The Runner’s Edge

I have been buying shoes from Runner’s Edge since they first opened. They fitted me with my first pair of marathon shoes, for the 1993 Chicago marathon. Since then I have run countless races, including 20+ marathons and five 50 milers. Most of these races were off-​road. All the shoes I ran those races on I bought from Runner’s Edge.
Before I started patronizing Runner’s Edge I had purchased shoes at a couple other, local runners stores but they didn’t take the time to properly fit me and the shoes they recommended often gave me problems running, for instance huge blisters! When I found Runner’s Edge fit problems became a thing of the past.
The staff at Runner’s Edge take the time to properly fit you, putting you on their threadmill to correctly determine your gait and stride. And the staff are all runners, not simply some salesperson.
They’ll also gladly special order shoes, which is a huge plus for me as I am really picky about the shoes I run in.
As to prices, they are manufacturer’s retail price (and to claim that the prices are high because of the suburb the store is located in smacks of reverse snobbery) but they do have sales and do offer the 10% CARA member discount. And they are no more expensive than Zappos.
Sure big box sporting goods stores and online marketplaces like Amazon may have lower prices but be careful, those prices often are on discontinued shoes or shoes which have sat for many months and so have aged and loss their cushioning. Plus, you can’t expect to get a properly fitting shoe simply by ordering a size. Different company’s shoes all have their own unique fit and just because a Nike size 10 fits well doesn’t mean an Adidas size 10 will feel the same. Even different models in the same brand line will sometimes fit differently. You need to try on shoes and have them properly fitted by someone experienced. This is why you need to patronize a top notch running store, especially if you are actually running in the shoes you’re buying.
I’ll always take having the correct shoes, especially when distance running, over saving a few dollars any day. It’s better to prevent injuries in the first place and that starts with the proper shoes, properly fitted by an experienced store.
As long as I am running, and walking as well, I’ll keep buying my shoes from Runner’s Edge!

Came in with no expectations at all — needed new shoes. Just started a new cross training gym and I’m not in great shape. Amazing experience with Jonathan at this store. They get info on what u need shoes for. Then if necessary they watch you run and video it on the treadmill. So this way they can assess and provide the best pair of shoes for you. Assessment is free. I went from MAJOR shin pain on Thursday, to no issues at all on Sunday she working out! Compression sleeves and new shoes and all perfect!!! And new shoes were $ 100 so not crazy expensive.

The Runner’s Edge went above and beyond to find the right fit for my finicky left foot. I have foot problems from many years of standing while teaching art. They graciously worked with me until I found a great pair so I can keeping up my walking régime. Their service rocks!

Recently went here to find a pair of running shoes. I was helped by Amanda and she was absolutely spectacular. I’m extremely picky about shoes, but she was knowledgeable, patient, and understanding. I tried on at least 8 different pairs with at least 15 different combinations, but found a great pair of shoes for a very reasonable price. It’s definitely in the pricier side of things but the staff are fantastic.

I came here a while back to get something called a Strasburg sock due to some ankle pain that I was experiencing. It was one of the few places in my area that carried such an item. One of them employees also convinced me to buy this foot massage mechanism to assist with my ankle pain. Sadly neither of the items helped with my issue at all and the foot massage mechanism turned out to be a complete joke for $ 20. Outside of random uncommon foot merchandise, this place seems to make its bread and butter on shoe sales. I find this to be amazing because the store isn’t that large and the prices are high. However I guess the Wilmette clientele appreciate the intimate guest service and close attention that they must be given on the account of the store not seeming to be that busy.

Was in the Wilmette Store today about 2:20pm. I am a long time runnger and was looking for a different shoe to fit my new specific needs. I had great service from a young lady who understood my needs and bought the first pair of shoes I tried on.

Very knowledgeable staff. No pressure. Great buying experience!

I bought a pair of close to barefoot running shoes (New Balance Deminimus) and the staff was very helpful in explaining the pros and cons of this type of shoe, which was new for me. I am suprised that some found the staff less than helpful, me experience was the opposite.
As to price I have compared prices online and by the time you pay shipping the prices are the same. The $ 5 difference is well worth the ability to try the shoes on and getting input on choice. If you are not willing to pay for this type of service do not be suprised in a few years when it does not exist.

Knowledgeable, friendly and very helpful staff. The shoes are definitely pricey. I think every pair is $ 100 so if you are looking for a bargain this is not the place (which is the reason for 4 stars instead of 5). But I was willing to pay the price b/​c I had no idea of what kind of shoe I needed. The price was worth the excellent customer service.

The staff has an unmatched contempt for the customers. This place may have good products, but the sales team are villains. Second time there that the sales people have been posturing among themselves rather than waiting on the customers. I think Starbucks would be a more appropriate venue for their hipster posing.

