I LOVE Rapid Transit. The store is staffed--on the "shoe side"--by athletes who know what they are talking about. The Rapid Transit staff gave me fantastic advice on shoes several years ago and I have gratefully stuck with the same brand and model since. So, obviously service is top-notch. I am also happy to share that prices are competitive with--or cheaper than--certain big box sports stores. My shoes were 20% less than the big box retailer's price. Rapid Transit also has a great selection of Penn State gear for Nittany Lion fans. Shop local. Shop quality. Shop Rapid Transit. read more

Probably closer to four stars, but the guys working here were so nice and helpful that their friendliness and charm went a long way with me today. We came in looking for deals on some white Penn State gear for next week's white out and was not disappointed in the selection of items available at a very reasonable price. Hats were $28-35 and the hooded sweatshirts were a nice $45. Running shoes (we only checked the prices for comparison) were a little more expensive than the chains, but supporting local businesses could justify the difference in cost. I don't think you'll find Nike and other major brands, but you will find something! read more

Rapid Transit Sportswear - Sporting Goods Near Me - State College, Pennsylvania

See all

With a great selection and helpful employees, Rapid Transit Sportswear is a great place to stop in for your sports needs. I was looking for the latest version of the New Balance running shoes I owned and needed some assistance. The employee was tentative and patient as we went through the options and answered all my questions along the way. The process took about twenty minutes as tried on shoes. I appreciated the time spent because I wanted to find the right pair and didn't feel rushed. I was informed that if I didn't like the colors, they could have them shipped into the store - a nice option to have. I also appreciated that I could bring the shoes back if they weren't right for me. There's some good running energy snacks, clothing, and more. Highly recommend and will be coming back! read more

The service is always great at Rapid transit! The salesmen are very helpful and good at finding the best shoe for my needs!

These folks are simply the best shoe fitters around, and they quickly identify problems that can be addressed with proper shoes. The first time I walked in there about five years ago, the owner studied my gait and gave me a better description of the problems I was having then the orthopedic doctor I was seeing. With proper shoes on and socks, my foot problems are pretty much gone. As a 60+-year-old runner, that's saying a lot! They offer a tremendous and fairly priced selection of sport shoes. I would not go anywhere else in the country to buy shoes for athletics. They are doing an excellent job with COVID care too. They'll take care of business over the phone, in person, etc. read more

Well it's kind of a blast from the past. Quality footwear , excellent selection of the hard to find sizes should be more than enough , right ? This place adds attentive knowledgeable staff that get this are also friendly. I have bought my last twi pairs of sneakers there and now can't see me going anywhere else. They take the time to measure and made recommendations that were spot on. The staff was hustling on a Saturday morning and you didn't feel rushed. You get great service and get back on your journey in no time. Thanks! read more

The employees here are phenomenal! I recently started running & desperately needed new shoes. I didn't really know how to find the right pair & the employees that helped me were so helpful. I ran in the pair I bought for about a week & they weren't feeling right. So I called & they told me to come back in & try another. They talked through the foot discomfort I was feeling in the new shoes & problem solved the issue. They got me another pair - no charge for returning/exchanging. The employees even talked through my training, mileage, other gear, etc. & had helpful tips to improve my training while they were fitting me. Would recommend this place for anyone looking to outfit their running needs in State College! read more

Rapid Transit was amazing! I have extremely flat feet and was having extreme arch pain while walking around campus all day. The salesman figured out that wearing a wide shoe would help with it. I've been to many shoe fittings and no one has ever recommended wide shoes since I have generally narrow feet. However it's been just over 2 weeks since I got the shoes and they are incredible. I haven't had any arch pain and i've never walked so steadily in my life. Definitely go here! read more

Rapid Transit is the ONLY place you should purchase running shoes! Their knowlege of fitting shoes is only paralled by the level of attention given to their customers! Even though I my wife and I may only stop in once or twice a year, since we live almost an hour away, they remember us each time and make us feel welcome regardless of our status level of running! read more

Simply one of the best businesses, period. The customer service is unparalleled. If you are in the market for athletic sneakers in particular, the staff at RT will fit you, find the perfect shoe, and send you home with a satisfaction guarantee. This really is a magnificent store, full of equipment and good spirit. Absolutely the best customer service; you just don't see this in many athletic stores. And they appreciate that athletes come in all shapes and sizes--And walks of life, and ages. No snide treatment of casual runners here. I can't say enough about this business, and the fact that it has survived in State College for something like 2000 years testifies to this as well. read more

Love being able to go to a place where they have all the necessary shoes and knowledge to fit anyone to the right running shoe or cleat. Bill hooked me up with a nice pair of Saucony shoes that will last me a long time. Their employees know the products they're selling as well as information about strike patterns and form. Recommend 100% to anyone looking to have less pain or have a shoe that fits them the right way read more

