Footwear

footwear

GETTING FIT FOR SHOES AT FLEET FEET SPORTS

 

How to Choose the Right Running/Walking Shoe
Selecting a shoe is one of the most important equipment choices a runner or walker makes. Here are a few important considerations to help choose a shoe that fits and functions properly.

Be prepared to spend 20 to 45 minutes at Fleet Feet, to allow time to be fit properly and to try on a variety of styles once the specific type of shoe you need is determined. By examining your feet and your old running shoes (if you have them), watching you run or walk, and discussing your fitness history and goals, our knowledgeable staff can guide you to the right shoe type for your feet.

Running shoes are generally divided into three major types: "Neutral," for those who need little additional support; "stability," the broadest category, for those who need a moderate amount of support; and "motion control," shoes with maximum support.
Bring your current running shoes. Examination of wear patterns on the soles can reveal much about an individual's specific biomechanical needs. If you wear orthotics or other special inserts, bring them in as well as they can affect the fit of the shoe.
Bring your running socks. If you don't have running socks, check out our in-store selection. Good running socks are usually made of special acrylics or polyester blends designed to wick moisture, keep feet dry, and prevent blisters. Cotton socks tend to be poor moisture managers: They get wet and stay wet, causing friction which leads to blisters.
Try shoes on towards the end of the day, or after a workout: Feet tend to swell throughout the day and during exercise.
Expect your running or walking shoe to be anywhere from one-half size to two sizes larger than your dress shoes. They're sized differently, and you'll want about a thumb's width of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe. Shoes that are worn too small can result in blisters and black or lost toenails. Also, shoe sizing may vary from brand to brand, and even from style to style within the same brand.

 

THE PERSONAL F.I.T. PROCESS

 Step One: Welcome and Explanation of the Personal F.I.T. Process
Every process has a beginning point, fitting our customers begins with "hello" and an explanation of the Personal F.I.T. Process.

Step Two: Getting to Know You
We take time to ask questions about your current activity, such as how often you run walk, how far and if you have a goal in mind. We also discuss any existing or past injuries and talk about the footwear you currently use.

Step Three: Measurement
Several measurements of each foot help us determine proper sizing. We measure your feet both unweighted (seated) and weighted (standing) measurements as well as different point-to-point measurements for your personalized F.I.T. process.

We aren't doctors and don't pretend to be, but we will take a look at your feet for signs that will help us fit you properly and determine any special needs that you might have.

Step Four: Gait Analysis
We observe as you run or walk a short distance on the tread mill. This helps us understand how you move and the biomechanics of your gait.

Step Five: Fitting and Recommendations
Based on our findings, we will bring out the shoes that may work best for you. We'll carefully inspect the fit and watch as you run or walk in each shoe. We'll discuss the options, provide you with our recommendations and answer any questions.

Step Six: The Decision
This one is all you since you are the only person who knows how the shoes actually feel.

Step Seven: Ready to Go
Now that you've made a decision, we'll talk about how to properly break in your new shoes, help with any other product needs you may have and make sure you're ready to get the best results!