It was picking up my number and such for a 5k that made me finally swing by The Runner's Den. Having an excuse to walk around the store and check out the wares, the end result was that it was okay, but still made me miss other running stores I had come to love and adore. Some of the perks? ** When I was finally able to get the attention of an employee to try on some Five Fingers, he was super nice and knowledgeable. We shared running stories and talked about techniques and workshops available through the store. ** They have group runs as well as classes on form and technique that are free. Considering I run like a buffoon, this may do me some good. Some of the not so good? ** Parking is atrocious. Luckily my little car fit into a spot on the side that requires tetris-esque skill to get in and out of. ** Staff was pretty hard to find. Not sure if they're always that busy or just were because people were picking up race packs, but it took nearly 20 minutes to get someone's attention. ** Neither the running shoe or even the brand I wear seemed to be available. It will probably be a good place to pick up the little things like goo, a new visor or running shirt, socks, etc... but not sure it will be my first choice for anything major, like a new pair of shoes. read more

A year ago, when I was training for my first half-marathon, the PF Chang's one, this was my go-to place. Yes, it helped that they live just a 5-minute drive away from me, but everyone was really nice. I never got the sense that anyone was trying to talk me into spending more money. Part of that attitude probably has to do with the fact that they don't get paid for commission. But unlike a Foot Locker or some other mall store, the employees look like they actually run themselves. And they are incredibly patient. I'm bummed that the brand of shoes that works best for me, they don't sell. But they still help me whenever I come in and I buy all my other things from them like socks, Gu, etc. The people were pretty supportive in trying to give me advice last year when I had very bad shin splints and I wasn't there to buy anything. One salesman adjusted my shoes for me by putting the insoles of my old pair inside for extra cushioning. It seemed to do the trick. It's definitely a place where you are rarely steered wrong. read more

What can I say that my fellow yelpers haven't said already. Amazing service, and a great selection! The associates who helped my friend and I took a great deal of time getting to know us, and what we were looking for. They observed our walk, and hand picked shoes for our unique feet. They pointed out weakness in my arches that I hadn't noticed until they gave me a shoe with the proper support. They have a good shoe selection that was modestly priced, and a wide array of apparel for the avid walker or hiker. I know how hard it is for larger chested women to find sports bras with the right amount of support, and this place has them in spades. This place really cares about the customer experience, I'll definitely be back. read more

Heard great things about this place from family and friends. I was in need of some great walking shoes for a month long trip out of the states and Ashton was tremendously helpful in choosing the right shoe to accommodate my needs. When we finally found a shoe that worked, I noticed that my left foot kept slipping out of the shoe. Ashton showed me a few different ways to tie the shoe to help stabilize my foot better and it actually worked. I was very impressed. I had planned on only coming in for 1 pair of walking shoes, but I left with a pair of Oofos flip flops which were life changing for me. I wear flip flops every day and they were so comfortable. Very happy with this place. read more

These guys are good -- very good -- at what they do. Can you save a few bucks by shopping somewhere else? yeah, sure. But you won't find this kind of advice at a 'big box' store or online. I've run a couple of full marathons and they were very helpful with not only shoe selection but other running gear too. You won't find a better runner's shop anywhere. read more

I bought my first pair of running shoes here. I was just as ignorant as the next person who has never bought customized shoes before.. I went in there wearing what I thought was an acceptable pair of running shoes.. and boy was I wrong. The guy who helped me had me walk for him, and run for him, in my old shoes, and then gave me 3 different pairs to try on.. From there, I found what felt the most comfortable, and my feet have been happy ever since. Other than shoes, they also have fashion sports apparel and sportswear under garments. These folks know what they are doing, and are very easy to deal with. Give them a shot! read more

