Wow! What a wonderful experience. My boyfriend and I are newer runners and we decided it was time to get shoes that meant business but didnt know where to start. A lot of our powerlifting friends reccommended this place. We were a little wary but it was professional, down to earth, super knowledgeable guys who were excited to talk about running, life, and everything in between! We both left with a pair of sneakers and running socks after also getting professional gait analysis and testing all our shoes on the track area. We will be checking out some of their group events as things get warmer! What a gem! read more

Had an amazing experience shopping for my first pair of running shoes at this store! The staff was extremely helpful and spent a lot of time with me while I tried out various pairs of shoes. They also have a running track where you can do a quick sprint to check if the running shoes fit appropriately! The store also offers a wide selection of gels and gummies that can be used during long runs. Not only do they have a vast selection of shoes, their prices are also very reasonable, especially for name brand and high quality running shoes. Thanks again Rhode Runner staff for the awesome experience! read more

Love the vibe, love that relaxed atmosphere. I love that they know their shoes....I was interested in a pair of trail shoes that you can't find everywhere and they did not disappoint. I'm a new customer and a big fan. read more

This is a fabulous store, with an absolute horror show of a parking lot (which requires backing out onto busy North Main Street). I'm definitely not a runner and neither is my husband, but if we're looking for quality sneakers that we know will actually fit, this is the place we buy them. Each member of the staff asks questions, listens, and will both measure your feet and watch as you walk on the track for them to observe your gait and the kind of support you'll want in a shoe. There's a modest clothing selection, geared of course toward what's beneficial for runners. Some ancillary items like running gels, headlights, etc can also be purchased. While there are generally a small number of items on sale, including occasionally shoes at up to 40% off, be prepared to spend up to $200 for a name brand quality product. read more

Really enjoyed my shoe buying experience at Rhode Runner. The store was recommended by my podiatrist who suggested a particular type of running shoe for my issues with foot pain. I tried on about six or seven pairs with a very helpful salesperson who measured my feet, assessed the fit and asked me to walk a bit in each pair. I found a pair I loved that looked stylish and also fit my podiatrist's recommendations. They were $160, which is more than I have ever spent on sneakers, but after wearing them for several weeks, they have helped greatly reduce my foot pain. I also purchased a pair of Oofos recovery sandals, which at almost $75 are the most expensive sandals I've ever purchased, but they are very comfortable and I'm completely converted to the Oofos brand. The Yelp offer for $20 helped offset the total but although my feet don't hurt as much, my wallet is still recovering. Not to suggest that their prices are unreasonable- prices are similar online- but just a caveat that you should know you'll probably drop a lot of cash here. The personalized service does help justify the cost. read more

Loved that the moment I walked in an employee was there to tend to me. I got my feet measured and she was very quick in picking out shoes that would suit me. The little track is very helpful for testing out the shoes, and they offer student discounts. The shoes that were picked out for me were very affordable too, which I was surprised by because I assumed they would try to pick out the most expensive shoe. She also showed me how to put on the spikes on my shoes so that was helpful. Overall great store! read more

I brought someone here who was shopping for a good running shoe. The parking is a bit limited and difficult, but it's worth it to shop here. Inside you first see a mini running track neatly surrounded by some apparel. The other half of the store is neatly arranged with other accessories and walls of shoes. It's organized and not busy looking. Mary was very helpful and made the shopping experience very simple and pleasant. She asked questions like: What are you looking for? What problems do you find with shoes? What colors do you like/dislike? She then pulled out three different brand options. We walked away with the perfect shoe which has had nothing praises since purchasing day, now a few weeks ago. read more

Patrick was super attentive and kind and helped me find a pair of shoes that is perfect for my needs!

Very helpful and know how to specifically meet my needs; friendly and reasonable prices.

