I had looked and looked online for a specific pair of Sauconys. I had just about given up when John's Run Walk Shop popped up and they had the shoes in my size at a great price! Then I found out that they are located about 80 miles from me! I ordered the shoes and they are due to be delivered tomorrow! I will be checking out their physical location in the near future. I'm happy I found them! read more

Lisa was super helpful at the new location in Helmsdale. She was very patient and informative - helping me to try on different shoes and talking me through insoles, etc. She was happy to order me a different color and patient with all my questions. Will definitely visit again. read more

I went to Paiomar location , I used to enjoy going there , not anymore. I've always kinda looked for stuff on clearance. I was doing that today . I found some I was interested in , there was no price on the box , I had to listen to a 5-10 minute conversation between employees in the back before a gray haired lady came out and I had to ask her , obviously she had better things to do. She basically looked at the box , she said "$120 " I asked were did u see that ? " I just knew " she had no interest in selling me those shoes. Ya know guys. Dicks can treat me like crap and be a lot cheaper. Won't be back One guy there was pretty much only employee taking care of customers. He was busting his butt. Nobody else was. read more

My first visit purchase was good, sales person very nice. On that day I Ordered a pair of Birkenstock sandals was called they were in for pick up, went in and they couldn't fine the order and when they did they were the wrong size and color. I'm not sure I would go back to them. read more

I was looking for advice for walking shoes. The staff was helpful and the selection was great. I bought a killer pair of socks as well. Nice store with quality shoes. They also carry Haflinger slippers which are the best ever! read more

First time in John's Run Shop near Ashland Ave. I have been dealing with the beginnings of plantar faciitis for a few weeks. Not only is Mike kind and knowledgeable, he is fast! He brought three pair of shoes, all of which fit perfectly and felt much better. He also fitted my older shoes with some Power Step Inserts to bring new (more comfortable) life to my old Brooks. I will definitely be back and will always recommend this establishment! read more

It's so interesting that this store was voted one of the top running shoe stores in the nation, if I recall correctly. I thought I might pick up some new running shoes while visiting Lexington recently. They definitely have a large selection and the staff members were friendly, but they certainly didn't look like experts in their field. The employee that worked with me was very new and had to defer my questions to her coworkers. And while the others were again, very helpful, they didn't look like runners or people who could recommend running shoes. Compared to stores that actually scan your feet, look at your arches, watch you walk, etc., they did none of those things. It was up to me to suggest what type of shoes I wanted them to bring me to try, and they didn't have really much information about shoes that would work best for my needs. I decided to hold off until I got back home to purchase shoes. read more

Nice people and very helpful towards me. It was easy to get my inserts and got it right.

It's been several years since I've been in to the shop in this location. Last visit they were in two buildings on each side of street. They are now down to one building. They don't seem to have as much inventory as they used to, however employees were super friendly. read more

I've bought every pair of running shoes I've owned since that first pair of Air Pegasus in 1982 from John's. I've sent patients to them for evaluation of foot wear and inserts for plantar fasciitis. They are solid, dependable, a pillar of the running community. read more

I first started buying my running shoes at John's when I developed ankle issues from running in the wrong shoes. After I explained the pain I'd been having to one of the sales clerks at John's, he examined the bottoms of the shoes I'd been running in, watched me walk and jog around the store and he fitted me with a better pair of shoes that would help with my pronation (duck feet). The new pair did the trick! John's will keep a record of the brand, style, & size of shoes you wear. Which makes it super easy whenever you need a new pair but can't remember if you wear a 7 or a 7 1/2 :) read more

John's Run Walk Shop - time for a new pair of tennies - Shoe Stores Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Expert guidance in selecting shoes, best selection in town, friendly staff, community minded.

