running store fitting

[eli]

Hi all, 

I've offically started back in with the C25k program. Running with the stroller is going well (I think!) and I appreciate all your tips. I'm planning to go to get fitted again for shoes this weekend (I know I should have gone before I started running again but we live in the middle of nowhere VT 1/2 mile from Canada so I'm going to Montreal to get fitted). I'm noticing the shoe store is significantly higher than online (even accounting for the difference in Canadian/American dollars). Is it rude/awful if I go to get fitted and they spend all that time helping me, but then I leave without buying anything? Is that bad etiquette? Should I just buy a pair of socks or something? 

Sorry if it's a stupid question!

[sadlebred]

It would be good etiquette to buy the shoes from the running store the first time. You are paying for their time and expertise. While it's "free," they have to pay their employees. For me, I consider it unethical to go, try everything out, spend an hour of the employee's time, and then buy it online to save $10. I'd buy the shoes from the running store the first time and THEN buy them online the 2nd time.

[eli]

Ok- good call. I appreciate the response! In this instance it's a $60 difference, but still you're right!

[Susie]

I do what sadlebred suggested. More pairs than not, I'm just buying a replacement pair online, but I would feel like too much of a jackass to have them spend the time fitting me for a new shoe and then peace out without buying anything. A pair of socks probably would not make me feel better.

[eli]

Oh geez, you guys are so right. I feel like an asshole for even asking the question!!! Hanging head in shame.

[archaeominx]

I agree with the others, it's bad form to waste their time and not give them the sale.

[emuni04]

Jun 13, 2013 13:45:37 GMT -5 sadlebred said:

It would be good etiquette to buy the shoes from the running store the first time. You are paying for their time and expertise. While it's "free," they have to pay their employees. For me, I consider it unethical to go, try everything out, spend an hour of the employee's time, and then buy it online to save $10. I'd buy the shoes from the running store the first time and THEN buy them online the 2nd time.

I agree. You can always buy the same pair online the 2nd time around and save some $$$ then. But if you go to the store, you should definitely buy there vs. writing down the shoe type and buying online.

[shorty20]

Jun 13, 2013 14:00:10 GMT -5 eli said:

Oh geez, you guys are so right. I feel like an asshole for even asking the question!!! Hanging head in shame.

Don't feel bad, it's a valid question.  I agree though, when I got fitted I bought mine there, and then bought later ones online.

[eli]

Jun 13, 2013 14:36:22 GMT -5 shorty20 said:

Jun 13, 2013 14:00:10 GMT -5 eli said:

Oh geez, you guys are so right. I feel like an asshole for even asking the question!!! Hanging head in shame.

Don't feel bad, it's a valid question.  I agree though, when I got fitted I bought mine there, and then bought later ones online.

Thank you, shorty

[gt7301b]

Runnerswarehouse will also do a virtual fiting, so that might be an option as well.

[gt7301b]

Jun 13, 2013 16:06:06 GMT -5 gt7301b said:

Runnerswarehouse will also do a virtual fiting, so that might be an option as well.

Opps, Runningwarehouse.

[eli]

I'm beginning to realize that my first fitting in Montreal- I either lucked out or didn't get a proper fitting. He just watched me run and then gave me a list of shoes that would be good for me. I never even tried any on and then just bought some online. Probably not the best way, but I did run my half injury free, so again just lucky, I think! This time I'll make sure to do a full fitting and purchase them at the store.

[clseale]

Jun 13, 2013 14:36:22 GMT -5 shorty20 said:

Jun 13, 2013 14:00:10 GMT -5 eli said:

Oh geez, you guys are so right. I feel like an asshole for even asking the question!!! Hanging head in shame.

Don't feel bad, it's a valid question.  I agree though, when I got fitted I bought mine there, and then bought later ones online.

Ditto all of this! I've bought a few pairs from them over the years, but the majority of my shoe purchases have been online. They get my fuel purchases & I race their races, so I still support them. If I'm changing to a new style, I buy from them. It's a legitimate question. $60 is a lot of money! 

[kristin]

Don't feel bad -- it's a common question and $60 is a good chunk of change.

I'd also buy the shoes they fit me in, then buy the replacements online.