This is what the shoe buying experience should be like. When you're dropping over $150 for shoes, its best to buy it from people that know what they're talking about and will guide you in the right way. The staff have researched every shoe model and will bring out an array of choices based on your body type and walking style. They don't seem to tire no matter the number of shoes you try on. This is different from other stores where you have to request someone to get something from the back and you're left waiting. There's a running track for test runs and regular shopper discounts too. Check this place out before any others. read more

Been logging in the miles in my freshies picked up yet again from Rhode Runner! I seriously love this runners paradise. The staff are all extremely knowledgeable and attentive. There is an in house track for you to trot around on and get a feel for what your feet are looking for. You'll know when you put on the right ones! Ahhhh bliss! Plus, they give you 30 days to put in some miles and make a final determination on if you love the shoes or not. They offer tons of accessories and race day necessities too. I also love that they are active in the running community and put on some of the best races in our state! Why the 4 stars then?! Nike is phasing them out...bummer!! That will definitely create a void on the shelf here. However, there are a plethora of other excellent options to choose from! Cheers! read more

The best experience buying shoes that my husband and I have ever had. I can't remember the name of the young man who waited on us but he was very knowledgeable about every pair we tried on, had suggestions that were super helpful. He wasn't pushy in the least and patiently let us try on several pairs to find just the right shoes for us. And they carry wide widths which we both need. We'll never go back to Yorker after having such a positive experience here! read more

The employees are so friendly and helpful at Rhode Runner and truly want to ensure you find the best fit for your foot! My last time in with Ray was great and I look forward to visiting again! read more

After hating running my entire life, I started trying to run about 6 months ago with whatever shoes I had. But slowly, as I gained more confidence in my feet, I started to consider myself "a runner" and crept into the store. Now, I'm a budget shopping queen - hello, I came here because of a yelp deal. Therefore, it actually took a few trips to get over the sticker shock. When it comes to something I know nothing about, there is no substitute for good old fashioned service. My first trip, I only bought a water bottle and some accessories. Then they told me about a bra fitting event so I came back a week later. The bras ended up being on sale because of the event that day plus I got to use my Yelp Deal, so I got a good deal on it, and the personalized fitting service and recommendations were spot on. Since it was special event, I also got a goodie bag which included a $10 off coupon. Finally, I went to see a guy about some shoes. They analyzed my gait and recommended a few options. They patiently let me try them on and run around the store as much as I wanted to. I was kinda nervous though that none of the shoes had prices listed on them. I chose the pair that felt the best - surprisingly I chose the ones that were not the cutest. Yeah actually they're not cute at all, but they feel good. I used my coupon and they were still the most expensive sneakers I've ever bought but... I guess not any more expensive than a pair of Jordans. Oh, and then when I signed up for their mailing list, I got another $10 coupon. As with many things in life, you get what you pay for. Here you are paying for patience and expertise that as a newbie, I can't get anywhere else. Maybe you'll get lucky like me and get a string of coupons. read more

Very nice people. Very knowledgeable. Really appreciate shopping local. Patrick was a top-notch employee. Everyone in the store helps you through the purchase measures you. I will definitely shop here again. read more

I have been coming here for some time. My daughter needed good sneakers that would go well with her orthotics. Very time, the staff is always knowledgeable and very patient. They have the small track so you can run a little or go outside. I have purchased sneakers for myself and an other daughter. The prices are market and not over priced, but I love the one on one customer service. They don't upsale anything. I myself tried the beginner running group. That was vey interesting because they dont just teach jogging or running. They teach what goes into each, like proper stretching and core muscles. They even mentioned proper clothes. They also offer different items for the community, which they tell you about thu email. I will continue to purchase my family sneaker needs at this store. read more

Rhode Runner - Entrance to the store - Shoe Stores Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Stopped here to pick up a race packet for the Narragansett half and being a runner OF COURSE I had to check put the store. As many runners will tell you our sport is pretty minimal but we can never have enough "gear". Those that live close to this store are lucky indeed. A large and well laid out store with a great variety of clothing shoes and other accessories for all types of runners. New to the sport, no worries, there are lots of friendly sales associates to assist you with finding the perfect fit. Whats great besides the treadmill used to test your gait is the several hundred for track to test your shores out before you plunk down your money. Got a nagging injury or trying to prevent one, no worries, there are numerous remedies and therapies to try. Looking to fuel your run, no worries, customers have the option to purchase a variety of pre,mid, and post run nutritional supplements. Prices are pretty comparable to those I have seen at the bigger sporting goods stores as well as on line. Oh and make sure you check the back of the store for great deals on out of season gear. From the beginner to the more well seasoned runner Rhode Runner is a great place for all your running needs. read more

