Over the last 15 years, I have been to over 20 running shoe stores, throughout Northern NJ and Southern NY. I've wanted running shoes with more stability than fashion. Since I have had Brooks Running shoes for several years, I Googled "Brooks Running Stores New Jersey." Road Runner Sports had the most stores in this area; and their website showed that their Paramus NJ store was closest. I phoned the Road Runner Paramus store in advance to ask who the most "technical" salesman, and was told it was Tom Poland, the Assistant Store Manager. Tom has run competitively since High School, and averages over 10 miles a day. He is extremely knowledgeable about all of the top running shoes, and has listened to many presentations by the manufacturers of those shoes. Just as important, years of competitive long distance running made him familiar with all the common running injuries. I arrived at the store feeling frustrated. My shoes had worn out, causing my knees to become inflamed. Tom only focus was to help me choose two alternate shoes which would probably solve my problem. He did a video recording of my walk on a treadmill, and then repeated it with four other shoes. I then walked for a long time, inside the store, with the best shoes, as Tom watched my gait. We finally decide on two pairs; a good primary and a promising alternate. I had to wait a couple of weeks for my knee inflammation to pass, and then began testing my new shoes on roads. It didn't surprise me that Tom's advice is proving absolutely correct. And, he was A LOT OF FUN to be with! I can not imagine finding a better shoe man in Northern NJ or Southern NY. Not even ONE in Tom's league! IF you are considering another store, please go see Tom first for the best results. Bob Pearson read more

First things first, I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT RUNNING!!! I signed up to do a run for charity and needed to start training. I went to Road Runner Sports because I happened to be in the area. From the moment I walked in, the entire staff was courteous and willing to help. Since I knew nothing about my running style, they put me on the shoe dog. They measured my balance, impact, and arches while running on a treadmill. This allowed them to custom cut insoles for the shoes based on my individual needs. While some other reviewers complain about the custom insoles that are fitted from the shoe dog, I can say I noticed a major difference after adding them in the shoes I settled on. To me, well worth the additional monies paid. Other reviewers have also complained about their VIP service. It's only $20.00 per year, they give you a $10.00 coupon back right away, and it allows you to keep the shoes for 90 days before you have to return them. To me, that's a great deal. Between the $10.00 coupon, and the 10% off I received for being a VIP member, I got the $20.00 back I paid to be a VIP member. Maybe someone who is more knowledgeable about running will find all of these services to be a waste, but for someone who is a running novice, I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I will definitely be using Road Runner Sports in the future! read more

I was never in a Road Runner Sports store before last week. My experience from start to finish was fantastic. My salesperson was very attentive even thought the store was packed and kept bringing me different types of sneakers until I found a pair that were really comfortable. I also bought custom insoles which feel great. I became a VIP member. so I could receive the discount and 90 day guarantee. Fast forward to week two. I went back to the store to return my sneakers after I wore them. It was never explained that I could only exchange them or get store credit. The person behind the counter called the manager over and explained the situation..NO PROBLEM! I was refunded. I saw online that the insoles came in a more cushioned variety and I wanted to exchange those..NO PROLEM! I ended up buying a second pair because they were so comfortable. The service and attitude of the employees and the manager were awesome. I'm glad I found the store and I'll return for all my running/work out needs, as well as for more insoles! read more

I recently went to Road Runners Sports in Paramus, NJ. for shoes. I was assisted by Lyle. His service was excellent! He had me step on a machine which gave him information about my feet. I learned I have a high right arch. He then brought out shoes which would be best for my feet. He watched how I walked, and asked questions that enabled him to make suggestions. I tried on a number of pairs until I found the right one. He was patient and helpful. He then suggested it may be helpful to get a custom fit insole to enhance the comfort. It was well worth it. I wanted to get a second pair, but only one was in stock. He made the order for me after enrolling me in the VIP rewards discount program. I got a discount on the order. I then got an email notifying me that I had earned rewards cash, which I then redeemed. A great program! It was my first time at the store, and Lyle made it a very positive experience. I will definitely return! read more

