of shoes don't ever need breaking in!!!). She made me walk a few steps in them to see if they correct my overpronation issue. Not half an hour later, i walked out with a new pair of Adidas to add to my growing collection (i'm a fangirl!!). Five days and a 5K race later, i noticed that i started having issues with the muscles on the inside of my right calves. Armed with their "come back and let us know if you found any problems with them!!" promise, i made a second visit to the store. This time i was greeted by Tim, who immediately homed in on the root of my problem as the weak arch support in my insoles. He first pulled out a pair of replacement insoles to try with my purchased shoes, then made me run a few yards outside while he watched. Failing that, he offered to exchange my shoes for another model. Out came a couple other models, each of which he made me put on and wear running outside for a few yards. Once i found ones that seem to fix my issue, he happily exchanged my previous pair with my new pair, just like that!! I walked out with a pair of Brooks (a little bummed about not having Adidas dress my feet, but i'm sure my calves will thank me later). Just out of curiosity, i googled the prices of both pairs once i got home to see if i got a good deal. They were the same online and in-store. But this way i got to have the joy of knowing i helped a local business thrive. Thanks, Tim & Shannon!! You both know your stuff, and i had a great experience shopping with you!! Will definitely come back for my next pair of running shoes!!! read more

Shannon was very helpful today. I have purchased a few running shoes from them and I keep coming back. They are amazing there!

I love Athletic Outpost. Right when you first walk into the little shop, you are greeted by either Shannan or Tim (or both) and you instantly feel comfortable. I was looking for a pair of running shoes to replace my old worn down Asics. Shannan, the store manager, instantly pulled out some comparable shoes based on what I already had and the description I gave her on the injuries/issues I had while running. I decided to try out a pair of Adidas' and before I walked out with them, she assured me that I could bring them back if I didn't like them after running a few miles in them. Turned out that I had to do just that since the cushioning was a little too soft for me. Brought them in today and was greeted by Tim, the owner. Without hesitation, he willingly processed my return and pulled out another couple pair of shoes that I looked at previously, at my request, and gave me some additional information about them before I made my decision. He even allowed me to run up and down the block with them so I could feel them on concrete. Made my decision so much easier and I ended up walking out with a pair of Brooks. Athletic Outpost will always be my first resort for running gear. Prices are comparable to the larger athletic stores (always thought smaller stores would be more expensive--I was wrong!) but with the added benefit of knowledgeable, personal, and genuinely kind service. They even let me bring my little dog inside as I shopped. In return, I let their kids play with her while I'm there...kind of works out for both of us :). read more

Returned to AO after developing horrible blisters. Shannon was so helpful and explained the importance of not wearing any cotton against my body on my runs as well as a special gel-like roll on bar to prevent blisters. I just can't believe the extensive knowledge, experience & individual care of Shannon & Tim. They have so much pride & integrity in their store and it really shows. They do not want to sell you the most expensive shoes, but rather the right shoe for your arch, pronation, mileage, price-range and style. They are both so respectful towards each & every customer and have consistently competitive prices. read more

Having grown up in a running mecca, I have high standards for running shops. I have been to a couple other running stores in the east bay and left unimpressed (how can a store that big with that much space be THAT disorganized?!). I happened upon this matchbox of a store in Walnut Creek and was wary, but I have to say I am super impressed! Both times I've been there I've had the pleasure of working with Tim, who is knowledgable, efficient and kind. He seems to approach the experience as I would; namely, a good product at a good price. He doesn't 'upsell.' In fact today he 'downsold' and got me a fantastic deal on a new pair of shoes and shirt, both of which were on sale at a screaming discount. And despite the small size of the store, they have a lot of merchandise...more importantly it is displayed in a thoughtful, organized way that makes it easy to find what you are looking for. I highly recommend this store. read more

Although I didn't buy a pair of shoes this day, Tim, the manager, spent so much time trying to fit my weird feet, even prefacing it with, I'm not sure we can find something that'll work for you, but, we'll try...and at least 1/2 hr later, after trying many pairs, we both conceded. It was a very noble attempt tho. He was so determined, and so very nice. After a multi-surgery, including bunion removal, my feet are different sized, and one is wide and looks like a duck-foot. Thank you Tim. You gave it hell ! I have recommended a couple of people to your shop since. (I live in Pleasanton, can't figure out why yelp says Hayden, although I did log in here once from there...) Max stars Athletic Outpost/Tim Ketron! read more

I'm extremely late in writing this review. My experience at AO was last August! I had a half marathon coming up in 1.5 months and the pair of running shoes I had been training in were starting to hurt my feet. Time to get a new pair, especially if I wanted to break them in before the race. I decided to atop in at AO and see what they were all about. I enjoy supporting the local businesses. I was greeted by Tim, who asked me questions about my running style, how my previous shoes had worked for me, etc. He brought out several different pairs of running shoes to try on, and allowed me to jog down the alley next to the store so he could examine the way I run. My last pair of shoes were a heavier, more solid shoe, and I expressed interest in possibly trying out a lighter shoe. I asked tim about their return policy on the shoes if they proved not to be a good fit. He said that as long as they were still in sellable condition (i.e. they were only run on a track or treadmill for a few miles), then I could bring the back. I ended up leaving with a pair of Brooks. Loe and behold, when I went to the gym the next day to try out my new running shoes, I got terrible shinsplints barely past the 1 mile mark. I came back in to AO the following day with the shoes and receipt, and was glad to see Tim working. I explained to him that the shoes gave me shinsplints and that I wanted to exchange them for a different pair. I tried on a few more pairs of shoes and ended up with the Saucony Hurricanes--coincidentally the same brand/model as the shoes I had just worn out. At least I know what my feet like best: heavy duty stability! read more