How can I be the first reviewer? This is the best frigging running shoe store in the southlands, and possibly in Chicago. The selection is unbelievable, and the staff are all trained to analyze your gate, detect pronation, and otherwise give very detailed technical advice on running shoes. They carry a good selection of both running shoes and trail runners. If you are a Chicago runner you HAVE to visit this place. read more

Gail was extremely patient and helpful in helping to figure out what shoe would be best for my boyfriend. She asked questions, seemed genuinely concerned and attentive to his needs. She explained the differences in the various shoes and offered her expert opinion on what shoes would be best based on his goals/running style (she had him do a few quick strides outside the store). They even have a no-questions-asked 30 day return policy, no matter what the condition of the shoes. read more

An absolute waste of time. There were three high-school workers who were on their cell phones the entire time I was there, plus another employee who was perhaps the manager (however, she didn't say one word to me). One of the young girls helped me. She didn't measure my foot, didn't ask any questions about my running habits, and didn't offer to put me on the treadmill to evaluate my gait. I brought along my current running shoes with my inserts, and she didn't even look at them. I asked for shoes that would help my overpronation and she brought out several pairs of neutral shoes until I insisted that I needed ones with more support. I will not return and I will not recommend. read more

Excellent running supply store, they have everything you need. I've bought my daughter all her running supplies here as of late. Training shoes, spikes and racing flats. I highly recommend this place for novice to expert runners. Staff is very helpful and knowledgeable. Will be back again in a couple of months spending some major cash again. read more

Great staff, they take the time to fit you with the right shoes for you. And very supportive of runners, and the community, of all abilities. read more

The family has been going to Running For Kicks for years. We started when my daughter who ran track for Queen of Peace told us about it, and have been going back ever since. Mel & the rest of the staff have always been on top of new improvements with all the shoes they carry. As he has run in and helps sponsor numerous runs/marathons he knows of what he/they speak. Excellent place to shop and learn about what's current in running or walking. read more

As soon as I wanted to try on a shoe, Mel had 8 other pairs out for me to try before I could sit down and try on the first! Loved that he was clearly intent on me getting into the best possible shoe that I would continue to enjoy long term, not just shove me out the door with the first pair I was sorta ok with. I get the same feeling with everyone else I run into when I go in there. It's pretty cool that they let you "test drive" the shoe before you buy it by taking a light jog in front of the store. Did not like the fit when I got home in one of the pairs of shoes I bought from here once, and returning them for a different pair couldn't have been more easy. This is the kind of business that I want to continue to give my money too, because people like Mel and his team clearly care about the customer over the bottom line, and deserve to stay in business!! read more

Great running store. A little expensive, but you get what you pay for. A lot of experiments and great advice. If you are gearing up to start running see Mel and his associates. read more

I have edited my original review. .The reason for the edited review is that the owner of this shop is committed to customer service and will do what it takes to make everything right . This shop is a bit out of the way for me but the commitment to customer service that Mel has shown is well worth the few extra miles. Keep up the great work read more

I recently bought a pair of running shoes from Colleen at Running for Kicks. She was awesome! I can't say enough about her knowledge. What I loved even more is that they didn't try to sell me anything that I didn't' need. That was key for me. I will most certainly be back. Thanks Colleen!! read more

Running for Kicks is the best store for running shoes! Mel and his team are very knowledgeable and they have a 30 day return policy. Mel supports the running community in a lot of different ways! read more

Not a runner, but I developed foot pain in the last year. My podiatrist suggested I try a better shoe source and I he told me to come here for a proper assessment and fit. Mel was patient and great to work with. Too soon to tell if I can forgo surgery with a proper fitted shoe, but I'm pleased with the service and attention to my interests. Thanks for your time Mel! read more

I really appreciate Mel and Running For Kicks. Bought a pair of shoes Monday. Hurt my toe running. Returned them Tuesday. Those were too big. Returned them tonight and got my third pair. Went for a 4 miler tonight and love them!! Thanks Mel. And thanks for being patient and committed to me! read more