I have bought several pairs of running shoes here. The reason I come into the store is the personal service you get from Terry and the other associates as they don't just want to sell you a pair of shoes, they want you to get a pair of shoes that fit and are best for your personal stride and activities. They asked me a few questions about my habits band what I wanted in a shoe, then grabbed a few that fit that description. Then I put a pair on and went out into the alley to run a bit down and back so they could observe my pronation and stride to get me into the best shoe for me. I did this for the second pair as well and then I decided on one. You don't get this service online or even at a larger box store. I have bought my last 3 pair for them and I won't go anywhere else now. read more

I have gotten three pairs of athletic shoes at Rapid Transit. The salesmen's guidance helped me get stronger and avoid injury during a 60-pound weight loss. They will ask you about what types of activity you are doing and your activity level, and they will evaluate you for over- or underpronation, high/low arches, etc. They will also take the time to pull out a range of brands, sizes, and widths to best accommodate your feet. The experience is great, and the staff is fantastically knowledgeable. As for the shoes being more expensive than other stores or online, I did not have this experience. Just out of curiosity, I looked up my past two pairs of shoes online after I bought them at Rapid Transit and could not find them for cheaper. read more

This place literally changed my life...I credit them with saving me from what would have probably been a future of knee replacement surgery for actually fitting me with proper running shoes. The first time I went in I think they were slightly appalled at what I had been running in for years (crappy shoes from whatever sporting goods stores in the "running shoe" section). They were super helpful, explained everything to me about the shoe, and let me run in them until I found the right pair. Now I just go in and pick up a new pair of the same shoe every few months. They usually give students a discount, which I like. You do pay a little more, but you get good service and good shoes, and you're buying local which is always a plus. So today I'm was out of sports bras (I have to do laundry really bad) but wanted to go to the gym this morning so I swung by Rapid Transit on my way for a new one (in light of sounding ridiculously bourgeois, I needed a new one anyway). I stood in front of the huge rack slightly overwhelmed and a man came up behind me, asked me what size I needed (at least he didn't try and gauge for himself) and literally picked three out for me to try on. Ok. It cut my indecision to a third and got me out of the store in 10 minutes instead of my usual 90 minutes. So that $10 extra bucks I could've saved on a cheaper one at Ross or Macys, I saved in time, gas, and much better quality (they have Under Armour which is the only line that actually holds your sh** in place!). I would never shop at a sporting goods chain again so long as this store is still around. read more

Good experience. I have been wanting to get back into running but needed some good shoes. Usually I do the zappos thing or go to a big box store for running shoes but I decided to go to the specialists and have them analyze my running and so forth. Well, I must have gone at a good time or something because there was someone available right away. He gave me several options, analyzed my current shoes, and had me walk around the store as well as jog down the street. Seemed knowledgeable enough and definitely helpful. He took plenty of time with me...no rush whatsoever. Fun to talk to. I figured with that level of service the actual shoes would be really expensive. I was wrong, though. The price was very much the same as you would find in other locations like big box stores or online. Maybe even better. I asked about the price of several pair and was surprized each time that they were so reasonable. This is a good place to buy shoes. There are probably places around with people that are even more knowledgeable about shoes and maybe with better areas to run in, but here you get good service and lots of it in a nice environment and it's convenient. I would recommend it to anyone. They had lots of other stuff too (clothes and equipment) but I didn't really get into it much because I was just there for shoes. Recommended. read more

Incredible service from a very knowledgeable staff! The staff takes their time with each customer, ensuring that they're getting the right shoe for their feet and walking/running style. I have friends who have gone in from out of town, got fitted for shoes, and continue to have their sneakers shipped to them from the store on a regular basis! You will love them as much as their fans when you give them a try. read more

I'm fan but it's not as good as it gets. They have a lot of good stuff, but the store is crowded. if you are not exactly into PSU sports, they have too much PSU sports and not enough unbranded athletic cloths, but they must do well on football weekends, all 6 of them. Their shoe selection and knowledge is very good, but you have almost to ask to see the basement, which is crammed with other sports stuff, like soccer and lacrosse. It's always somewhat of a challenge to park near them, but almost always doable. So, I'm a fan, often end up at Dicks, feel sick, and come here, and feel better. Can confirm they are friendly, and can confirm prices are a little higher, but they have helped solve numerous problems, so an extra $3 for socks, that I can afford, and, given the money-value-of-time, cannot buy them online cheaper if you factor in my time (or Simon's I suspect). We go back and should go back more often. read more