The workers are always very helpful and they take their time to find the right fit for your needs! They have more than just shoes as well, they have other options that help with endurance and performance. (Socks, much needed body glide and a lot of energy food items) read more

We had a wonderful experience yesterday as we tried to fit my daughter into new running shoes. My daughter is a ballerina and has already been to the podiatrist for issues with her feet so we knew how important this was. Mary greeted us right away and helped my daughter get fitted, she was super helpful, patient and very knowledgeable. We came in to buy spikes but quickly realized that her feet had grown since the last season of track so we knew she would need new training shoes as well. She asked my daughter lots of questions and got to know her history and also had her walk and run on the track. My daughter tried on MANY shoes until she found the ones that were best for her. Throughout the whole process Mary listened to my daughter's comments and brought out different shoe types until my daughter was in her perfect shoes. I was very weary of going to a "specialty" store since I thought it would mean spending more money than at the big box stores; but I was wrong! I have to admit that walking in and not seeing prices on the display shoes was giving me anxiety, but I kept telling myself that the right shoes for my daughter were a necessity no matter the cost. I am very happy with the experience because I know that they were not trying to push the most expensive shoe on my daughter but rather to make sure that she was fitted with the best shoes for her feet. We will definitely be back! read more

If you're in the need for new running shoes, this is the place to go! I came in to get some new running shoes because my beloved Hokas had too many miles on them and Patrick took great care of me to find me a new, comfortable pair of shoes. I had been having some foot pain, so he assessed how I walked and ran in the show room and then pulled out several pairs of shoes that he thought I would like. I ended up getting two new pairs of shoes, both of which feel great after recent runs. Also, Rhode Runner provides a healthcare provider discount which is greatly appreciated since I spend so much time on my feet at work. I will most definitely coming back here when I need some new shoes! read more

GOOD: Great service, the guy who helped me knew exactly what he was talking about! Very personable and knowledgeable. BAD: I asked to run on a treadmill and he had stated it's been broken for a little while. Although he offered to let me run outside, I would have preferred to run on the treadmill inside the store. Great customer service which is hard to come by these days. Will definitely recommend to all family and friends. GIVE THE KID A RAISE!!! read more

Just went for my first run in my new ASICS from Rhode Runner and loving them so far! I'm already pretty socially awkward in shoe stores, so the concept of Rhode Runner is like my worst nightmare. Running down an indoor track with someone scrutinizing my gait? Count me out! But my old running shoes were really wearing out, so I bit the bullet and came in for a fitting. The employee who was helping me determined that I overpronate somewhat and brought out several options with more support than what I had been wearing. I couldn't decide between the Brooks and the ASICS, so the salesman encouraged me to run down the track with one on each foot. The whole process was easy and non-judgmental. For a cheapskate like me, it's scary to be in a store with no prices on anything. But you just have to trust the process and choose the shoe that you like the best. From poring over all the reviews it seems like most of their shoes cost ~$120, and you can easily find $20 in coupons through Yelp / online. Just think of the $100 as an investment in your health & happiness. And they're definitely not pushy--I felt like I could've walked out without buying anything. Like all the other reviewers, I had a great experience at Rhode Runner and will definitely be back for my next pair! read more

I visited Rhode Runner today for the first time, looking for my first running shoe. I was totally thrilled with the personal service that I received from Patrick. He examined my gate, measured my feet, and provided several, perfectly fitting alternatives. Over the course of my first six miles of vigorous walking and jogging, I am thrilled with the pair of shoes that he sold to me. read more