Ok... Let me lay it out straight first... I can't justify spending the money on running shoes that I would spend to get shoes here... However, I will admit, having no clue what kind of shoes I needed I went in to gain some pointers. Knowing full well that I was not going to purchase anything, the staff here..especially one particularly handsome gent..was more than willing to help me try on a variety of shoes to see what was best for my feet and activity style. This was exceptionally impressive for me. If I knew that I was going to commit to running long enough to spend the money at Runner's Den then I Definitely would be back to this neighborhood staple. Their customer service and know how has won me over! read more

Prior distance runner who went through a major injury. I recently got an ankle brace that allows me to get back to running, but requires that I wear an extra wide shoe and forces me to buy different sizes for each foot. I've purchased a couple of pairs of running shoes here in the past, so when I needed to find trail runners to fit said brace, this is the first place I went. I explained my predicament to the sales guy, and considering I had a tall order, I told him I didn't care what they looked like, what brand, if they were even two different shoes, etc. I just cared that they fit. He went to the back, then came back out empty handed and walked right by me to another area of the store without saying a word. He came back with a card for another store and told me to go there. He didn't bring out a thing for me to try on or even attempt to help. Super disappointing experience. read more

very knowledgeable, professional and helpful. I've never been to a place where the salesperson actually observes you walking to determine what type of shoe will best suit you... intriguing to say the least. anytime i am in the phoenix area in need of some running gear i will definitely stop here.. they really seem to know what they're doing. oh and they have a pretty good selection. now if you're looking for foot locker flash... stick to the foot locker ..its not that type of place. its geared for actual runners..wonderful. read more

On June 13th, I realized I needed to get some new running/walking shoes since I was having problems with nail loss, blistering due to poorly fitting shoes, and plantar fasciitis. Everyone I know of has recommended Runner's Den. So, I took my son with me and we went down there to see what they could do for me. Ashton Gill was the young man who helped me out and WOW what a difference. As soon as I put on my shoes in the store, I knew I was going to purchase them. What a difference in my exercise ability. I no longer have pain in the heel due to plantar fasciitis, my toes have enough room to move, and I no longer get blisters. Ashton had me walk back and forth several times both inside and outside the store to make sure my gait fit the shoe he was recommending. The only drawback is that there are not that many parking spaces, but all around an excellent experience. I will most definitely send more people to that store. AND they give a military discount. read more

I cannot rave enough about the customer service and knowledge at runners den. I went in only knowing I needed better running shoes because of pain in my knees and lower back . They took an hour And a half with me never once being frustrated or bothered by the continued matching of the best shoe. My first day running in them was a huge difference and I thank them for caring enough to take as much time as needed read more

Runner's Den, everyone said, when I started having problems standing at my PT retirement job after 20+ years at a desk. Runner's Den-you have to go there, they all said. What?? Runner's Den? C'mon, they'll look at me and instantly know that if I ran 10 feet I'd keel over dead, and they'll smirk at me. I'm old and woefully out of shape. Nope. Positively great service, took my concerns seriously and really helped me find shoes to make the newest part of my life work. I mean, this last time, I think she tried over 10 pr. of shoes on me. They watch you walk in socks and in each pair of shoes to see what your foot is doing and listen, they know their stuff. But they don't preach or patronize, they just engage you in a helpful conversation about what's going on with your feet. They're not a bargain basement place, so you should know you'll spend some money, but to me, it's worth it to have feet that don't ache when I'm standing on concrete floors. Look, I'll never be a runner, but now, thanks to Runner's Den, I don't have sore feet!! read more

I was on a work trip with a very short layover. Coming from the cold Northeast, I was super excited about getting out for a long trail run in the Arizona hot afternoon. That seemed to come to an end when I realized that I had only brought my running shoes with me, but nothing else. In a big rush, I searched google maps for a running shop that was close to a good set of trails. These guys hooked me up quick, with everything that I needed to hit the trails as if there was no setback at all. Super grateful to them!! read more

