Running For Kicks

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

Great service and great people work there. I appreciate all the help they gave me every time I went in. I also recommend people to go there. What a great store and great selection. This is by far, one of my favorite stores to go to when it comes to running supplies and shoes.

Amazing shoe store! Great shoes and great customer service. The employees truly care that you have the right shoes.
The Fun Runs on Mondays at 6pm are a great way to meet other runners. All levels from walk/​run to fast runners. If you aren’t a runner, they have a beginner runner program that runs a few times a year. It’s an awesome way to get started with a group.

Amazing shoe store.
I had foot surgery last year on both my feet and recently got back into walking and the athletic shoes that I had made my feet so sore after my walks. A few friends of mine recommended I try going to a store where they evaluate my feet as I walked, so I did some research and this was the store I picked. The staff there was so friendly and after I explained my foot problems the gentleman went in the back and picked out 3 pairs of shoes for me. I tried all 3 pairs on and walked down the block and back and picked out the best shoes. I purchased them, walked out of the store with them on, came home and did a 3 mile walk with no foot pain at all.
I will definitely be back in 6 months. They have earned my business and I will recommend them to all my friends!

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.

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.

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

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!

Mel is seriously a running shoe genius!!! I was having problems with my IT band and hamstring… In therapy and everything and he’s like your wearing the wrong shoes.: your feet aren’t made to be in that shoe and it’s pushing your legs out too much… Changed my shoe and the pain is gone!!!
The workouts they have there are great too!!! They always are super inviting and helpful

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.

I am a true runner I ran in college, and I really do believe that for the most part you get what you pay for in shoes. Unless you are buying nike, That is usually a hit or miss. And a rule of thumb is any shoe that needs marketing for it probably isnt the best shoe for you.
The people her analyze your running gait, etc and really help you choose the best shoe for YOU. They must have a great hiring process because I have been coming here for YEARS and everybody is so nice here and really give you nice tips on running etc.
You really need a good shoe every 500 miles so pretty much it is true that if you have foot, knee or back pain, a simple solution might be just to change your shoes.
Nonetheless, I love this place. They even have group runs on Monday nights. What store does that?
I think the people here are genuine and nice and are really just here to help everyone.
They love what they do and are very passionate. What more can I say

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!

My boyfriend and I have shopped here before. Last time we were here was about 2 years ago, and he purchased new shoes while I just hung out.
We returned last night with intention of shopping around for new running shoes. We had no plans to purchase shoes, but the experience was very positive and it became apparent that we needed to make a purchase.
We were greeted by a very friendly woman whose name I did not get (Blast!). But she had short cropped hair and very athletic long legs. She took a look at both of our shoes and our feet and really tried to find the best fitting shoes.
She also took the time to explain them to me and how my patterns of running looked based on the shoe wear. It was delightful to talk with her and she didn’t just have the mentality that all she wanted was to sell shoes. She asked if I had goals or if I was going to do any races this year.
The shoes I picked out were $ 110 and Dan’s were $ 115. I know that I could go home and buy them on ebay or amazon for a little cheaper. But this small business took the time to let me try on new shoes and wear them. They gave me personal attention and really listened to me. You don’t get that at Dick’s Sporting Goods or
.
We both bought a pair of shoes and couldn’t be happier. What a great little local shop that I would recommend to anyone seriously taking up running or training!

Both of my brothers and I are runners. We have been coming to Running for Kicks since high school for new shoes! Even after moving to Chicago I make a trek out to the suburbs for new running shoes. Mel and his staff are the absolute best! The staff are extremely knowledgeable about their shoes and other products and what shoe will work best with your feet. You are always able to test the shoes out on a treadmill or outside before purchasing, which is key for any runner. Associates never try to up sell you with additional products or pressure you into buying new shoes if nothing works out. Overall, extremely satisfied with Running for Kicks.
I love the customer service which is the reason why I keep coming back!
Two thumbs up in my book.