Rapid Transit is the best place to go for sporting equipment of any kind, but where they really shine is their shoe fittings! The employees are brilliant at finding you the right style, size, and shape of shoe, whether that be running shoes or hiking boots. I have somewhat flat and wide feet, and all other stores that I have gone to didn't have anything that was comfortable for me. But after just a half an hour in Rapid Transit I was outfitted with an amazing pair of hiking boots for a reasonable price. The man who fit me, named Matt, could tell just from watching me walk that I needed a different width of shoe. He also explained the pros and cons of different styles. I hate wool which means I used to hike in crappy socks, but he found me a synthetic pair that isn't itchy and is still good for my feet. They let me put the socks on in the store to try the boots with to get the right fit, which was super helpful! Not only are the employees knowledgeable, but they take a genuine interest in their community. They love hearing about the athletes at the local high school and are super encouraging, and give great advice for everyone from new athletes to people with joint issues. Rapid Transit is by far the best place to buy athletic equipment in the area. read more

I love this place. Awesome service! Finally broke down and bought a decent pair of running shoes there after dealing with the morons @ Dicks and the Mall. Yeah I paid a little more, but it was worth it to talk to someone who knew what was up. Would rather keep the money local anyway. read more

The staff is super helpful about getting you into a shoe that fits your foot. I had been having problems with plantar fasciitis and they examined how I walk, how wide my feet were, what kind of arches I had and chose two models for me to try. Their selection is phenomenal (and I have wide and big feet!) and after trying on about 4 pair, I was able to find ones that for perfectly for my foot shape. My pain went away and I simply go back in every 3-4 months for another pair of the same shoe and I have had no foot problems since my first visit. They are amazing and I wouldn't chance my feet to any other store. read more

I shopped at RTS for the first time yesterday (newbie to town). I desperately needed new running shoes, and was referred by a coworker. I was greeted in the first 10 seconds, and upon explanation of why I was there, I knew I was in good hands. The salesman had me try on multiple pairs of shoes, examined my stride, and fit me into the perfect pair of running shoes. We even took multiple trips out to the alleyway so I could test them properly. The owner introduced himself and was very kind throughout my entire visit; walking me around the store and showing me the different sections. I was treated like family. I left the store very happy with my purchases and feeling like I got an entire experience instead of just shopping. I WILL be going back to RTS and referring all of my family and friends. read more

I am not at State College on a full time basis but wait to get there to purchase my sneakers. Incredible employee experience with attention to detail. Very positive experience at Rapid Transit where they are at the top of their game. Bob the Bike Guy read more

Extremely helpful employees. As a dude, I appreciate that its basically the only place downtown to get clothes that aren't covered in Penn State logos. read more

A friend, who is an athletic trainer, recommended that I visit Rapid Transit to find some shoes that would help my bunion and plantar fasciitis foot problem. I decided to do that and went in early in the morning in case it was crowded. I had read the glowing reviews, but I wondered if my trip would yield the same results. I'm glad to say it did. Terry helped me and I was amazed at what he could tell from just looking at the shoes I wore into the store. He was extremely knowledgeable about foot anatomy and the proper fit of shoes. After watching me walk, he had me try on 6 to 8 different pairs of shoes. I ended up buying the two pairs that fit me the best. Price was what I expected--comparable to Zappos or Dick's. I was very impressed with my visit which lasted about 45 minutes and I felt very good that I, as an older lady who only walks for weight control, was treated with the same attention and courtesy as an elite athlete. Will be returning to Rapid Transit the next time I need shoes. An added bonus--a lot of PSU sports talk. read more

Excellent experience. I had to purchase some comfortable shoes for the Penn State Dance MaraTHON and, after reading all of the great reviews online, decided to check this place out. Right when I walked in the staff came up to me and asked if they could help with anything. I told them about my need for something comfortable and they immediately brought me out 3 different shoes. The guy that helped me was extremely knowledgable about both the shoes and the anatomy behind walking/running. He had me try on each one, walk around a little, and then grabbed different shoes that matched what I needed. I was in and out in 10 minutes with what is probably the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn or will wear. They even gave me a 10% discount since I mentioned that I needed the shoes for THON! The store also has a wide variety of sportswear and equipment, if a little pricey, and a dressing room to try stuff on. I definitely recommend this place to anyone who wants a pair of shoes that are tailored to your style. Never going to Dick's again... read more

This place blew me away! I went in looking for what I thought were really obscure items (little kids' swim caps, goggles, and swim suits, in December) Husband had suggested I try them before resorting to Amazon. There were 5 or 6 people working and they all seemed happy to be there and happy to help. They had everything I was looking for, several choices actually, and helped me choose the right one for my kids' needs. They were even nice to my toddler. I love that it's not a huge mega store and you don't have to walk a half mile from one end to the other to get everything on your list. I went back later after the only other store open on a Sunday was too expensive for what I wanted and bought some PSU sportswear for my son. Bottom line: great selection and super friendly, knowledgeable service. A+! read more

