Rhode Runner

I’m not a runner, I don’t pretend to be on, and I definitely overwear my shoes until my stitches need stitches, however, I was very impressed by both the staff’s friendliness, their supply of shoes, the overall décor, and most importantly, the great deals. If you are a Lifespan/​hospital employee, there is a 10% discount, in addition to a $ 10 for $ 20 coupon. With the aid of the staff, I learned that one of my foot was slightly larger, I had a mild gait abnormality. With a great deal of patience and failed attempts to find a better deal, I ended getting a great pair of shoes that’ll be put to use shortly after my obstacle race.
I’d recommend this place to any avid runners. Did I mention they have their own running team?

Absolutely love this place and will never buy my running shoes anywhere else! I make a special trip from NYC to get them. Customer service is out of this world and all the employees are super knowledgeable.

I don’t have any experience with running or stores for runners. I found them while looking for a store that carried Oofos brand flip flops. I have severe Plantar Fasciitis and dislike anything but flip flops. I was nervous at first, because I clearly am not a runner. (lol) I was unsure how I would be treated but staff was extremely helpful. Easy transaction, will be back to get a walk analysis and some good sneakers ;) These flip flops aren’t the least bit fashionable but certainly instant comfort! Thanks Rhode Runner for the great experience. Keep it up.

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 Unilocal 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!

I’ve been a loyal shopper before and since it moved to the new location. I actually found it easier to park at the old spot on S. Main compared to the tiny parking lot they have now, but you can’t argue with the square footage and great usage of space at the current store!
The staff is super knowledgeable and won’t rush to sell you the most expensive shoe option if it doesn’t work for you. I appreciate that as I go through running shoes very quickly. They have high quality/​high cost running accessories as well. Cheaper options of many exist elsewhere, but they do have pretty sweet sales and discounts most of the time.
I can’t speak to it now, but I tried one of the evening running groups a couple years ago. I didn’t have a great experience. I found it pretty cliquey and elitist. I was one of the faster runners and when I tried to join in with the speedy group, they seemed less than welcoming and not interested in chatting.
As for the shopping experience, I can’t recommend it enough!

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 Unilocal 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.

First let me say the parking lot is awful. Don’t even try to park there. Park at Whole Foods and walk over. Trust me on this one.
Unlike the parking lot, the store itself is actually very big and spread out. They have 100 feet or so of jogging track inside so you can actually test out those new shoes you’re trying on. They offer stylish and practical gear for the beginning to experience runner. The clothing racks are spread out so you can actually browse the selection. They not only have a good variety of quality running shoes but they also have foam rollers, sports goo (Gu, and another brand made from honey) sports bras, compression gear, capris, pants, shorts, tank tops, T-​shirts, singlets, and many other accessories that you didn’t know you needed.
They have a community room in the back of the store where they meet for group yoga, group runs, and often times packet pick up for local races. The staff at Road Runner is what really makes it stand out. Eric is always there to answer any obscure running shoe question you may have, the rest of the staff is simply phenomenal as well. They never rush or pressure you, they’re simply there to help. A true sense of community and runner pride is felt here, it’s really nice! :)
Rhode Runner is a prime example of «you get what you pay for». The clothing, shoes, and accessories are a little bit more pricey but they are all quality products that with the right care should last you for many runs. If you check in to the store on Unilocal they will very often give you some sort of a discount. Last week I checked in and got a coupon for $ 10 off any $ 50 purchase. Thanks for $ 10 off my new running shoes Unilocal!Today I went into browse gloves and upon checking in I unlocked a «get $ 20 worth of merchandise for $ 10» deal. $ 20 gloves for $ 10, that’s 50% off, SWEET! The store will have random sales too, for instance… the week of the 4^th of July, anything in the store that was red white or blue was 20% off. Can you say new blue running shorts? They also periodically have a clearance rack with last seasons clothes (and sometimes shoes!) in the rear of the store. Make sure to check that out, hidden gems in there! With a little patience and diligence there are bargains to be found here.
Lastly, check out the stores website for all the fun happenings. They’re a pretty social group: group yoga, group runs (beer after!) free timed 5k’s, and their tent is at every health expo and running event in the state, all the time! Often times, product reps will come to group run night (Wednesday, 6pm) so you can take their products for a test run, and sometimes they even let you keep it!
They lose one star because the parking lot is just that bad, but I love Rhode Runner!

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.

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.