The Hus and I had an amazing experience today at Rhode Runner, and I thought it deserving of that one last star. Here's the update, kids: Simply put, there is no better place to go for running shoes. We happened to be extremely lucky to go there on a day Peter was working - apparently he's not there all the time, so catching him can be tricky. I like to think of Peter as a running shoe sommelier - that's really the only way I can describe him accurately. Has asked us to walk, in our socks, away from and back to him. Then he asked what type of running and/or fitness routine we do. Then he disappeared for a few minutes, and then reappeared with a single box. They were perfect. Perfect width, perfect support, perfect weight. He knew, just by the walking and looking at the shape of each of our feet what type of shoe we needed. Lucky for all of us, Peter helps train the rest of the staff at Rhode Runner, so this expertise is passed throughout the staff. They're also all incredibly kind and really helpful. Rhode Runner also utilized Yelp and has a Yelp Deal running right now, and also a check0in offer, which is pretty sweet. The store itself is a vast improvement of the the old one - huge floor plan, at least five times as big as the old space, with running track to boot. There's a small parking lot on the north side, and plenty of street parking. Their inventory seems slim because the space is so vast, but also because they keep it simple by carrying really quality items - real running equipment, nothing too flashy. All in all, this place is quality and I'll never go anywhere else for my running shoes, ever! read more

Rhode Runner came highly recommended (thanks Rhody Yelpers!), and it did not disappoint. I am not generous with my five-star ratings, but this establishment earned one. The store is small, but it is a treasure chest of running riches. They carry the good stuff and only the good stuff. When I walked in, I was promptly greeted by a staff member, and we got right down to business: I desperately needed a new pair of sneakers. She instructed me to take off my shoes, roll up my pants and walk in a straight line. Not a DUI test, but rather a quick pronation test. I overpronate, which I suspected. She asked if I had any problems, and I mentioned getting chronic shin splints. Yup, my feet are screaming for a stable shoe, she told me. She measured my foot and brought out a pair of Brooks and a pair of Sauconys. She was spot on with the first pair, especially after she taught me the "runner's knot" to remedy my narrow heels slipping in the shoe. Never satisfied though, I wanted to try one more to be sure, so she brought a pair of New Balance. They fit like a sock (or a glove as people sometimes say), and I thought I had found the ones. She suggested putting the New Balance on one foot and the Brooks on the other for a jog on the treadmill. She video-taped me running to see which shoe performed better. The award-winning (Runner's World "Best Update") Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11 won. They kept my foot straight while my ankle clearly wobbled in the New Balance . At $100, I am totally happy with the value of my purchase (which is why I am scoring them in the moderate price range -- even though the prices are high, so is the quality, and they are what you would expect), and I'm overjoyed with my experience at Rhode Runner. I will definately be back in 500-600 miles for my next pair! read more

Feel like you're runnin' on empty? -you need some new kicks, my friend! Take it from me: taking care of your feet is your NUMBER 1 priority when it comes to this paced pastime (otherwise you'll end up like me, with a permanent achilles injury and numerous foot fractures - yow!). Step - prance - lumber - trudge - leap on down to Rhode Runner for proper gear that'll have you leavin' the rest of 'em in your wake! / / ZOOM / / Convenient location on N.Main Street means that there are a few street parking spots and four customer parking spots in a teeeeeny lot "after" the building (when driving North on N.Main). / / ZIP / / A modest storefront. *Some* clothing and running gear options (though I'd rather peruse the sales racks at UnderArmor or REI); shirts and shorts, water bottle belts, stretching aids, muscle "toothbrushes", sockssockssocks. I was impressed by the number of sports bras which were available (and on display) - the busty running comrades know what I'm saying when I say that it can be DIFFICULT to resolve the "bounce factor", so I felt that this was a positive attribute for Rhode Runner. Footwear is mostly New Balance with Asics, Brooks, and Nike scattered about (this suites me just fine since I prefer New Balance....but I know some folks whom INSIST upon a specific brand). / / ZING / / Staff was friendly, but didn't have a clue about minimalist running (when to upgrade footwear, stretch options, injury prevention). My boyfriend had better luck; the gentleman whom assisted him watched his running posture and how his steps fell, then recommended footwear that would best suit his needs as a new runner (mainly: cushion and support). But there was a lot of back-and-forth; first they DIDN'T have the shoe in the right size, then they DID. . . sheesh! I felt winded just listening in! We were informed that there is a 30day policy for use (like 'em? buy them, try them, hate them? - return 'em for store credit!). When all was said and done, the beau decided on a pair of $115 New Balances and the staff brought the box up to the counter for payment (thanks, Yelp, for the $10 off!). Unfortunately, when my excited beau went to take 'em out of the box the next morning, he found (after ALL of that "assistance") the guy had packed up the WRONG SIZE. I'm sure that this doesn't happen often....but it sure is annoying when it DOES happen. The return process was easy, anyway. When I lived in Boston I went to Marathon Sports (excellent), but now the commute (about an hour drive) isn't really all that convenient and I've been sent here by a fellow distance runner. The comparison isn't equivalent, but the service and product is close (Marathon has far more options, but Rhode has an indoor track). So if you're a Rhody roadrunner in need new treads to rid yourself of that spare tire, head here for split-free satisfaction! read more