I've been running for a while - and always gotten "running shoes" from Kohl's or the like. I'm sorry, but shoes really do make a difference when running and after years of my knees aching I finally showed up at Running For Kicks and was ready to pay for a decent pair of real running shoes. I'm a mom, and I rarely get a moment without my two young kids. The first time I went into the store, I had my two little ones along with me. After talking with the gentleman (didn't get his name...) about what kind of running I do, he recommended some shoes and helped me try them on. I got a good fit, was super excited to try them on a run, and off I went. Much to my complete dismay, these shoes did not help me one bit. They were cute lol, I really wanted to like them, but they simply weren't any better than my department store shoes and might have almost been worse! I went back to the store after three runs in them and explained my problem. The lady working the counter didn't even hesitate. She immediately took them back and asked to see me jog a little back and forth in my bare feet. I took a few paces and she recommended a different shoe style. Turns out I roll my right ankle in when I run - who knew!? I tried on a more supportive shoe, she watched me jog around again to see how it changed my stride, and away I went! I LOVE these shoes! No more knee pain, no more sore feet, just happy running! Great customer service! I was so disappointed after the first pair didn't work out, but they took great care of me and it was no trouble at all to swap out the pair for one that worked better for me! Couldn't ask for better care. read more

LOVE Running for Kicks. They took a significant amount of time getting to know me, my running patterns, and running style. They set me up with Brooks' Ghost and these shoes are so comfortable. I'm able to run as long as I'm able without any foot pain. So thankful, will never go anywhere else for shoes. read more

I've lived in the area my whole life and have never been in this store. I took my freshman daughter in a couple of days ago for new shoes for track. Gail was so friendly and helpful! She was very thorough, personable and was happy to answer our questions. We will definitely be back!! read more

I love this store. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and very friendly. I always purchase my running extras and shoes there. They support the running community and offer group runs on Monday nights. The store often has different shoe representatives out throughout the year so you can take an actually run in their shoes. I wouldn't shop at another store for your running shoes!!!!!! read more

I am not a runner, just a person with old injuries that make it hard to walk. Always trying shoes that work with my inserts. I waited a month to write my review because Shoes always feel good in the store for those two minutes, however after you wear them a lot is what proves their worth. Thank you to Mel and his awesome staff. You found my shoes first try and Just Knew!! I am glad I purchased both pairs as I finally have happy feet and it's thanks to you all! Did I mention they have the coolest socks too? And Mel I have gotten used to the pink too read more

Running For Kicks - Shoe Stores Near Me - Palos Heights, Illinois

Running for kicks is the best shoe store I have ever visited for walking and running shoes. The owner, Mel, will personally wait on you and totally take the time to understand your foot issues to make sure you are fitted properly. I have a 30 day return policy and now is very interested to make sure you have the proper shoes for your feet. read more

I have been coming here for my running shoes for years. I love the service, the ease of returns, and the variety of shoes they carry. It doesn't matter who helps you, the employees are patient, observant and bring a mountain of shoes for you to try on until you find the perfect match! read more

We went in today for some new running shoes for my fiancé. Mel was awesome and fit him in the first pair of shoes he has ever been comfortable in! We will definitely be back for more. read more

I recently bought running shoes, however they weren't the ones for me. I went back to running for kicks and Mel was more then happy to exchange the shoes for me, was more then satisfied! read more

If you want a good selection of shoes and staff who actually know their products, this is the place. Even if you are just looking for shoes for everyday walking, they have great options. Running for Kicks carry the best options, you won't find sub par choices here. read more

Friendly, knowledgeable staff. And they are very supportive of the local running scene - the owner is also the race director for the Southwest Half Marathon. Make sure to stop by for their group run - Mondays at 6pm! Everyone is very friendly and all paces are welcome. read more

Friendly staff and lots of options! Great place to go if you need running gear or ready to train for a marathon!

This is a great running shoe store. I would compair it to the old Vertel's (When it was on Wells). The people seem to know their stuff and the selection is pretty good. The owner seems to be there every time I've been to the store (which is good) and if you are a joiner they have different running groups. Overall, this is a great asset to running on the south side. read more

The staff is VERY knowledgeable. They will spend as much time as needed to find the perfect shoe for your foot and lifestyle. It doesn't matter if you're a marathon runner or just walk for fun. I also appreciate the fact that Mel supports many different organizations such as Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Team in Training. read more

After I started having problems with my foot I went to Running For Kicks at the referral of a friend and physical therapist. I was skeptical that a shoe could help ease the pain. Wow! Was I wrong! I've now bought 2 pairs of shoes from them in the last year. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and easy to talk to. The prices are very reasonable, too. I will never go back to Kohl's for my shoes again. They also gave me 10% off of my first purchase for being a new customer. They have a treadmill inside, but you can also jog on the sidewalk. read more

