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| - A friend recommended the True Runner store in Shadyside to me after I had posted on Facebook about my relatively new hiking/running shoes causing me foot pain. The staff at this store is amazing! I ran on the treadmill and had my gait analyzed, which was waaay cool. They actually take a video of your feet while you run, and then show you the video on an iPad! How cool and state-of-the-art is that?
The analysis enabled the store's talented sales manager, Ian Shreckengast, to show me ONLY the shoes that would specifically work with my foot issues (supination/underpronation), and he even took the shape of my feet into consideration (wide in front, narrow in the heel). He never tried to talk me into buying anything that I didn't absolutely love, and even discouraged me from buying a pair that was fairly comfortable, but just didn't fit right. (My heel was sliding up and down in the shoe as I walked.) A less reputable salesman would have tried talking me into buying every shoe I tried on, but not Ian. I never felt pressured, and he and the rest of the staff were more than happy to answer any questions I had about the shoes, and later, about other merchandise.
In the past, I have had a very difficult time finding even one pair of shoes that fit me right. There have been times when I tried on a dozen pairs of shoes at other stores, only to leave without buying anything. But, thanks to the talented staff and advanced fitting techniques at True Runner, I now own TWO PAIRS of SUPER COMFORTABLE and great-fitting hiking/running shoes (Sauconys), and I couldn't be happier.
I've never seen a more professional and knowledgeable staff in any shoe store ever before in my entire life! It was a phenomenal experience. These folks really know how to fit you for the perfect pair of shoes for your feet.
And, their 30-day guarantee is the icing on the cake! EVEN IF YOU'VE WORN THE SHOES ON THE STREET, you can still return them for a store credit within 30 days! (Full refund if they haven't been worn outside.) I've never heard of a store letting you return shoes that have been worn on the street. That's how confident they are that they've sold you the right shoes for your feet!
I was also glad to find some much-needed accessories while I was there. In addition to purchasing two pairs of hiking/running shoes, I also bought a really nice insulated water bottle with hand-strap for easy carrying; two stretchy earmuffs that were a perfect fit (my ears get cold easily); a long-sleeved moisture-wicking shirt (dual-function--works for exercise AND hot flashes! LOL.); and two really awesome sun visors. (The earmuffs have a slot built into the back to allow a ponytail to be pulled right through! I love that feature.)
I have to tell you that the young man who waited on me, Ian, was outstanding and went above and beyond the call of duty! As I was checking out, I mentioned how much I liked the white sun visor I'd found on a clearance rack, and that I wished it came in other colors. He went back to the visor display, and promptly returned with the visor I loved in black! I was thrilled, and bought them both--the white and black visors. What makes these visors so special? The back is a very stretchy, lightweight fabric, which makes them easy to put on, extremely comfortable, and will help keep the hair off the back of my neck. (I have my hair in a ponytail when I hike.)
This was a wonderful shopping experience! This is what shoe-shopping (and accessory-shopping) should always be like. I have found my "go-to" store for all my future hiking and running needs. KUDOS the entire staff for their knowledge, good nature, and attention to detail. My advice: avoid going during crowded times, but if you do, be patient. They're worth the wait. And, if you're not in a hurry, wait for a rainy day to shop. GOOD LUCK & HAPPY SHOPPING!
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