Like everyone said, this store has attentive staff who takes the time to fit your feet with the right shoe. They looked moderately busy when we walked in, but a man greeted us and asked us to be patient. Someone got to us within a couple of minutes and helped both my friend and me at the same time. The entire process was maybe 20 minutes. He gave us great advice about starting to run, too. We then waited a couple minutes at the counter to be run up, but it seemed like they were busier than usual, so it wasn't a huge annoyance. Don't walk in thinking you'll be looking at stylish Nikes or anything, but you will get great service and shoes that are properly priced. read more

I am walking in the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer walk in November. After getting way too much heat for walking in my cheap sketchers I decided I needed a better pair of shoes. Not knowing anything about shoes I decided to go to a expect. I found them at Runner's Den. The sales people are super friendly and really get you the best pair of shoes for your feet and walking sytyle. They take their time with you and watch you walk and pick a few pairs of shoes for you. You try them and walk around in them and then try some others on. They even took me outside to walk around in them for awhile. I was really impressed by this place! The help me to find the perfect pair of shoes, that fit my feet perfect and have yet to give me blisters or any kind of pain or hurting in feet, knees or any joints. Thank you Runner's Den for having the most knowledge, helpful and caring employees! read more

My husband and I both went in and bought new shoes. My husband was having problems with plantar fasciitis . The staff was very informative and our shoes are great! read more

Simply the BEST! Everyone here is awesome at making sure you walk out of the Den with the right pair of shoes on your feet. We were probably going back and forth with color and comfort for about an hour. Thanks Runner's Den read more

What a fun and helpful experience! I went to Runner's Den to get some new shoes for my recent running hobby. The staff members immediately greeted us. The man who helped us was super friendly, funny and knowledgeable! It was fun to chat with him about his marathon experiences. I knew the type of show I wanted, but he was able to help me differentiate between the various types and discussed support as well. The guy I was with was considering shoes, and the employee was helping him consider some of the options based on what he mentioned due to his injury. The store has a variety of shoes, running apparel, laces, accessories and more. They also have some sports nutrition products too. I will return! read more

Craig, at The Runners Den, is an uplifting soul who is passionate about running. The entire staff is knowledgeable about running and upcoming events. This makes the 12th pair of shoes I have purchased! Thanks RD! read more

Runner's Den - Watermelon is the IN color! My wife is happy. Her feet and knees are happy to get new shoes. - Shoe Stores Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Bought a pair of shoes today that were perfect for my foot! Thought about joining their running club on Wednesday's! The gentleman that helped me was very personable and was telling me about how he's found almost 10,000 dollars on the ground running everyday! Truly inspiring guy, it was a pleasure getting to know him! read more

I love the Runners Den and their FREE Saturday group runs! I haven't done as many recently but ran with them fairly consistently last year. The staff is helpful and always offer tips on stride, strike and cadence. The store itself is great, most of the staff are knowledgeable. I try to buy a pair or two a year from them and supplement with Adidas outlet when I can get there. This is really a much better store then the big, fancy, commercial store! read more

I have only been here once, but upon walking through the door I was greeting by a smile and shown to exactly what I wanted. I will be back and they most likely will have my business from this point on. Cheers Runner's Den. read more

Havn't bought a new pair of Running Shoes in ages - walked in and Ron took over - Pleasant, Knowledgeable and PATIENT! Checked out my gait and measured my foot and explained I didnt need any special inserts or gizmos. Went over my Walk/Run intentions too. Then brought out 5 different Manufacturers/Styles and I walked jogged outside in all of them. Got it down to 2 so he put one of each on and Bamalam - I knew which were the BEST for me. Going out for a walk/jog right now - like gliding on air. Go see Ron! (and no, he's not my Brother. and i'm not his Mom) read more

If you are a runner or a walker, the Runner's Den will help you with the best fit for running shoes. My entire family comes here for their shoes and they never disappoint. The other items; clothing, water bottles, etc. are well priced. read more

Had shoes for 2 months to break them in for rock and roll marathon never really put alot of miles on them ran about 20 miles a week in training plus one half marathon ran race ended up losing 3 toenails brought shoe back to check told me that foot may expand during long distance running exchanged with no questions asked also ga ve me 26.2 sticker for car when I told him it was my first marathon read more