I've taken several friends to John's when they've come to visit. They have all found fabulous shoes that they can't find elsewhere. Recently we went to see about sending a pair of shoes to a family member. Service was great, mailing costs were reasonable. And my husband actually enjoyed looking for shoes for himself... which he found! Thankful for this locally-owned business! read more

I bought a pair of shoes upon staff advice and recommendation, and after a day of wearing them exclusively indoors, found that they were too small. I called and was told I could drive back to Lexington and exchange or return them. When I arrived I found another pair of shoes that worked better with an employee but another worker found an invisible "scuff" I've yet to find and wouldn't let me return the shoes, though they were in perfect condition. They did manage to sell me two pairs of expensive socks that they promised would work better with the shoes. By the time I left the shop the second time, I had spent over two hundred dollars on shoes that hurt my feet and they refused to exchange them. They don't care about the health and safety of their customers. Clearly others have had good experiences, but I will never be back and will warn anyone I can to stay far away from this business and their unethical and predatory practices. read more

Pros: great selection, knowledgeable staff, small business. So why 1 star? Because the staff are often full of themselves and give unsolicited judgement and advice. My wife left in tears. She has a bit of a strange stride and was trying out a pair of shoes. The associate (who wasn't working with her) thought it helpful to ridicule her running and tell her what she could or could not do. No one asked for his opinion or mansplaining. Likewise when i mentioned that i like to use a certain shoe as my everyday shoe after wearing some for 2,200 miles i was explained to why those aren't the right shoes. I never asked them. Just commented that i like those shoes. The condescension outweighs the selection and small business. When you ridicule my wife to the point that she cries, i am not returning for any of my shoes read more

I went to school in KY, and John's has always taken care of me. For years I have refused to buy shoes anywhere else other than here because of service and knowledge of the shoes from the people selling. I know when I come to Johns, I am going to get a great pair of shoes that fit. This has been the truth time and time again. However... I can no longer support this company. Recently, I bought a pair of sliders. I returned to my home in California, and noticed out of the blue, one shoe suddenly was smaller than the other. I came back to Lexington a month later, and John's gladly exchanged them as defective. But, just a week later, while still in KY, I noticed the very same thing. I called, and explained to the person who answered the phone what had happened. I was told to bring the shoes back in for a replacement. I asked for credit towards another pair/type of shoe. I was told to come in. I took shoes back to the store in Chevy Chase. I was told they could no longer honor store credit or replace the shoes. I was give the name of HOKA and a telephone number to call. The next day, I called the store again, and was told to come. I went, and was given store credit at the Palomar location. I was happy, and the relationship was restored. I wrote an email to their info email address. The manager replied, he took store credit away from me and in no uncertain terms, explained he refused to "Keep taking a hit" on a problem that I seemed to be the "only one" having. I contacted Hoka. Hoka, explained they thought it was poor business practice for the store not to send the shoe back to us. 10 days later, I received notification the shoe was found to be defective. JOHNS has lost my business for their inept ability to treat me as a customer and stand up for me. Thanks for standing up for gay rights by putting a flag in your window. That means a lot. Now, please remember the reason why you have a business... it is your customer! read more

The first thing I should state is that I am not a runner. If I even think about running, I break out in hives. I power walk with my dogs and do a lot of trail walking/hiking on various surfaces including dirt, asphalt and concrete. I first starting shopping at John's when they had a location at Lexington Green. Their staff introduced me to some brands of sandals and slippers I had never heard of, but found to be very comfortable and stylish. Among other things, I bought a pair of Haflinger sheep slippers that I have replaced three times (because I keep wearing them out), and a great pair of Finn Comfort sandals in which I have replaced the insoles and still wear. A few years ago, I was having serious trouble with plantar faciitis, was having almost debilitating pain, and was not at all happy with the insoles recommended by my podiatrist. The sales person I met at John's on that occasion, a very busy Saturday, acted like I was the only person in the store and it was his personal mission to help me. I left with two new pairs of shoes that I wore religiously and began to experience decreased pain within a few days. Now, this is important: I had been seen by a medical professional who prescribed insoles and a cortisone injection in my heel, neither of which gave me any relief. The salespeople at John's see plantar faciitis every day. They gave me a flier with exercises, causes, things to avoid...they were prepared. I didn't get anything from my doctor except a bill. Fast forward to last weekend...my new checkerboard Vans had arrived and one look at the insoles in the new shoes told me I wanted something with more arch support. I took my new shoes (that I did not buy at John's) to the store and was helped, again, by someone who took the time to get it right. I got a great pair of insoles, advice on how to remove the insoles already in the shoes, information about a cool walk coming up, and two new pairs of socks. She also checked the sport shoes I had on (that I did buy from John's) to make sure they still fit well, and she checked those insoles as well. She didn't oversell me and didn't say I needed another pair of shoes (which I was half expecting). In short, I am a huge fan of John's Run Walk Shop. I appreciate their expertise and the number of very good brands they carry. I also appreciate that they are active in our community and sponsor or support so many events. Can you buy the shoes cheaper on Zappos? Maybe. But this is a local store with an interest in our community and I am proud to support them. read more

