I know how hard it is to find the right fit or comfort level when it comes to athletic shoes. Whether you’re looking for a running shoe or hiking, or just walking, it’s important to find one that will last you awhile and that will be comfortable. There are probably hundreds of running shoe stores in Chicago, so I’ve narrowed it down to 8 of the best ones. There are some obvious ones like Nike and Famous Footwear but also some community driven ones that have an impressive selection.
Fleet Feet
1706 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614
At Fleet Feet, you will find a welcoming environment where runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities receive unparalleled service and support. The mission of this running shoe store in Chicago is to help you find the right ”FIT” in every facet of your active lifestyle. Whether you walk, run, or simply need a good fitting pair of shoes, the educators at Fleet Feet will work with you to evaluate your foot’s gait and natural biomechanics to help you select a shoe that offers the best fit and function for you. Tina from Sports Rambler is a huge advocate of the team and Fleet Feet and recommends the visit.
Nike Chicago
669 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
I don’t think I really need to go into detail about Nike. We all know and love this brand and it’s clear that they dominate the athletic shoe market. This sport shoes store in Chicago offers any kind of product for any sporting occasion. So whether you’re a runner, walker, cyclist, or just want a trendy pair of high tops, Nike is the place to go.
Running Excels
10328 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60643
Running Excels serves the south side of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. It is a specialty running store that features high quality athletic footwear, apparel and accessories. They also can share their knowledge of running, through education on injury prevention and recovery, proper training, nutrition, etc.
Famous Footwear
1730 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Famous Footwear, like Nike, is another running shoe store in Chicago that has dominated the market. They have shoes for any occasion, not just sports. They carry brands like Adidas, Nike, Converse, Crocs, Birkenstock, Vans, etc. So if you’re looking for a place where you can shop for athletic shoes but also everyday shoes, this is the place.
Commonwealth Running Company
1631 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
Commonwealth isn’t exactly in Chicago, but if you live in or around the city, you’ll know Evanston. Commonwealth Running Company is a community-first running company that will take what local running stores do best and utilize technology to enhance that experience by offering everything a runner needs in a seamless and comprehensive way. Founded by a distance runner from Chicago, this grassroots running company will look to outfit and supply runners with gear that enhances their running experience, and in doing so, will look to grow the sport and expand a market.
Murphy’s Fit
513 Dempster St, Evanston, IL 60201
Just like the previous store, this one is in Evanston. I’m not too familiar with this store but it has a ton of great reviews on Yelp. They seem to carry a lot of running shoes as well and brands like Asics, New Balance and Mizuno.
Road Runner Sports
1435 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, IL 60642
At Road Runner Sports you can try, touch, feel and test out a huge selection of running, cross training, trail and gym gear. They’ve got 116 brands and countless colors and sizes of running shoes, electronics, and fitness apparel. You can choose from brands like Adidas, Altra, ASICS, Brooks, HOKA ONE ONE, Merell, Mizuno, New Balance, Nike, OluKai, On, Reebok, Salomon, Saucony, and Under Armour. They also stock some newer brands like Hyperrice, Goodr Sunglasses, On, and R-Gear. They’ve got everything you need for running, training, everyday activity, trail, hiking, and even kid’s shoes.
Alamo Shoes
5321 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Alamo Shoes has been a family-owned shoe store providing family-focused superior service since 1973. In those years, Alamo Shoes has thrived on providing personalized service for Northsiders, Southsiders, suburbanites, people from across the country and the globe. It is a staple of Chicago’s north side Andersonville neighborhood. They carry all the popular brands and even ones that are just starting to gain popularity.
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