5 Stellar Reasons to Shop at Runner’s Roost

For more than 5 years, I've been wearing size 12 shoes, so that's what I told them when I walked into Runner's Roost for new running shoes.

The associate insisted on measuring my feet and I'm glad he did: I'm a size 14! He improved my running just by measuring my feet. The burning sensation I used to feel on my feet is gone, along with the feeling that I'm landing RIGHT on my foot when running.

I run just a couple of times a week, so I can tell you firsthand that Runner's Roost staff is great for casual runners like me and more serious runners who hit races each weekend. (In fact, no matter where you fall on that spectrum, you should take a look at their weekly running group; more info here.)

Here are some other reasons why you should head to Runner's Roost for your next pair of athletic shoes:

1) Their employees are runners themselves who work hard to create a good customer experience. You're not left to find your own shoes or simply handed a shoe to put on yourself. You'll get a free evaluation and proper fitting by a qualified and experienced staff. When I shopped there three weeks ago, the sales associate started looking with me in the clearance rack—he didn't start with the top-of-the-line, most expensive option.

2) Improper footwear can cause injuries, including shin splints, stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and many others. Your foot actually expands under the repeated impact of running, so many runners, especially women, wear shoes that are too small. "In the proper shoes, your foot is free to move and work the way nature intended," according to Runner's World.

3) They are a long-standing local small business. They've been helping runners in West New York and Southern Ontario for 40 years! And, as this Huffington Post article explains, small businesses have a big impact on the economy.

4) Runner's Roost has better quality footwear than a big box store. You'll see the same brand names but the models are different. Runner's Roost's models have better comfort, support and materials.

5) Their shoes are not just for running! Running shoes are versatile and can be used for running, walking, daily wear, leisure, and even for work! Running shoes are lighter, more cushioned, breathable, and supportive. They also have Teva and Keen sandals that are good for letting your toes breathe after a long run—and for hitting the beach.

I wasn't the only one in my house fitted at Runner's Roost recently. They also took care of my 2-year-old Hank. He won't be training for a 10K any time soon, but he certainly knows how to run off energy, whether it's around the store, house or the park!