We stopped in here on a recommendation from my Physical Therapist. Right away we were greeted and felt welcome, even with a full shop and all the techs helping others. Nate took care of my wife and me, listening to why we were there, brought out a few pairs of shoes as he wanted to be sure to give my feet some options, and was exceptionally insightful and patient. Also kinda cool ~ Nate didn't focus on price, he focused on what would be best for me. I ended up with a great pair of Brooks ~ crazy comfortable, fit my feet perfectly, and walked out knowing we will be back. Thanks for the great service, the layman's approach to explanation, and for making us feel like VIPs. See you soon! ~Brian read more

I was very impressed with my experience here. As others have said, the store was definitely busy, but it is hard to mind waiting for your turn when you get such personalized and unrushed attention. The rep who helped me never made me feel like I needed to just choose already, never tried to push me into a more expensive pair, etc. After looking at my feet and watching me run he suggested shoes for me to try on / jog in until I found the perfect ones. As a plus, you have 30 days to run in the shoes all you want and you can still bring them back or exchange them if you don't feel they are working out. I paid $99 for a pair of Nike Zoom Structure+ shoes and, out of curiosity, looked up pricing when I got home. That is the same price I would have paid at a Footlocker, and only $10 more than Amazon (without prime shipping, so almost equivalent costs once you pay to have them mailed). I also purchased a Buddy System hands-free leash for $2 more than the online price. Obviously I can't speak to every item in the store, but for what I got -- I really didn't see much, if any, markup. I consider the $2 extra it cost me for the leash more than fair compensation for the expert help I received in choosing the right shoe to alleviate my arch pain. read more

I sold running shoes through college so I know that there are things a store should be able to explain and help you with. I wanted to get shoes for my girlfriend and myself and really wanted help from someone that knew what they were doing. After a stop at a different store that clearly wasn't what we were looking for we found The Runners Den. It was 40min before close and we had the best service imaginable and walked out with 2 pairs of shoes. It was a great experience. If you need or want help with shoes this place is what retail is all about. Very thankful to have them in town. read more

I believe in shopping local and supporting our communities. That's why I've been buying my running shoes and gear from Runner's Den for literally decades. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and nice. And if they don't have what you want in stock, they will order it for you to try, with no strings attached. Case in point... I ordered and purchased 2 pairs of the latest version of the shoes I've been wearing for years. But when I wore them to hike the hills on pavement as I always do, my feet were miserable because this year's version of the shoe ran ever so slightly smaller. And to top it off, I had inadvertently thrown away the shoe inserts since I always use custom orthotics. So I took the shoes back to Runner's Den to see what they could do for me, if anything. The manager, Scott, found the right fit for me which was a size wider and a half size longer. Then at the register, he did an even exchange for me and apologized that the original pairs didn't work out. I was thrilled with such an outstanding customer service experience. So resist the urge to shop on-line and go to the experts. It's worth it! read more

We received professional, thorough, approachable service at Runner's Den. Desirae was super pleasant and actually listened to what our needs where. Ultimately we didn't purchase shoes today. That didn't put Desirae from her positive interaction with us. When I finally decide on which pair of shoes will best suit me, I will return Thank you! read more

I work valet and I'm on my feet nearly 12-15 hours a day. Over time the shoes I was in (newbalence) were not only killing my feet but hurting my knees. I came into this store and was not only given a good recommendation for an alternative, but Jarred even got down and explained the reason why I was having these problem with my old shoes. I spent more than I wanted but my feet and knees are thankful I did. read more

Wow...what more can I say? This is an amazing place to purchase a good pair of runners. They have staff who know what they are talking about, they are able to tell you about your running style by actually teaching you how to test drive the shoes. From what I see, and remember they are not hardcore affiliated with any one particular brand, so you don't have to worry about them trying to push the latest style on you. If you are looking for a good running shoe, or equipment...or even information about current marathons this is the place to go. Experienced Staff, Friendly customers wide selection! One of the reasons bigger isnt always better(store size). read more