I haven't been running in years and I've decided it's time to get back into it. I asked around, any anyone I've asked where to get running shoes suggesting that I go to John's Run Walk Shop. I was told to bring in my old shoes, they would look at them and measure my feet, and they would hook me up. I have to be honest... This place is crazy efficient. They measured my feet, looked at my shoes, and brought me three pairs of shoes that fit perfectly. They also asked questions about the fit to make sure the one I decided on was optimal for me. Rang me up and I was on my way in 15 minutes. Literally. Glad I took their recommendation. read more

John's Run Walk Shop - Two rows of chairs facing each other. Perfect for the conversation between you and your salesperson. - Shoe Stores Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

I took my wife to John's Run Walk Shop. I am a big time runner so when she decided she wanted to start running with me I was super excited. As always the staff here does a great job in helping you find the perfect shoe to support your feet for whatever activity you are focused on. They are able to analyze you feet and know what kind of support you need. In addition to getting the perfect shoes for her we also found some great deals on shirts and jackets that were on sale. If you are in the need of great supportive shoes then definitely shop here. read more

John's Run Walk Shop - Shoe Stores Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

See all

I highly recommend this place!! I called about my cleats for a spin bike and the gentleman on the phone knew exactly what I needed. Very friendly staff. read more

Best customer service in any store in any market. Great selection as well but the service is just amazing. Highly recommend

This is such a great place! I went for the first time yesterday and the people who worked there were EXTREMELY helpful and friendly! They sat down and helped me pick out the right shoe, got a bunch for me to try on, and made sure each one had the right fit. The prices of their shoes are on par (kind of expensive but you can't find anything cheaper) and they have a lot of running gear. I think the one thing I wish they had was a treadmill and video camera. I went to a place in Indiana and they recorded your feet while running on the treadmill. They then took this footage, reviewed it, and recommended based on what they saw. John's did this but not to that extent. The employee watched me walk to see how my feet leaned but I wish it was more in depth. Other than that, this place is great! They didn't have the color in the shoe I wanted so the lady called the other location, and then ordered them from Brooks. Great customer service!! read more

See all

John's is a great, running-specific shop. Being an avid distance runner, I love knowing John's is around. John's has a great selection of running shoes. But, I go more often for other running necessities like gels, blister pads, insoles, running gloves, etc. The staff is knowledgeable and approachable. I've been to snobby running stores that make you feel like an idiot when asking questions. John's has always been more than willing to help and explain things to me. Highly recommend. read more

I scheduled a fitting and was in and out in 20 minutes! the employee was very nice and helpful and didn't try to upsell me, In fact the shoes he recommended to me were on clearance! I have been wearing them for a week now and they are great! read more

Came here to buy shoes for my new job. My new job requires me to be on my feet all day for hours at a time. So I knew if I wanted to ever be able to feel my feet again I would have to bite the bullet and buy some quality shoes regardless of how my wallet feels about it. The owner Melody helped me pick out the perfect pair. I told her what I was looking for and described my job and within seconds she said she had the perfect pair of shoes for me. I usually write reviews quickly after I patron a place but this time I decided to wear my shoes for over a month at my new job and see if she was correct. I have to say Melody was on point! The shoes are still in one piece and most importantly so are my feet! I personally always love to shop local and will definitely come here for my next pair of shoes. Another benefit is that they have their own parking, which is a rare commodity in this part of town. read more

I wish I could give more stars but I cannot. I went in recently looking for a pair of new running shoes. Let me state that I am in now way a hardcore runner. I run 3 miles a day, 5 days a week to keep the beer gut away. I told the lady I really like Nike and I had a few pairs of Nike zoom previously. She proceeded to bring out multiple pairs of shoes and I told her that I didn't like them. She then stated "if you go to California, this is what they are wearing." Why would I care what they are wearing in California? Anyways, I saw a pair of Nikes on clearance and she basically refused to sell them to me. I said goodbye and went to Dicks. I tried to give them my business but they wouldn't sell me what I wanted. Weird. read more

Very friendly and they go out of their way. Not my favorite to go downtown Lexington but was very easy to find. I took a Garmin watch in to have a ban ordered. read more