I only buy racquetball gear from here but the prices are better than any online shop. If you're looking to buy any racquet sport equipment definitely check out rapid transit. read more

Forget about going to Modell's, Dick's or some other corporate entity, Rapid Transit is the best place in the area to get suited up for any type of physical activity imaginable. Aside from having equipment for even the most unrecognizable of sports, the customer service and knowledge here is incredible. I have gotten my last two pairs of running shoes here and when I was testing them out, I felt like one of those people in a Gatorade commercial with all of the tubes and monitors attached to my body while surrounded by people in white lab coats jotting down observations. Okay, maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration, but still, they know what they are doing here. I felt a bit silly running up and down the alley with an employee watching my every step, but after purchasing the best running shoes I have ever had, I was glad that I looked like a goof running up and down Calder Way in a business casual outfit with a pair of New Balances on my feet. Go here and you will feel like you could do a marathon in record breaking time, great place. I might even drive three hours just to get another pair once my current NBs give out. read more

The staff is willing to take time to find the correct pair of shoes for you. Excellent service and advice.

Super nice people. Helped me pick out a jacket and hat/gloves for my daughter. Could not have been nicer, made a point to get to know me and treat me well. I would highly recommend this locally owned shop. read more

Loved RTS and spent lots of money there for all the family members. It was nice to think that RTS does the work for you in finding the best shoes. That was until I was sold a pair of cleats for my nine year old that were almost as old as him, without disclosing such, and without a clearance sale price (I was given a $5 discount, and stupidly thought it was because we were returning customers.) I emailed the store for an explanation, and never received one. We now do our shoe shopping online and in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia. What a pain! read more

Although I paid full price for the shoes I bought, the level of attention I got from the sales staff was worth it. And they are very knowledgeable about not only the shoes they sell, but also running in the area, both events and places to run. I highly recommend Rapid Transit for anyone who is serious about running. read more

I went here after hearing about how good the customer service was. It was great! I stopped by close to closing and the guy who helped me did not rush at all. He made sure I got the shoes I needed. I never had so much fun trying on shoes. You guys rock! read more

Phenomenal customer service, and great local feel. They spent 20 minutes with me determining what kind of running shoes I needed, bringing out pair after pair. We didn't just try them on and walk around, but the salesman came outside with me to watch me run down the block, carefully watching how my feet and knees reacted to each pair. And after all that, when after running on them several times, they didn't feel right the team exchanged them for a different shoe, no problem. Their knowledge and care to get you outfitted right is fantastic. read more

While I'm not a person who runs a lot, I will never go anywhere else to buy running shoes other than Rapid Transit! I was having issues of my feet going numb while running, I was wearing the wrong shoes for me and the staff at Rapid Transit go me in to the right pair! I like that the allow you to try many pairs of shoes on and run in the alley so you have a pretty good idea of what type of shoe you're getting, and the best part is if you find you don't like them once you get them home you can return them within 14 days! My feet have never felt better after running, the pair they put me in have me feeling like I'm running on clouds! read more

First time in yesterday afternoon and will only be purchasing running shoes from Rapid Transit from here on out. It was pretty busy when we got there, but both myself and my boyfriend had one on one attention from two very knowledgable employees. Brock helped me and was extremely personable, patient and helpful. I had been wearing the same pair of Nikes for 2 years and had little knowledge of what shoe I wanted. He brought out probably 8-10 pairs of shoes for me to try on over the course of 30 minutes. They allow you to go run in the alley by the store to really get a feel for the shoes and that is really really great. Shoes have a very different feel from walking to running. I ended up with a pair of shoes that completely conform to my foot and I can barely tell I am wearing. They feel wonderful and I am so excited to run in them! Huge shoutout and thanks to Rapid Transit and Brock for your wealth of knowledge on shoes, your friendliness, patience and overall exceptional service! read more

Rapid Transit is the best place to get your running shoes! The store was busy but definitely worth the wait. The staff is very knowledgeable and super helpful. The gentleman that helped me was patient and took his time he even watched me run in the back alley to see my stride.I tried on multiple pairs of shoes. I never felt like I was being rushed at all. I feel like I got a great pair of shoes that fit my feet perfectly! Thank you I will definitely be back! read more

Absolutely the BEST customer service! The staff is extremely knowledgeable, and go out of their way to help you find the right fit. The store opens early (7:30 AM) and closes late (9:30 PM). Doesn't get much more convenient! As others have said, I'm okay paying full price in this instance, given the selection and the level of assistance provided by the staff. Thanks, Rapid Transit for another great shopping experience! read more