This review is mainly in regard to sales associate Sarah. This was only the second time I visited this store, and she helped me both times. Sarah is very knowledgeable regarding different running sneakers but more importantly goes above and beyond what is necessary to make sure the customer is satisfied. Today, when it was determined that my favorite Brooks running shoes were discontinued, rather than attempt to sell me the newest, more expensive style, Sarah spent the time searching the RR website for my size and color preference. Not only was she able to find the last pair, she included free shipping to my house. It is service like this that goes a long way in determining where I shop, and sadly, all to rare nowadays. As far as the rest of the store it is clean, well stocked and the rest of the staff seemed friendly as well. But I would not be writing this review if it wasn't for Sarah. read more

I will begin by stating that I never go online to write reviews. I have made an exception in this case because the experience was great. This was our first time at the store and Sarah took care of me and my husband. Sarah was professional. She explained everything and was very patient with us. RSS has a great concept with the Shoedog. We could not believe how all these year we had been buying the wrong size sneakers. We both came out of there buying several pairs of sneakers. The only issue I had is that after joining the VP club you get a booklet that contains some coupons. I did not look in the booklet they provided me until after I got home. It would have been nice to have been told about the coupons up front so I could have used them with this transaction which was a few hundred dollars. read more

This place was amazing. They had fast service and i was immediately helped. Derek helped us. He was very patient and explained everything to me and my dad very clearly. I come from a long line of feet problems, so I needed a good, strong, supportive pair of shoes. he told me things about my feet that I never even knew before. When we were finally ready to pick out a shoe, I knew this was going to be the worst part. I am very picky and like my shoes to be supportive but fashionable. Derek picked a shoe off the rack that I thought was ok, but when I tried them on, I really liked them. This was the first time ever that I only tried on one pair of shoes. Derek was so patient, and If you're looking for a good pair of shoes, I totally recommend going here. It is such a welcoming and helpful place. read more

Went in to learn about running and find the perfect shoes for me. I go in and I meet Rich, who helped me through the Fit Zone and walked me through my preferences. He explained everything very detailed and simple enough so I can understand everything about running shoes. He then brought out a chorus line of shoes of all shapes and sizes to narrow down the selection so that we can find the best shoes for me. It was the best shopping experience I can ask for, and the best one I have had in years. Thanks to Rich I am going to definitely come back for all my running/ walking needs. I can promise you I am going to recommend to everyone I know that needs anything for running/walking to go to this store and ask for Rich. 10 out of 5 stars for Rich!!! read more

I have been shopping at RRS and attending its theme parties for 10 years. Laura never disappoints! Tonight I attended one of three Holiday Happy Hour parties. I received a RRS mug and was given a raffle ticket for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree! I was welcomed into the store and helped by Anthony. Janice showed me a new, awesome vibrating foam roller that pro athletes are using to aid their recovery. Kyle assisted me at checkout. I love coming back to this store any time I need socks, new sneakers, or apparel. You receive service with a smile, and there's always a good deal, especially if you're a VIP! It's like Disney World for runners! At tonight's event, I purchased my first pair of Brooks. I can't wait for the next event! read more

I was in desperate need of some new work shoes. I typically would buy generic Nike's. However, Brendan helped me realize my specific needs. For someone who has a very active lifestyle, on my feet 14 hours a day, I needed something specific to me. Brendan helped me try a few different models that would better cater to my needs than the average Nike. The custom insoles and my new Brooks running shoes couldn't possibly be any more comfortable. I will admit the process can take some time. I was there for maybe a little over an hour on an early Tuesday afternoon. However, if you have the time and the desire to invest in your "foot health" (for lack of better wording), look no further than this place. Ask for Brendan too! read more

Paramus store off of Route 4 - I went for a diagnostic test of my feet to have custom inserts made. The store was pretty busy but we were quickly greeted by Lyle. There was a short wait for the diagnostic testing but he took the opportunity to start asking questions to better assess what I needed. He was extremely knowledgeable, funny but professional. I was quite picky about which sneakers I would want, if any. He was patient and accommodating- not pushy or pressing for sales. It was a seamless process and I wound up buying not only the inserts but new sneakers along with 3 packs of their special socks. I would recommend these custom inserts to everyone along with referring them directly to Lyle. read more