This store is also great for people who don't run! Was having problems with my knees. Gail assessed and fitted me with the perfect fit. No more knee problems! read more

I have been purchasing running shoes at Running for Kicks for many years now. As a runner, I can appreciate the knowledge of fellow runners when discussing the merits of certain shoes for certain running patterns, mileages, foot-strikes, etc. Now that my son has picked up the sport, I have taken him to the store as well. I have received the same courteousness and care for my son as I have always received in my past experiences. I would recommend this store to anyone that has an interest in running from novice beginner to aged veteran like myself. read more

Running For Kicks is fantastic! The staff is friendly, patient, and very knowledgeable. They will help you find exactly what you are looking for and make sure you leave satisfied. read more

I'm a novice runner and the salesperson gave me a lot of guidance to find the right shoes. They actually take you out to run and see if your shoes are correct for your feet/gait. I'm very impressed with their level of customer service and products available. I'm very happy with my purchase and will come back when I need more gear. Thanks! read more

This is the best running store in the Chicago area. I live in the NW burbs, but get all my running supplies at Running For Kicks. The staff is super friendly and helpful. Mel really knows running and shoes and is quick to give helpful advice. Besides shoes, they have a great selection of sports apparel. read more

Love love love this place. They have a great selection of sizes and brands. Maggie did a great job and helped me buy my first Hokas today!

Mel and his team provide expert advice in an extraordinarily friendly way (which is particularly nice for new runners)! Customer service is top-notch--both in the store, and online. I frequently purchase my shoes online (which is super easy) and they arrive to my doorstep within 2 days. Keep it up, Running for Kicks! read more

Fantastic experience at running for kicks last night. My daughter was expertly fitted and we were able to exchange a shoe that didn't work from a previous purchase. Thank you thank you. read more

This store is amazing! The owner is the kindest, most helpful and caring person I have ever dealt with. I feel he genuinely cares about the customer and my concerns. I have never experienced the level of customer service that I did today! He went above and beyond to make sure I was happy and I know from previous experience that he stands behind what he sells and will work hard to resolve any issues. I am a customer for life. Would never shop anywhere else! read more

About six ago a purchase a pair of Munoz running shoe, The price for this high mileage training shoe was $150.00. I run between 20-30 miles a week. I wear a custom orthotics inside of my running shoes. A couple weeks ago my left instep on top of my foot became to hurt and became very sore and tender near the edge of the toe box and the first holes for the laces. I could not tolerate placing my foot inside of this shoe and yet I needed to run. I decided to call my friend of and owner of running for kicks Mel. After a few minutes over the phone with him he told me to bring the shoes back, no problem and that they would fit me with another shoe. Well the next day after work i arrive at the running for kicks store located on 127st and Harlem Ave. Mel had left for the day, yet a sales associate name David was there to service me, he said to me after i was explaining my situation to him and that I had spoken with Mel already about what was occurring with this shoe. He says to me, Roy say no more, he was standing next to Mel when I called and Mel told him to fit me with a new pair of shoes that I was comfortable in and to make sure that I was happy. Well David truly deliverer on Mel's request. He provided Ultimate Service for me and I can not be more happier and completely satisfied over their products and service. I would highly recommend Running For Kicks to every runner and person that I know. To Mel and David, I salute you both and Cheers to your store's commitment to such high standards and Loyalty to your customers. This week-end I will be running 18 miles with confidence and comfort thanks to U Guys. Sincerely, Roy Boyd read more

The staff at running for kicks are very knowledgeable, and very personable. The staff are seriouse runners. I had mentioned in January that I was going to run my first 5 K and Nadine (sorry if I spelled your name wrong) got excited and printed out a training calender. I was excited to let her know I completed my first 5 k. I was able to try the shoes outside before I bought them. I would highly recomend running for kicks. read more

I went to Running for Kicks last week to buy another pair of running shoes. The man who took care of me seemed extremely impatient and did not want to spend any time fitting me for shoes. After I tried on one pair and was unsatisfied, I asked to try on another pair, preferably New Balance. The man said, "We don't have any," in a nasty tone, while clearly this wasn't the case after I asked another employee if New Balance shoes were in stock. This hasn't been the first bad experience I have had in this store. I feel that if you are the customer, you should be able to ask any question you want and should leave feeling as if the pair of shoes you spent your hard earned money on is the right pair for you. I won't be back here. read more