Running shoes online

April 30, 2008 6:22 AM

Looking for particularly good prices online for running shoes, if such exist. Also, general advice on the subject, maybe.

I've been a casual runner (30 minutes, 2-4 times a week) for many years. I've never bought a pair of shoes that didn't suit me fine. The clerks at the shoe store I've bought from in the past have always told me that I have "neutral" feet.

Money's tight right now, but my old shoes are getting hella worn out. So I'm mostly looking for the best price I can find. I'm fine with ordering another pair of the Asics I have right now. Any websites you're particularly pleased with, especially in the price department?

Also, if there are any compelling "do not do not do not order running shoes online" arguments, I'm open to hearing them. I do plan on training for a marathon this fall, and when that starts I'm planning on hitting my usual store. Thanks!

posted by 2or3whiskeysodas to sports, hobbies, & recreation (12 comments total)

have you checked ebay? you might get last years model ( or even older) but there are plenty of reputible shoe sellers with some good deals.

also check out places like REI OUTLET the selection isn't huge, but they usually have some smokin deals, especially if you don't have special width requirements
posted by Mr_Chips at 6:37 AM on April 30

I would suggest looking for unsold, last year's model shoes. Much like when you buy a previous year new car and get anywhere from 10-20% off the sticker price, you can find shoes at stores and online that didn't sell for whatever reason. They may even be as much as 50% price reduction.

On preview, agreeing with Mr_chips
posted by netbros at 6:41 AM on April 30

FWIW, I *just* bought the same shoe I had (Brooks Adrenaline 7) from Endless for about $15 less than at the running store a year or so ago. I'm a casual runner, like you, but I pronate a lot so I need more support. I got them last night and tried them on briefly....the model name is the same and they felt right (stiffer, of course, but right) even though the colors are different. If you know what shoe and size you want/need, I think online is a good option.
posted by foxydot at 6:49 AM on April 30

Roadrunner has always come through for me. Check out their fit guarantee and low prices.
posted by caddis at 6:50 AM on April 30

I don't see any issue with ordering another pair of shoes that you already know work for you. I would note that there are people who find the changes between the next years Asics of the same line unbearable, so tread carefully there. I can tell the difference in the fit, but I don't really mind. For me, 2100s were the best, 2110s would do, 2120s are almost as good as 2100s, and I haven't tried the 2130s since I stocked up on 2120s before they changed it again! (In fact, 2100s had a time where they cost more than the 2110s since so many people objected to them.)
posted by advicepig at 6:51 AM on April 30

I think you're fine buying them online. As long as you've already been fitted for the right shoes, know your exact size and model number, there's nothing wrong with buying them online to save some $$$. Since you know your model and size, you'll likely get the right fit and everything will be a-ok.

The reason I prefer to buy mine in a shop rather than online is because I really like my neighborhood running store. I pay a little more than I would online, but they're located just a few blocks away and are a small mom & pop store. If it was not for this shop, I’d buy my running shoes online too.

Unfortunately I can't reccomend any good sites for you - I'd likely just use the Google products search engine to try to find some good prices that way, or search for some running related web forums and ask there, too.
posted by xotis at 8:07 AM on April 30

retailmenot.com, also, footlocker & footaction have coupons for 30% off starting tomorrow floating around.
posted by cashman at 8:09 AM on April 30

Sierra Trading Post has good prices on Asics running shoes. I buy the same Asics shoes over and over again. If you plan to train for a marathon, it's worth upgrading.
posted by Andy's Gross Wart at 8:37 AM on April 30

I would suggest looking for unsold, last year's model shoes.

Overstock.com is great for this. A few years back, I found a style (Brooks) I really liked, and the next year bought a few pairs online for half price...I still have an unused set in my closet. It's a very good feeling.

(Semi-unrelated tip: when you start training for that marathon, you'll want to buy running shoes a size larger. Your feet will "spread" slightly from the impact while going long-distance.)
posted by kittyprecious at 9:05 AM on April 30

Runbargains.com has the best prices on running gear I've seen anywhere. Selection is limited but you should be able to find a neutral shoe there. I picked up quite a few pairs of shirts and shorts from there in my time and was very pleased .
posted by PFL at 9:14 AM on April 30

And for what it's worth, I use a neutral shoe as well. Ran my first marathon on Saturday in the Mizuno Wave Rider 11. I really dig the shoe, but it's a highly individual thing.
posted by PFL at 9:19 AM on April 30

I usually buy at endless.com - but hunt all over the place for the cheapest price. Endless gives 110% money back guarantee if you find a lower price. Essentially, you're guaranteed to get 10% off the lowest price, next day shipping and free shipping both ways.
posted by 26.2 at 10:59 PM on April 30