I highly recommend the the 705 Paramus location. As a former sales rep of a sell phone company I can truly say the staff at this location care about the customer's concerns & experience than making an empty sale. I went to the store yesterday as my feet have been chronically giving me issues. The representative assigned to help me was Patrick. He not only listened to the concerns I had but was extremely professional and knowledgeable about issues concerning my extreme degree of being flat footed. He could have easily sold me into a shoe that felt better than what I had but, he recommended seeing a Podiatrist which in turn will be a huge step in the right direction to improving my quality in life. read more

I went to the Paramus store today to make sure I bought the correct sneakers the day before. I was helped by Joe who was amazing! He asked me what I would be using the sneakers for, took a video of my walk and explained what it showed, suggested a different pair of sneakers and explained why, was extremely patient with all of my questions and walking around the store, fitted me with insoles, explained to me why I should untie my laces before taking off my shoes :) and showed me how to tie the runners loop. He was knowledgable, pleasant and patient. I would definitely recommend my family and friends to ask for him when they go to get sneakers from Road Runner Sports. read more

Had a GREAT experience at this store! Just purchased the best running shoes I've ever had thanks to Jhenelle, a very patient, knowledgeable, and friendly sales associate. I was in a hurry and didn't have time to use the "shoe dog", but she watched me walk a few paces, asked a few questions, and listened carefully to what I was looking for. After bringing out at least 5 different pairs of shoes, I was fitted with the most comfortable pair of Brooks and my feet have never been happier! The store was busy but Jhenelle was able to juggle multiple customers at the same time and provided great service. I've already seen improvement in my running. Thanks Jhenelle!! read more

My daughter and I went to Road Runner Sports for the first time to purchase walking/running sneakers. Joe Fernandez was assigned to help us find the right sneaker and fit. Both my daughter and I have a very difficult time finding sneakers that fit us correctly due to size and in my case, a medical condition. Joe was EXTREMELY patient, knowledgeable, personable, and an absolute pleasure to work with. We never felt rushed or pressured into a sale, and he helped us find the right sneakers and inserts for our comfort and use. We both would make the trip back to Road Runner Sports in Paramus, NJ because of the great shopping experience provided by Joe. read more

Lyle helped my daughter and I from start to finish. He spoke to both of us and made sure that I understood since I am not a runner the different styles that would be best for my daughter. He was very knowledgeable and took his time helping us. He also discovered that when we originally signed up for our VIP membership it was not set up correctly and so we never received any information regarding specials or coupons. He gave us an additional 10% off for the mistake! I highly recommend this store. We also have 90 days in case we have any issues with the sneakers and if hey end up not meeting our expectations. read more

Running, gait, stance all can be complex and in all honesty it's about trial and error. I just bought my 3rd pair of shoes and was given great feedback and analysis by employee Diana. We went back and forth I'm discussion about what would be a perfect fit and ended up doing just that. She took her time helping me as I came in close to closing time. I was given her undivided attention and was super personable. I can safely say, this location has a great staff and even when busy they make sure you get that quality one on one time. Thank you again Ms. Diana and to the entire staff. Edward J. Morales read more

Met with Lyle who was very knowledgeable regarding what type of running shoe both my wife and I needed. Based on our feedback Lyle recommended a variety of styles from which we made a selection. We felt very welcome and well taken care of by Lyle who did a great job in educating us in what to look for when buying running shoes. We also both made custom orthodics with our purchases. Would definitely recommend a visit to a specialized running shoe store like this because you will gain a lot of information related to what your feet need. Great job Lyle ! read more

Been shopping at the Paramus store for quite a while, always found the people great. For the last 4 months been suffering with Plantar Fascia and other problems with first my right foot then the left. Pain was so extreme at time s I could not fall asleep. Beth recommended a pair of cushioned insoles. Gave it a try, unbelievable, the pain decreased after one day and has been steadily improving. Went back and purchased a pair for all my shoes. Could not believe such a easy fix. These people know their jobs. Highly recommend you give them a try. read more