Personalized Shoe Fitting Process
Fit Doctrine:
The Perfect Stride Starts with the Perfect Fit for YOU!
Looking for the best running or walking shoe for you? Look no further than Rock City Running! Our expert staff offers truly personalized shopping experiences, leveraging a unique blend of practical running experience, dedication to current fitting principles, and cutting-edge fit technology to help you find your perfect stride.
From High School Phenoms to Marathoners and Circuit Racers Our team comprises a diverse crew of passionate runners and former runners, including high school coaches, collegiate athletes, seasoned ultrarunners, marathoners, circuit racers, and masters runners and walkers. With expertise ranging from shorter distances to grueling endurance events, we've tackled every terrain and intimately understand the unique needs of athletes at every level.
A Continually Evolving Approach, Rooted in Real-World Experience Book knowledge alone can't recreate the nuances of a proper fit. That's why every member of our staff is an active or former runner, trained by our most seasoned fitters – veterans whose passion for fitting dates back to 2005. We continually study emerging techniques, blending them with our own hard-earned experiences to provide individualized solutions precisely tailored to your needs.
Trust the Experts Who Combine Practical Experience with Current Best Practices Whether you're a beginner searching for that first life-changing pair or an elite athlete seeking an upgrade, trust Rock City Running's unparalleled approach. We'll take the time to understand your running style, analyze your gait, discuss your goals, and leverage our unique expertise to guide you toward your perfect shoe from our curated selection of top brands.
With our proprietary fit technology and seasoned staff's experience, you can be assured your one-on-one fitting will result in a personalized recommendation you can run with confidence. Don't settle for off-the-shelf options or fitters who have never experienced running – visit Rock City Running for an unmatched personalized shopping experience that sets us apart.
Our problem-solving technique includes:
Gather the Facts
Assessing Your Needs:
- We start by understanding your specific activities, whether it's running, walking, gym workouts, or work. This helps us identify the right type of shoe for your unique requirements.
Injury History:
- We discuss any previous injuries or ongoing issues you might have experienced. This allows us to recommend shoes that provide the necessary support and prevent further injuries.
Reviewing Past Shoes:
- We encourage you to bring in any old pairs of shoes that didn’t work for you. By analyzing these, we can better understand what went wrong and what to avoid in your next pair.
Fitness Goals:
- We take into account your fitness goals, whether you're training for a marathon, looking to increase your walking distance, or aiming to enhance your gym performance. This ensures we recommend shoes that align with your aspirations and support your journey.
Run/Walk Analysis
Gait Analysis:
- We begin by assessing your natural walking or running gait. This can be done either in your sock feet or by providing you with a pair of neutral shoes to try on.
Video Analysis: (Optional if needed)
- Utilizing advanced video analysis tools, we capture your movements and analyze how your feet land and roll with each step. We can meticulously review the footage frame by frame to detect even the smallest details.
Assessing Foot Mechanics:
- Through this detailed analysis, we determine whether your feet roll outward (supinate), roll inward (pronate), or remain neutral. This insight is crucial in identifying the type of shoes that will provide the necessary stability, cushioning, or support.
This thorough evaluation helps us recommend footwear that optimally supports your natural gait, enhancing comfort and performance while reducing the risk of injury.
Fitting
Tailored Shoe Selection:
- Based on the results of your gait analysis and your individual preferences, our team will present you with several different shoes that match your foot type and activity needs.
Trying On Options:
- We encourage you to take your time during this crucial step. Try on each pair and assess how they feel on your feet. Consider the fit, comfort, and support each shoe provides.
Test Runs:
- Take each pair for a test run, either on our in-store treadmill or down the sidewalk. This helps you experience how the shoes perform in a real-world setting.
Comparison:
- Compare each pair carefully. Notice the differences in fit, cushioning, and stability. This thorough comparison ensures you find the perfect match.
Our goal is for you to leave our store loving your new shoes, feeling confident and comfortable in them. We are committed to finding the best fit for your unique needs.
Personal Choice
Guided Recommendations:
- Our experienced team will offer expert suggestions based on your specific needs and preferences.
Empowered Decision-Making:
- While we provide guidance and recommendations, the final choice is entirely yours. We encourage you to consider our advice, but ultimately, you have the freedom to select the shoes that feel best for you.
This approach ensures that you are fully informed and confident in your decision, resulting in a personalized and satisfying footwear experience.
Insoles
Inserts:
- Did you know that no two feet are alike? Embracing this philosophy, we offer a wide array of inserts to cater to your unique foot structure and needs.
Top-Rated Orthotic Options:
- We feature Aetrex inserts, renowned as the #1 orthotic system on the market, providing exceptional comfort and support. In addition to Aetrex, we carry other popular insoles, including Powerstep and 10-Second Flat Feet.
Customized Comfort and Support:
- Whether you seek the comfort, support, and quality of a custom-made insert without the custom price, we have options for you. Our selection ensures that you can find the perfect insert to enhance your footwear experience, offering superior support and comfort tailored to your needs.
By incorporating these inserts into your personalized fitting, we ensure that you achieve the highest level of comfort and support, making every step you take more enjoyable.
Happy Feet, Happy Runner!!