See all

Great service! I have cranky, wide feet so I need to find good supportive sneaks (as us old-timers call them!). The guy (sorry, don't remember his name) put me in a few pairs and had me walk the track to try them out. Turned out I had to special order some New Balance ones - remember - stupid cranky feet! After a bit of a delay (RR was great about keeping me updated), my comfy shoes arrived and my feet are much less cranky! Will I run a marathon? Hells no! But my feet don't scream at me and that is a WIN! thanks Rhode Runner :-) read more

OK, I have yet to shop here for shoes, but this is the only place in Providence to purchase Clif Shot Bloks, a fortified gummy bear-type thing that I nibble on off stage to help me power through a very exhausting play. I decided to start purchasing this product in bulk so I won't have to hustle over to South Main during weeks of extreme rehearsal madness. I assumed that ordering on line would be the way to go. Running enthusiast and cast mate Brien L. encouraged me to pop in Rhode Runner and ask about a deal before doing so. Boy, am I glad I did! They sold me a full box of my fave flavor, Mountain Berry, for only $30 and change--$8 LESS than anywhere on the web. Though there is no advertised deal for bulk purchase, the friendly staff member was empowered to cut me a discount without any complicated rigmarole of asking around. I'm definitely coming back for work out shoes. With messed up old lady feet, who am I kidding trying to shop at a big box? Getting some guidance and preventing foot pain will be worth any difference in price. If that trip goes well, I'll upgrade to 5 stars. Hooray for shopping local! read more

I recently took up running in the past year and have been to RR several times to pick up my race packets for the 5ks that I've ran. The space is nice, especially the community room that they use for packet pick-ups. Plenty of space in order to avoid crowding. They have lots of running gear to choose from, whether you are an expert or a novice, you can typically find the stuff you need. I've purchased everything from new running shoes to headphones, all designed to make your running experience more comfortable and fun. The staff are friendly, and I didn't feel too pressured to purchase the shoes (although I did end up buying them) that I was trying on. They really take the time to help you find the shoes that are going to work best for your gait and what you wish to accomplish (5ks, 10ks, marathons, etc). The best part is that they have two treadmills and a running strip for you to test out your new kicks on before making the big purchase. Shoes typically run around 100 or more (they only appear to have the top of the line items) but they have a clearance section and run deals on Yelp and other sites to save you money. Their expertise and customer service seem to make up for the high price tag because there is nothing worse then spending money on what ends up being an ill fitting pair of sneakers. It's awesome to have such a cool, *local*, place to buy running gear instead of having to go to one of the usual chains and get mediocre service. read more

Great first experience here! I was in desperate need of a new pair of running shoes and had heard good things about this place, so decided to try it out! When I first arrived, I had a gait-analysis done since I didn't know what "type" of runner I was. The worker that helped me gave me a variety of choices and brands that would work with my running style. She was definitely listening to what I thought of each shoe and giving me useful feedback. I wound up deciding on a pair that I was very pleased with and was even able to use the $10 off yelp coupon which was icing on the cake! The customer service was excellent, could not have been better! Can't want to come back here next time I need a pair of sneakers! read more

My daughter and I had a fabulous experience here. She is a middle school cross country runner and was experiencing some pain due to running in the wrong shoes. Her coach suggested a trip here. I was scared. I was certain I was going to suckered into buying $250 shoes for my 12 year old. I couldn't have been more wrong. The staff was knowledge, helpful, patient and thorough and we walked out of there spending exactly the same money I had spent on the crappy sneaks from kohls she had been wearing. We will definitely be back in the future! read more