Running for Kicks is awesome!
Their selection of shoes was great. The staff was helpful, knowledgable, and very nice. They also weren’t super pushy which I’ve felt at a few other running stores. I actually didn’t plan to buy new shoes even though I desparately needed them, but I ended up leaving with a new pair of kicks.
They didn’t have «my shoe» (the New Balance 880) in my size, but the guy (Regretfully, I didn’t get his name.) brought me a Brooks Revennas and told me it was similar. I was a bit hesitant since my last pair of Brooks (Adrenalines) didn’t work out for me so well, but the guy explained to me what made this shoe different from the Adrenalines and assured me the Revennas were more similar to my beloved New Balance. I tried them on and went from a quick jaunt up and down the sidewalk in front of the store, and was pretty quickly sold. Plus, I was assured I had 30 days to return the shoes if they didn’t work out.
I’m hoping to make it out for a couple of their Monday night group runs. Now that I have new shoes, I really have no excuse not to get out there!

Despite repeated recommendations from friends, I held off going to Running for Kicks because it isn’t the closest to my house. what a mistake on my part.
I spoke with Colleen when I went to pick up my packet for the Newton Ready to Run and was so impressed I went back. She took the time to talk to me about my running style, analyze my feet, discuss the type of shoes she was bringing out and why she thought they would be good for me. I had originally hoped to buy Newtons (which the store doesn’t have yet) and in looking at how my shoes were wearing, Colleen talked to me about my gait and running form giving me excellent tips.
I was so impressed with her knowledge and the time she spent with me and I really felt that I bought a pair of shoes that will work. Best part, I felt comfortable trying these new shoes knowing I could return them if they didn’t work for any reason. I didn’t feel I was sold a pair of shoes just to be sold.
I will definitely be buying all future running shoes at Running for Kicks and recommending the store to my friends.

Wonderful store wonderful staff! I bought my first pair of running shoes from this place a few years ago and those were the best shoes I’ve ever had! Mel was the one who helped me and I was impressed that he could tell what I needed just by looking at how I stood and walked. I’ve been to a few other stores that use all types of technology when fitting their customers and have never been as happy with the service and more importantly the shoes that I bought at those establishments.
I recently returned to this store to help my dad find a better pair of running shoes and of course to buy myself a new pair as well! The lady that helped him was so kind and patient – my dad asked A LOT of questions. She never made us feel like she was in a hurry even though the store was packed with people. They really take their time with their customers to make sure that they walk or run ;) away with the best equipment possible! Even if you don’t live in the area, this place is worth the drive!

10 stars !!!
What else Can be said that hasn’t already been said !!!
Best running store around.
Fun runs on Monday, couch to 5k program is FREE !!!
Thank you to everyone one at RFK … Y’all keep me moving forward.

It was a bit haul for me to drive (or ride with a friend) to Palos, but not only did I get to share some quality time with a new friend, I found the last place I will EVER buy shoes again. RUNNING FOR KICKS is an amazing store. I walked in and was immediately greeted by Gail. She sat me down, took of my shoes, measured my feet, watched me walk, and fit me with the best pair of running shoes! We tried 4 or 5 pair out first, running up and down the sidewalk in front of the store. Gail was just awesome.
The store was celebrating 15 years in business and had coffee, bagels, pizza for lunch. EVERY.SINGLE.EMPLOYEE I spoke with was helpful. I could spend hours in this tiny shop looking at everything. It’s covered from top to bottom! They sell, laces, hats, shorts, compression socks and pants, arm sleeves, bumper stickers, sunglasses, GU, anti-​chafing gel, orthotics, bracelets, etc.
I will never go anywhere for shoes again! Thank you Mel, Happy 15^th Anniversary and thanks Gail for my perfect new kicks!

Mel is the running expert. He’s a hands on owner and does a great job of training his employees. This guy knows everything about running. Mel takes the time to fit the person and their running regimen to the shoe. Every time I drive by the store, I see Mel or one of his employees on the sidewalk out front watching people running back and forth, trying out shoes.