Runner’s Roost

The old saying, «you get what you pay for» rings true at RR. The selection is great and the service is outstanding. Upon a recent visit I bought a pair of running shoes and after two days of use, my feet were aching and I knew these shoes were not user friendly, at least not to this user. I took them back and without question I was able to exchange them for a different pair which I am very happy with now. Upon trying them on, after MANY pairs, I mentioned to the sales guy that they felt good but, how would they feel when I was running? He told me to go outside and give them a test run, so there I was jogging down N. Buffalo Rd in what are now my new treads. They were extremely knowledgeable about how my arch looked, the shape of my foot, the fit of the shoe, etc. and really took their time with my selection. I would definitely go back for any running needs.

I was out running the trails at Chestnut Ridge just a few miles down the road when I decided to stop by. I wasn’t really into their selection. I think they cater to a different crowd than myself. Lots of cross country shoes and other stuff that really wasn’t what I was looking for. There are good reviews of this place, but it just didn’t work for my needs. The lighting in there was terrible though.

I have walked/​run for many years and have never had a professional fit or consultation until now. I always bought what I thought were «good» cross trainers that I tried on in large sporting goods stores. Well… I was wearing the wrong shoes (turns out I should be using running shoes for my mileage), the wrong size, and the wrong fit! Who knew? As the very knowledgeable young man who assisted me went through my various options I marveled at the comfort right from the get-​go. No breaking-​in period. I realized that this is one item where personal service and fit is critical. Both employees there were actually runners, themselves. The prices might be a tad higher but the folks in the big box stores never offered me any advice like Runner’s Roost did. I know that people today will sometimes go to these wonderful family stores and then buy their product at a discount store or online; somewhere with no service. Shame on them! If you use a place to try on their product and gather information, then have the courtesy to purchase your product there. You won’t regret it!

A great place to get some inspiration and gear in the «Southtowns.»
My first visit was almost undesirable as the associate who helped me seemed less-​than-​interested, and less-​than-​forthcoming with helpful suggestions on brand/​fit. I had a gift certificate to use, and I was due for a new pair. That’s why I was there. Maybe I arrived closer to closing time than opening, but that’s no excuse for a cold reception. The staff at that point just didn’t seemed enthusiastic about customers.
The only reason I chose to drive 25 miles for sneakers a second time after this unimpressive experience, was because of a juicy little tid-​bit I received at the close of my purchase. *Half-​Off Sale in January.*
Fast forward to January. The sale started on MLK Jr day (Score! because the BF and I had the day off…) BF and I were up early for a gym date anyway, so we made sure we got there when the store opened. We both walked out with two (or three) pairs EACH. It was buy one, get one *free* (and then 50% off the BF’s third pair; they cut him a deal.) The associates this time around were AWESOME. So helpful, as I wanted to find a pair of trail runners and wasn’t sure which ones were most like my beloved brand. They steered me in the right direction and I couldn’t be more satisfied.
Check them out if you’re running out of options (ha) for all kinds of running gear. Or Uggs (if that’s your thing… no judging) because they have a formidable selection of those too.