When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta 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 is a premier retail company specializing in shoes and apparel tailored for running and walking enthusiasts. Founded in 1983 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the company has grown to operate 47 stores across nine states, including California, Washington, Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, New Jersey, Virginia, and Georgia. With a workforce of around 720 employees and annual revenues exceeding $200 million, Road Runner Sports offers a comprehensive selection of running shoes, athletic apparel, and fitness accessories. This business stands out as a great place to meet up with friends who share an active lifestyle, thanks to its wide variety of top brands and expert foot analysis services that help customers find their ideal fit. Their VIP Fitness Family membership enhances the shopping experience by offering discounts, rewards, and extended guarantees for a modest annual fee. Additionally, Road Runner Sports supports its customers with knowledgeable fitness experts and dedicated service, including a contact center staffed by over 100 remote agents to ensure personalized assistance.
Here's what people think of Road Runner Sports
As of recent, Road Runner Sports holds a 4.8-star rating based on 616 reviews.
Customer reviews for Road Runner Sports reflect a generally positive reception, with an overall high rating near 4.8 out of 5 based on over 600 reviews, attesting to customer satisfaction primarily centered on product quality and expert service. Positive feedback often highlights the helpfulness of the foot analysis technology, the excellent selection of running shoes from leading brands, and the benefits of the VIP membership program, which many users find valuable for discounts and rewards. Many customers appreciate the personalized shopping experience and knowledgeable staff. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to issues such as billing disputes related to the VIP membership program, order fulfillment delays, and occasional lack of staff knowledge or limited in-store stock. Customer complaints have cited unauthorized charges and difficulties in cancellation, contributing to dissatisfaction in certain instances. Despite these concerns, many customers continue to shop there due to the quality selections and specialized services offered. Overall, while a minority of customers report challenges, the predominant sentiment is positive with many loyal patrons valuing the in-store and customer support experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kamari Woods
Super helpful staff. If you're serious about getting into running or simply improving your experience I would recommend doing the on site test that they offer in-store. Super fast and easy. Got my feet properly measured, running analysis / diagnosis which is conducted through a treadmill run, and custom insoles made on-site. After test/measurements are conducted multiple shoe recommendations for your specific needs are had.
B “Real”
I recently visited Roadrunner Sports, and I have to say, it was a good experience. I usually avoid going into stores close to closing time, but I had already done my research and knew exactly what I needed. Even though the store was busy and I had to wait a few minutes, it was totally worth it once I was helped by Justin. He was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and gave me honest feedback based on how I planned to use the shoes. He really took the time to understand my needs and guided me toward the best options. I walked out with two great pairs that I’m really happy with and already looking forward to going back for future purchases. Thanks again to Justin!
Jim Peavy
VIP program really paid off in this case. Ordered ON men’s model 6 after wearing the model 5 for some time. Same size but new model 6 sizing was smaller. Wore the 6 off and on for about a month and finally took them back to the store with my story that same shoe, same size but don’t fit. They said the model 6 run smaller (so I’m not crazy). Swapped for different shoe, no problem. Have been VIP for years and this is only one of the many benefits.
Alan Humphries
Jarred was an amazing help and described in detail what was needed for my foot style and weight distribution. He got me into a pair of brooks ghost 17 and I couldn't be any happier
Michael Farrar
Okay, so after like 10 years I finally had to exchange a pair shoes that weren’t working right. When I tell you it was painless, it was painless! The gentleman who took direct care of me, was perfect in every way, from greeting me at the door, making sure I had several options to fall back on to getting me out the door feeling like the reason why I shop here makes sense. I did not catch his name, but the entire team was wonderful, much appreciated. Thank you all very much.
How to reach Road Runner Sports
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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 shoe store — it’s a destination that brings together runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts for more than just shopping. With an outstanding rating of 4.8 from over 600 reviews, Road Runner Sports has earned its reputation as America’s premier running shoe and gear hub. It’s a place where you and your friends can experience expert fitting services using cutting-edge technology designed to find the perfect fit for every foot. The store invites you to share the excitement of discovering shoes that not only feel great but can actually improve your running performance and comfort. The atmosphere encourages community as you learn about each other’s unique running styles through professional gait analysis and 3D foot scans. For groups of friends or family who value health, wellness, and a bit of fun competition, Road Runner Sports is an ideal rallying point. It combines personalized service, high-quality products, and a welcoming environment that makes meeting up as much about connection as it is about fitness.
What activities can you enjoy at Road Runner Sports that make it ideal for a group meetup?
Road Runner Sports offers a range of interactive and engaging activities that turn a visit into a shared experience for your group. First and foremost is the Perfect Fit Zone, a signature in-store service that uses a revolutionary 3D foot scanning technology. In just minutes, you and your friends can discover detailed metrics such as arch height, pronation type, instep and heel width, and more. This detailed assessment allows everyone in your group to understand their unique biomechanics and needs, which is a rare and valuable experience in any retail setting. It’s a fantastic activity because it encourages conversation and mutual support as everyone tries on shoes perfectly matched to their feet.