So I just went here based on the great Yelp reviews and a unsuccessful i have no idea what I'm doing experience at the mall- and I am sooo happy! The service was excellent they fitted me for a running shoe and its the most comfortable sneaker I've ever owned. You have to check this place out whether you're a runner or not. read more

Ok, so I'm not a runner. I've always hated running. And yet, I've now done 2 5K's in the walking shoes that I bought over a year ago. So, I decided I should probably get some "real" running shoes if I'm really going to try this running thing. The service was great! Measured me, answered my questions about how shoes should fit, watched me walk to analyze my pronation, and I ended up walking out with shoes that are so comfortable, they make me want to put them on and (try to) run! I'll definitely be back for new kicks when these ones start to wear out, and to look through the huge selection of gear they have available, too! read more

I love the Rhode Runner. They get my vote for "Favorite Local Business." They are helpful, have a great return policy and keep track of my purchases. This makes shopping for running shoes easy and less stressful. Don't be fooled by it's size, they have pretty much anything you could need as a runner- from equipment to nutrition. And the service puts those chain sports stores to shame. To shame! read more

I am a new runner, currently working on a Couch to 5K program after never having run before. I decided to visit Rhode Runner on a coworker's recommendation, and I am SO glad I did. Ray worked with me to assess how I stand, walk, and jog and determined that I overpronate when I run. He identified three pairs of shoes that would help correct the issue and had me test each one on the store's indoor track. The attention and expertise Ray provided resulted in me purchasing shoes that are perfect for me. So far, my new Mizunos been complete game-changers for my running. If you're a new runner like me who's hesitant to invest in good running shoes, you will more than get your money's worth by working with the experts at Rhode Runner! read more

Came in here last Friday with my old man to get him a good pair of walking/running shoes. I'd been to "Road Runner" out in Seattle and was looking a for shop that had knowledge staff who could do a GAIT analysis and subsequent shoe options. My sense is this is definitely the best spot in RI/southeastern Mass to get running shoes and work with knowlegdeable staff that will get you in the right footwear. It's not cheap, but well worth it. I look forward to coming back. read more

I've gone to a few of these special running shoe stores. Twice I left with shoes that gave me more problems than I started with... Not the case at Rhode Runner. I felt like the person who helped me really took her time, and made me feel comfortable enough to take mine, in finding the right shoe for both running and agility/plyometrics. Yes, I did a few plyo lunges in the store, and you know what, I'd do it again. I had been having knee pain, and it didn't happen overnight, but since wearing the shoes with better support for a few months I feel an improvement. The only tricky part for hopeless spendthrifts such as myself as you don't find out the price until you're already on board with your new kicks, but you just have to tell yourself to suck it up and invest in your health-- it's worth the money to get in the right pair and alleviate pain / prevent an injury when that is a concern. If you're thinking of getting new running shoes, definitely check it out. read more

This is the place to go for gym shoes, especially if you run like my husband and I do. They will watch how you step/walk and recommend shoes that would be most beneficial. They have a treadmill where you can test your shoes out, too. It's a small store but they have a good selection of running gear, socks, watches, and shoes. Awesome store! read more

I attended a running clinic that was held at my gym and was sponsored by road runners. I am an amature runner and have had issues with injuries that have held me back for years. The staff at Road Runners were very helpful in giving information on proper running technique to avoid injuries. This information is priceless to me! I went to the store and worked with one of the staff to find the right running shoes for me. I have been running without injury for a few months now. I also got some great tips on other running issues. It is awesome to be able to pop in and discuss any issues that come along and also to find out about local events and clinics. I highly reccommend Road Runners and will continue to return for all of my running gear. read more

Fantastic customer service! I went about 2 months ago, looking for a good pair of running shoes. The gentleman who helped me brought out 3 different brands of shoes for me to try out - I ran down the block with each pair and explained what I liked and didn't like about each one. I eventually settled on a pair of Asics (the brand I've been wearing for the past 5 years) I also bought some GU chews - had never tried them before, but one of the women working there recommended it, as well as some flavors that are gentle on your stomach. I will definitely be going back when I need new running gear! read more