I would give this place 5 stars, but the selection is not what you're going to see at big box sporting stores. With the lack of every color combination under the sun available, they make up for with the stellar customer service and knowledgeable staff. They only had my new trail running/ hiking shoes in this semi ugly puke green color, but they make my knees feel oh so supported, I could run in them all day. If you need new shoes and are unsure as to what kind to get, go to the runners den, they will help you out! read more

Thank you Runner's Den for listening to me I do love to talk. Appreciate all the patience from the sales person. I've run for years both road and trail and have sought advice from runners at the Den for years. Sadly I walked away without knowing the name of the person who helped me.....note to self not to let that happen again. Thanks for helping me! read more

Hillary is amazing. Kind and patient with me as we worked through finding the right solution for my horrible feet and replaced knees.

Good place for people who are looking for active foot wear and or therapeutic as well. In this case both my children and I needed shoes for different foot conditions. My son has fallen arches and research led me to runner shoes, daughter is not as bad but needed some also. As for me I have suffered from plantars faciitis most of this year and decided to take time off of exercise and help my feet recover. Slowly they are feeling better so I decided to switch up my shoes and continue the recovery. After researching the Vibram Fivefingers, I found this type of footwear is intended for posture correction, strengthening feet and active lifestyle. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable, they spent as much time needed to help us make the right decision based on all our individual and specific foot needs. So far everyone is happy with their shoes and achieving desired results. Runner's den is a family owned and operated business for over 35 years now and there is a good reason for that. read more

I recently decided to take up running. Crazy, I know. I really wanted to get legitimate with it, and this place had been recommended a few times. So, down I went to see what it was all about. I was promptly greeted by Kelly. She asked what I was in for and I told her I had no idea what I needed, as far as shoes go. She was up for the challenge. I have to say, this was the most interactive shoe buying experience I've ever had. First, she had my take off my shoes and show her how I walked. After observing my feet she went to the back and brought out several pairs of shoes. She showed me how to properly put the shoe on and then had me go for a little jog outside of the store while she observed some more. I ended up doing this a couple of times, each with more comfortable shoes. I ended up with a really great pair from Brooks that I nearly fell asleep in the first night like a little kid. I didn't feel like she was trying to push me to buy higher priced shoes, which is great! I hate feeling pressured to get the biggest/most expensive/etc. of something. Then she gave me a little info on what kind of socks I should be wearing. I referred a friend here, who also found her experience to be top notch. I look forward to shopping here again! I can't sing Kelly's praises enough, she was so awesome! read more

i recently started running after having danced or swam for the rest of my athletic life. the guy who helped me knew the implications of this on my legs and helped me find shoes that could compensate for uneven leg development. he showed me some simple exercises to strengthen the muscles that the other sports never touched, and sent me on my way. before i went in, i was having very bad shin splints and on the verge of giving up running all together. the shoes were exactly right - i have had NO shin splints since i switched - even when i was "breaking in new shoes". some have commented on the price. however, anywhere you look, running shoes and gear are expensive. if you want to run in $15 shoes from walmart, you're going to feel it. taking the time and money to get real running shoes will make the difference. this is one of those few places where you leave (having spent more money than you planned on) and still feel like you can conquer the world. read more

These guys know their stuff. They've also been around forever and know every race and course in the state and then some.

I recently migrated my running from the treadmill to the "real world", and noticed that my $40 bargain shoes from Kohl's weren't cutting the mustard anymore. Runner's Den was recommended by more than one friend so I thought I'd check it out. The salesman was very thorough, observng the way I stood, walked, and ran. I tried and "test drove" multiple pairs of shoes until my feet chose the pair that was right for me. The price was pretty steep, but the service warranted it if the shoes did not (which as far as I can tell they do!) read more