When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Road Runner Sports
Why Road Runner Sports is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Road Runner Sports (RRS) is a premier retail company specializing in running and walking shoes, apparel, and fitness accessories. Founded in 1983 by Mike Gotfredson, it has grown from a garage startup into a major business with 47 retail locations across nine states. The stores average around 8,500 square feet and are equipped with specialized features such as gait-analysis machines, running coaches, custom orthotics fittings, and test-run areas. This comprehensive setup makes RRS not just a store but a hub for runners and fitness enthusiasts to improve their performance and find the perfect athletic gear. RRS carries a wide range of top brands including adidas, Asics, Brooks, New Balance, and Nike, ensuring a broad selection to meet diverse preferences and needs. They also emphasize personalized customer service with technology-driven shoe assessments and fitting, both in-store and online. The VIP Fitness Family membership offers perks like discounts, rewards, and extended guarantees, enhancing the customer loyalty experience. With an annual revenue exceeding $200 million and a strong remote contact center, RRS stands out as a reliable and customer-focused retailer ideal for meeting up with friends who share a passion for fitness and quality sports gear.
Here's what people think of Road Runner Sports
As of recent, Road Runner Sports holds a 4.5-star rating based on 386 reviews.
Customer reviews of Road Runner Sports highlight its strong reputation for quality products and exceptional personalized service. Many users praise the knowledgeable staff who provide one-on-one shoe fittings and expert advice, often citing the gait analysis and customized orthotics as major plus points. Positive reviews frequently mention the extensive variety of running shoes and apparel available, as well as the benefits of joining the VIP Fitness Family membership, which adds value through discounts and rewards. Furthermore, customers appreciate the seamless experience across both retail outlets and online shopping platforms, noting that personalized service is maintained throughout. On the other hand, some negative reviews revolve around occasional issues such as limited stock on certain shoe models, occasional delays in shipping, and varying experiences with customer service responsiveness. A few customers have noted that the pricing can be on the higher side compared to other retailers. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains strongly positive, with many reviewers recommending Road Runner Sports for its commitment to customer satisfaction and quality athletic products. In conclusion, Road Runner Sports is widely regarded as a trustworthy and expert resource for runners and walkers seeking tailored shopping experiences and top-tier running gear.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
TNH 204
Excellent customer service here. Plenty of staff and all were attentive and engaged 1:1. Aidan was knowledgeable and even though the particular shoe I wanted was not in-store he provided a shoe fitting and matched me with some other great options.
Juichin Alcantara
I keep coming back for their wonderful service. They helped me try on various kinds of running shoes, even the most popular racer shoes. I love how knowledgeable their reps are so I can get the type of shoes that fit my training purposes. Love their reward program, too.
Nikki Blake
Great experience! We found shoes that we didn’t choose only because of the smart individual that helped us. He brought out three pairs by different brands as well as the requested shoe. It was night and day and my step-mom is ready for her trip!
Tiffany P.
Shout out to Aidan and folks who helped us, with utmost patience, with a foot analysis and shoe fitting right before closing. Very much appreciated you taking the time and staying late! We'll be back.
Martin Parley
Perfect experience. Staff was helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. They worked patiently to find me the perfect shoe. Shop was clean and organized.. And they carry the brands I need.
How to reach Road Runner Sports
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Website: None
Why Road Runner Sports may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Road Runner Sports with your friends? Because this is not just any running gear store; it’s an experience designed to bring people together around a shared passion for fitness, running, and community. Whether your group consists of serious runners, casual joggers, or fitness enthusiasts, Road Runner Sports offers an inviting environment where you can connect, learn, and gear up for your next adventure. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 386 reviews, the store has clearly earned the trust and loyalty of its customers. The friendly, knowledgeable staff provide personalized shoe fittings using advanced technology to ensure everyone finds the perfect fit, avoiding injury and enhancing comfort. Being open seven days a week and offering a large selection across multiple locations means you can easily schedule a meetup when it suits your group. Beyond shopping, Road Runner Sports organizes social and athletic events like group runs, training sessions, and themed adventure runs that make gathering here genuinely fun and motivating. This combination of expert service, community spirit, and a welcoming space makes Road Runner Sports a perfect rallying point for friends and family who want to bond through healthier, more active lifestyles.
What activities can you do at Road Runner Sports with a group? First and foremost, you can experience their revolutionary Shoe Dog Shoe Fit Analysis, which is a fast, free session where Fit Experts analyze your foot biomechanics to recommend the ideal shoe and custom insoles. This is a great group activity because each member can get personalized advice, and afterwards you can compare your results, discuss shoe preferences, and even plan group runs with your new gear. The Insiders VIP program adds another layer, allowing you to test shoes over 90 days, meaning you and your friends can return to Road Runner Sports multiple times to tweak your choices or pick up accessories together. Beyond fittings, the store hosts community-based events like VIP parties, product launches, and team nights that are perfect for groups wanting a social fitness vibe. Their Adventure Run series is a scavenger hunt-style group run that adds fun challenges during the workout, fostering camaraderie and excitement. This is ideal for fitness groups or families with older kids who want to mix competition, exploration, and training in one event. Lastly, educational training sessions with expert coaches provide structured workouts and injury prevention tips, making your meetup productive and safe.