Following the scan, you receive personalized recommendations from hundreds of shoe models and brands tailored to your specific measurements and running goals. This is perfect for groups because trying on shoes together and sharing feedback mimics the supportive and social aspects of running clubs or fitness groups. Beyond shoes, Road Runner Sports offers custom insoles and specialized socks to complement your new gear, meaning the experience covers your complete foot comfort and performance needs.
Additionally, Road Runner Sports hosts knowledgeable fit experts who not only help identify the right footwear but also provide guidance on running form and injury prevention. For a group meetup, this expert advice session can be informative and motivating. You can engage in discussions about running techniques, pain prevention, and fitness strategies, making your visit both social and educational. These personalized consultations make the store feel like a community hub rather than just a shopping location.
Why is Road Runner Sports perfect for group meetups beyond the fitting and shopping experience?
Road Runner Sports is ideal for group gatherings because it combines an inviting atmosphere with benefits that extend after your visit. With more than 780,000 VIP family members, joining their VIP program during your group meetup offers everyone exclusive rewards like cash-back, free shipping, and potentially significant savings on apparel, gear, and footwear. This membership reinforces the feeling of belonging to a community and encourages returning as a group for future gear upgrades or running events.
The store’s long-standing history and expansion — 48 locations across the United States, including key states like California, Colorado, and New Jersey — make it a trusted and familiar spot for many runners who want to meet up with friends locally or while traveling. It’s run like a family business, which imbues a welcoming vibe suitable for social gatherings and fitness-focused parties.
Moreover, the store supports a wide range of activities close to the physical product experience, from learning gait and stride through video analysis to understanding foot health related to common issues like plantar fasciitis or bunions. This comprehensive approach means groups with varying interests and fitness levels can find something valuable and engaging. It promotes health and wellness discussions, turning your meetup into a mini wellness workshop for friends and family.
Finally, Road Runner Sports frequently updates their inventory with the latest technology in running shoes and gear from top brands, allowing groups to discover and test new products together. This adds an element of excitement and discovery to your meetup, as everyone shares their opinions and experiences trying new models. Discovering cutting-edge gear as a group strengthens your bond and supports mutual fitness goals.
How does Road Runner Sports enhance the social experience of fitness for friends and family?
The social experience at Road Runner Sports is deeply rooted in its community-centric approach. Everything from fit consultations to post-purchase rewards draws shoppers closer together around a shared passion for running and walking. When you and your friends come to Road Runner Sports, you’re tapping into a vibrant, knowledgeable family of fitness enthusiasts, many of whom have been customers for years because of the personal touch.
Having trained fit experts on hand encourages group participation and questions. These experts deliver tailored advice that respects individual fitness goals, injuries, and preferences, which makes interactions more meaningful. Walking through the shoe selection and trying on new gear is a collective experience enhanced by shared enthusiasm, encouragement, and often friendly competition. This dynamic builds camaraderie and makes fitness-related meetups much more enjoyable than a typical shopping trip.
Participation in the VIP rewards program also adds a social dimension beyond the store visit by connecting you to a nationwide community of runners. Sharing tips, successes, and running milestones with a wider group through this network can motivate everyone to set and achieve new fitness goals together. This ongoing relationship with Road Runner Sports encourages meetups not just at the store but also on running paths, race events, and wellness activities, extending the social impact well beyond a single gathering.
What makes Road Runner Sports stand out among other running and athletic gear stores for hosting group events?
Road Runner Sports stands out because it marries technology, expertise, community, and customer focus in a setting that feels welcoming and purposeful. The Perfect Fit Zone offers one of the most comprehensive and scientifically backed foot fitting experiences available retail, which is often a rare find in other athletic stores. While other shops may offer shoes, Road Runner Sports offers a solution to improving your running experience through technology-driven customization.
The store’s philosophy, emphasizing long-term foot health and performance, plays well into group dynamics because everyone wants to avoid injury and run more comfortably. Hosting a meetup here means everyone leaves with something uniquely matched to their needs, which is a compelling outcome any group desires after gathering.
Customer testimonials frequently highlight the attentive, no-pressure service and the extensive knowledge of staff, which enhances the group shopping experience and makes everyone feel valued. The family-run aspect of the business helps it maintain a friendly, informal vibe where questions and group discussions are welcomed rather than rushed.
Furthermore, Road Runner Sports’ extensive product range—from running shoes for trail, road, and track to walking shoes and fitness apparel—means there is something suitable for people of all preferences and fitness levels. This inclusivity makes it easy for mixed groups (from casual walkers to serious runners) to find common ground and support each other’s fitness journeys.
All these elements combined make Road Runner Sports the perfect venue for groups to come together, learn, shop, and grow their fitness interests collectively, making it much more than just a retail store but a hub for social fitness gatherings.