My main reason for 3 stars is their over pricey-​ness (if such a word exists!). I was in the market for running shoes and came to know of this business through local friends. I was impressed with the sales lady and the time she took to see my walk, run and analyze what type of shoe would be good for me. However all her recommended shoes were ~$ 100 — so she said. I found it hard to believe that a pair of Brooks and Asics and New Balance would all be exactly the same amount.
I politely excused myself and came home to check Amazon where new shoes (and make and model) go at about $ 78 + S/​H. I went to Dick’s Sporting goods and the same model of shoe was priced at $ 90.
So while I did appreciate what I learnt from the sales lady at Runner’s Edge, in today’s world of information at the consumer’s finger tips and a tough economy, I went with a more price-​wise option and bought a new pair of Asics Nimbus 12 from Dick’s. It’s not like I won’t pay a premium. I hate paying $ 8 in shipping and handling and would love to promote a local city store… but at the same time I also hate paying a 20% mark up just because it’s the local store. So after 2 extra hours (of going to Dicks and amazon research) I feel like I am $ 10 richer.
So net-​net, if you don’t mind a good mark up over and above Amazon and other stores, this store is good. They certainly don’t have the rush that comes to stores liek Dick’s so they can give you a lot of attention… at a price though!

Excellent service from a salesperson named Wes. I had a problem with shoes I bought here and he settled it brilliantly — no receipt no BS. Whoever hired him needs to give him a raise because I will be loyal forever now. Selection of products is good, not excellent hence the 4 stars. Keep in mind though, that this is a specialty shop for runners and swimmers so they carry items that are geared toward that. Overall, worth the trip and the few extra bucks to shop here. The true test of a store is how they handle problems and this one passed big time.

The staff is so helpful. They seem to know everything about running, including every injury known to runners. Whatever your problem is, the salespeople have it too and can both relate and help! Bad hip? Plantars fascitis? They’ve got you covered and know how you feel.
Every time I go in for something, despite how small the store is, they have it. Their shoe selection is great, and their prices are in line with everyone else’s, so you don’t have to worry about paying «boutique» prices.
I haven’t had a bad experience yet. I haven’t even had a mediocre experience yet. Now, if only they could make me run an 8-​minute mile!

I’ve never actually been fitted for running shoes before, but after a heinous ankle mishap (that I’m blaming partially on bad shoes) I decided it was time to let someone guide me to what footwear may be the least threatening to my joints. I stopped by Runner’s Edge on my lunch break to peruse possible options and by the time I was through the door and mid-​pivot to the shoe wall, I was greeted and guided. She (sadly I do not recall her name) was extremely knowledgeable and not pushy in any way which is a huge component of the five-​star review. I went through the analysis and questions and the next thing I knew she had 5 different shoes for me to try.
I’m so indecisive, I don’t even think that is the right word to describe me. Yet, within 20 minutes of comparison and my galloping around the store (yes, I could have used the treadmill, but didn’t), she was as patient as when I walked in the door – offering input where she could. Her knowledge and patience actually seemed to expedite my process of elimination. In short, I chose the pair that felt the best to me and after the first good run in a long time, I and my ankles would like to extend our gratitude.

This is the only place I go to buy running shoes. The salespeople spend all the time it takes to get the fit right.

I’ll add that I have now actually worn the shoes to exercise and they are perfect for me.

If you are serious — or even just kinda serious — about running, you must have the right shoe. The Runner’s Edge staff are experts in analyzing your gait and they carry a wide variety of the best running shoes available. They also have all the other apparel and gear you need. The staff was all so helpful when I amped up my running to longer distances. They even organize local running groups, if you don’t want to train alone. Competitive prices, personal attention.

i agree with the previous writer that this place is terrible… the store salespeople won’t even talk to you unless they think you would be spending any money in their store. Go to a different sports store. They’ll carry the selections you are looking for.

Quite the opposite of the previous reviewer, I have always found knowledgeable and friendly salespeople here. They will spend as much time as it takes to find you the right pair of running shoes. They have a decent selection, and good stocking. I have always found the pair I wanted to be available in stock. Nice selection of running accessories, and swimming gear also.

I have «issues».
I admit it. And as I get older, I get more «issues». I’m not one to complain, but between my dry eye problem, night blindness, chronic neck pain and more, I’ve become just a tad «high maintenance». I also have «issues» in finding the perfect rise/​fit in my jeans and pants. But I digress…
The biggest challenge I face is finding really comfortable shoes. I usually try on a minimum of 30 pairs and walk around in them before I find one that is comfortable– even with athletic shoes. I thought maybe I had some kind of oddball feet.
Yesterday I found out that I don’t. In fact, I’m what the shoe experts call «neutral».
I had the good fortune to meet Kathy Bullard at the Health & Fitness Expo at Navy Pier this weekend. She did a complete evaluation of my «gate» and feet. With her expertise, I was fitted with a pair of New Balance shoes that were the most comfortable shoes EVER! They fit perfectly, and yet there was lots of room for my toes to wiggle.
Thank you Kathy– I will be bringing many friends and family to you so that you can share that «voodoo that you do– so well».