Why is Road Runner Sports the perfect place for a group meetup? Its expert staff and technology-driven approach make it a one-stop facility for footwear, apparel, and fitness gear needs. Meeting friends here means you get personalized attention, with staff ready to serve everyone’s unique running profiles at the same time. Since the store supports a wide range of brands—over 116 prominent names including Nike, Brooks, ASICS, HOKA ONE ONE, and more—it caters to all preferences and budgets, making it easy for groups with diverse taste to find something suitable. The custom arch support insoles and on-site sports bra fittings add specialty services you won’t find everywhere. The comfortable, accessible retail environment is large enough for easy movement without feeling crowded, encouraging socializing as you shop and try on gear. Multiple locations in California, including Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Studio City, and Costa Mesa, provide convenient hubs for groups depending on where you live or plan to meet. The store's commitment to community health and charitable programs creates a positive, uplifting ambiance that makes group visits feel meaningful beyond just shopping.
What kind of expert guidance and technology does Road Runner Sports offer for groups? Road Runner Sports revolutionizes the way customers find running shoes with their 3D Perfect Fit System, particularly highlighted at their Santa Monica store. This system uses a 3D Fit Drone powered by advanced scanning technology capturing six key measurements of your feet, including length, width, arch height, instep, and heel width. Within minutes, your group members can get scientifically matched running shoes, insoles, and socks, dramatically cutting down guesswork and discomfort. The Shoe Dog analysis further complements this with biomechanical feedback and injury prevention advice, ensuring everyone in your group runs safer and more comfortably. When coming as a group, these personalized fittings can also spark conversations about different foot types, experiences, and best shoe practices, making your meetup both educational and engaging. Additionally, the availability of on-the-spot custom insole crafting is an added perk that can address specific foot support needs for each person, making the store uniquely suited to individual and group needs alike.
How does Road Runner Sports keep your group engaged beyond shopping? Road Runner Sports makes fitness fun with a robust lineup of community events throughout the year. Their VIP Family program includes exclusive invitations to parties and product launches where groups can mingle, try new gear together, and stay motivated. The Adventure Run series combines running with a scavenger hunt, which is a fantastic group activity that blends fitness with interactive fun and friendly competition, ideal for friends or families. There are also regular team nights and group runs hosted by the community store locations, providing structured opportunities for your meetup to be active and social. Training sessions led by fitness experts help groups set goals, improve form, and stay injury-free, inviting group members to learn collectively and support one another. This blend of social, competitive, and health-oriented events makes Road Runner Sports more than a store—it becomes a hub for active living and friendship building.
Why choose Road Runner Sports if you care about giving back? This business doesn’t just focus on selling gear; they are deeply committed to community involvement and charitable causes. Their Athletes Helping Athletes program helps kids with disabilities get access to handcycles and bikes, making running and cycling accessible to all. When you gather your friends or family for a meetup here, you are also supporting a company that invests in making a positive social impact. Their VIP Family program and events often center around these philanthropic efforts, allowing groups to participate in or learn about ways to give back through fitness. This added dimension creates a feel-good factor for your meetup, where your group can enjoy gear shopping and socializing while supporting meaningful causes and fostering inclusivity in sports.
What makes shopping at Road Runner Sports a reliable and enjoyable experience for groups? Beyond the engaging activities and expert fitting services, the store’s wide product range and flexible shopping policies ensure convenience for everyone in your party. With over 116 brands available, including specialized running and trail shoes, apparel like their exclusive R-Gear line, hydration and nutrition products, electronics, injury recovery tools, and accessories, every group member can find exactly what they need under one roof. The 90-day VIP Test Run policy alleviates the pressure of immediate decisions by letting you test shoes over months—super valuable when shopping as a group where opinions can vary. Staff are highly trained, attentive, and eager to help every visitor, creating a pleasant environment where questions are welcomed and expertise is freely shared. The store is also accessible and open seven days a week, providing plenty of opportunity to schedule meetups that fit everyone’s busy calendars.
In summary, Road Runner Sports is an outstanding destination for friends, families, or fitness groups looking to connect over shared health and wellness goals. Its mix of expert foot analysis technology, extensive product selections across top brands, engaging community events, and strong social responsibility make it an ideal meetup spot. Whether you are preparing for a race, starting a fitness lifestyle, or just want to hang out with active friends, Road Runner Sports offers an atmosphere full of support, motivation, and fun. Rallying here means much more than shopping—you create experiences, deepen friendships, and set the foundation for a healthier life together.