Extremely friendly and helpful staff. Took the time to find what I needed to correct discomfort while running

I am a big believer in shopping local and John's is a great place to do so. I have bought my running shoes there over the last several years and yes I probably pay more here than I would at a big box store but the personalized service I get is beyond compare. It's not just simply good service but knowledgable service...they know the sport of running! They can answer your questions on shoes and gear and will honestly tell you if it would be good for you or if not. One thing I always do is take my current pair of shoes in so they can see where I am hitting and what the wear is. This always helps them get me in the shoe that is best for me. A long time ago I remember bug shoes based on a cool color or design but now I rely on these shoe experts to guide me on what is best for the type of athlete I am. read more

Paid $130.00 for new pair of Saucony running shoes that I took with me for a two week vacation. The stitching in the toe began to unravel and upon return I took them for replacement and they informed me that "we don't make the shoes". Very disappointed in the service. Long time customer and last time customer. Rod read more

They didn't have what came for however, the stores are neat, full of good quality options, and the staff is very helpful. The products prices that I looked at were moderately priced or slightly to the high side, but that is what you should expect from a quality establishment with such great service. I say stores because there are two; one across the street from the other. I was looking for hiking shoes and they only had three to choose from, but the quickly directed me to another store in town. I would shop here again. read more

John's Run Walk Shop - Shoe Stores Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

See all

I commute to work by walking and finally decided to purchase some shoes specifically for this activity. I stopped in on a Saturday afternoon and was surprised by how quickly I was helped despite how busy it was in the shop. The clerk measured my feet and asked several questions about my needs so that he could make recommendations. We also walked to another side of the store to look at some merchandise during which time he surreptitiously assessed my walk. This was actually a great strategy because it meant that I wasn't self-conscious while he was evaluating me and probably made sure that I wasn't altering the walk in any way. I tried on four pairs of shoes and found a pair I really liked; however since it's a smaller shop, they didn't have the color I wanted in my size (curse you, large feet!), which ultimately led to me deciding not to purchase the shoes there that day. People have been suggesting a professional shoe fitting for years because they take all sorts of measurements and have you walk on treadmills, and I was a bit disappointed not to see that here. It does seem like my consultant was very knowledgeable, but I feel like the quality of assessment could vary based upon each person's skill. All that said, I would definitely recommend this place to those in search of a professional fitting in Lexington! read more

My son, who uses a power wheelchair, tried to go there today to find some shoes to go with his new AFOs. It was inaccessible. There was no ramp or way for him to get in. In this day and age, this is not acceptable. Shame in them. read more

This place shouldn't receive one star. I made a return weeks ago. I have yet to receive the money back. I have never had a return take this long. The manager Riley said it is according to the billing cycle which I have never heard of. So don't do business with a store that doesn't give you the return right away. Go elsewhere because it isn't professional and I want my money back for the return. I will be contacting the Better Business Bureau too. (Finally got the refund after it took a month) read more

Wish zero stars was a thing! NOT HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE??? That's illegal.. and not only that they were SO RUDE. No my brother cannot just "use the two steps in the front" seeing that he is 100% paralyzed from the waste down. My dad did end up carrying him inside to find ourselves in a store with limited inventory and rude sales people. Didn't even get a hello or any sort of greeting, then when I said thank you and goodbye I got a head nod... gee thanks. Just when I was telling my dad how nice the people in KY were compared to WA. read more

We brought our son in for running shoes for track. Dave asked questions about my son's events, watched him walk and listened to him about his foot discomfort/issues. Dave brought out 3 pairs of shoes based on this information. He explained how and why these shoes would work well. My son took each for a "test drive" and they discussed the fit and feel. Dave was so attentive. He was knowledgeable about body mechanics and every shoe his hand touched. It was a GREAT shopping experience! read more

Great people who are extremely involve in our community.

This is a great place to go whether you are a new runner or an old one! They are so helpful and so easy to find exactly what you are looking for! read more

Whether a novice, experienced, or well-trained athlete John's has all of you running shoe needs. A very experienced staff will ask to you walk barefoot and examine your old shoes, so that they may choose the correct type of running, walking, or hiking shoes needed. Also, technical running clothes and watches are available. Without a doubt this is the best running shoe store in the Lexington area. read more

Great mom and pop store for athletic shoes, don't forget to check out their other store across the street for more dressy shoes.