Let me start off by saying before I started going to Rhode Runner, I had not run in years. I had years worth of injuries, and then in 2003, the owner, Bob had me come in and he sized my foot and placed me in a shoe that worked for me.
Of course, it would be years, an illness and lots of weight gain before I would run again. But, considering my new battle with obesity and I had been injury free for years (inactive), the first place I went to was Rhode Runner. I would like to say that the experience was great. But, it was not. But, it was no fault of theirs. The one pair of shoes that fit my abnormal feet were discontinued by New Balance and it would be months before the new 880 would come in that they pre-​ordered me.
After months of running in bad shoes or barefoot (low miles) and a few 5k races, I made my way to pick up my new shoe. I cannot tell you the excitement I had coming into Rhode Runner and have a shoe that fit me. Sure it cost $ 80 more than the $ 40 junk shoe I was wearing. But, my faith in their staff let me know it was going to be worth it.
Now, I had the right shoe and I started lengthening my runs. I started doing half marathons and in 2013, I ran my first marathon and ultra. This year, I would break the 3 hr mark and qualify for Boston 2015 (which qualifying and running was always a dream of mine since running as a kid.).
I know a lot of this is more than a review should really consist of. But, without the customer service of Rhode Runner, I likely would still be 240 lbs or more (not 170). I probably would have been injury prone like I was as when I competitively run as a kid. There would be no half marathons. There would be no marathons. My son would likely not be running.
They will cost more than going to Dicks or a generic sports store and getting a «running shoe». But, the cost vs value of spending on surgery, treatments and other ailments that would have cost compared the value of doing what I love and being me again, outweighs any cost. Yes, their customer service is that good.
So, if you are a newbie, veteran, injury prone, or have always been healthy, this is the place to go. I would not even say there is a good second option in the area, because I find their quality unmatched in product, knowledge and customer service regardless of any business in RI.

I jog I don’t really run I was a bit worried about going in the store because I am not a pro but they were amazing. The sales person took so much time with me and really made me feel great about my choice. I picked a pair of sneaks and after a few runs did not like them and I have to say this store really stands behind their policies. I took them back and got the other pair no fuss at all.
Looking forward to my running clinic this week — thanks so much!

In my opinion, Rhode Runner is the best place in RI when it comes to running shoes and apparel. Not only is the selection there great, the incredible customer service and knowledge about running is what makes this place stand out.
I came in needing a new pair of shoes and explained to one of the staff members the distances I usually run and type of terrain it’s on. He had me walk in my socks back and forth on their track and then do the same except the next time at a jogging pace. What amazed me is that while I was doing this he was able to analyze my running style based on my stride /​form and then had me sit down and went in the back to find shoes that would be the best fit for my style.
I have been using these shoes for a little while now and honestly could not be happier with the choice. Not only are they lightweight and comfortable but they offer the perfect support while I’m running (which my original pair seriously lacked). The staff at Rhode Runner definitely helped me pick out the perfect shoe to go running in and I couldn’t be happier. While I was there I also picked up some colder weather running gear which they recommended as well, and it certainly made a huge difference during the colder months.
Whether you are a novice runner or a seasoned pro, Rhode Runner is a great place to go when it comes to your running needs. They take the time to analyze your running style /​needs and make honest recommendations based on what you might be looking for. Thank you Rhode Runner… I will definitely be back!

They called on time! The shoes were great and they gladly took my $ 10 off coupon in addition to the 10% off on the shoes. I’m now a lifetime customer!

I had a great experience at Rhode Runner’s today. I was in desperate need for new running shoes. Previously my approach to buying sneakers was always to buy a shoe that fit, was on sale and not too ugly. Since I’ve started running and want to complete a 5k in the spring, I knew I needed to get serious. I was nervous when I went in by they didn’t make me feel like a noob. He watched me walk and run and recommended a few shoes to try. With his assistance I was able to choose the one that fit me best. I’m so pleased with the service I will definitely be back. It’s a little pricey sure but I know I have the best shoe for me. They also sign you up for a rewards program — spend $ 250 get $ 25 — which makes the prices a little more reasonable.

I like going to specialists b/​c I find that I end up learning all sorts of fascinating little tidbits of human collective knowledge. For example, my fave poultry farmer schooled me in the difference between a pullet and a fryer, my fave oyster farmer taught me about color, taste and clarity of his oysters (yes, he speaks in diamond classification terms. totally applies) and Rhode Runner, my new fave running specialist showed me the way on fit. Without getting into scary details, let’s just say that my pedicurist owes Rhode Runner some major, major hugs for the preventative maintenance that Rhode Runner in effect supplied to my tootsies by introducing me to shoes that correctly fit according to my gait, stride, predisposition, personality and futuristic tendencies. I’m not kidding. They don’t utilize a ouija board but somehow they just know stuff. It’s uncanny.
So come here, buy shoes or other running gear, and have your own pedicurist praise the lord that you come here too. Healthy feet, smiley service.

I get all my running gear from here– sneakers, gu, fuel belts. The staff is always very friendly and helpful. They helped me find the perfect pair of sneakers. I have extremely flat feet and a bunion, but I have had no pain during my half-​marathon training with the shoes that they fitted me with. Great store. Only con is very poor location with difficulty parking.

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, Unilocal,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!

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!

I had been referred to Rhode Runner by my trainer when I first moved to RI and I finally made the time to visit but wish I went sooner. I walked in and was greeted and when I told them I needed running sneakers they started asking questions about things I normally wouldn’t consider.
After a «getting to know you» session I then walked the track to determine where I lacked stability and required additional support. The sales associate made sure to check my stride from various angles to make sure my ankle and arch were in the right position.
I tried on a few pairs but the first one stuck with me as the most comfortable. Clearly they know what they are doing if the first pair they select is the Cinderella slipper that is the perfect fit! I now know where to go whenever I need a new pair of running shoes!

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 :-)