running shoe store locally?

[45 new shoes]

I am brand new to running- in week 3 of the couch to 5K program on cool running. I got running shoes at Academy but think I need to get my foot fitted for a shoe specifically suited to my running. Where is the closest good running store to us in Gulfport or closeby? So far so good with no injuries, and I want to keep it that way. Thanks!

[jasonbebright]

well as far as i know there is a couple in NO and one in pensacola,,there is one in Mobile but i wouldn't say it's a true running store.an if anyone knows of one closer I'd like to know myself.

[45 new shoes]

Hi Jason, thanks-
We go to P'cola about once a month, so I'll check there. What's the name of the place? Do you know? Thanks a bunch.
Sally

[J2732]

I've heard about Running Wild in Pensacola, and there's also Varsity Sports in Mandeville or Baton Rouge.

[rockola]

Do you ever get to Hattiesburg? If so, go to the Soccer Locker on Hardy St. just past the Turtle Creek Mall. They will video you running on a treadmill, critique your running style, then advise you on what type of running shoe is best for you. Being new to running I would advise you to do this. Running in the wrong type of shoe is a sure way to get injured.

[45 new shoes]

I was just about to ask about Hattiesburg- thanks! My best friend lives there and I go often. That's perfect. I'd really like to have my run evaluated now while I'm new to this and can "train" myself to run correctly for less injury.Thanks so much for the tip!

[jasonbebright]

thanks for the info about hattiesburg,,,,my wife to be needs to have that done and i was looking for a place to get it done.she works for USM so it will work for her to. thanks again

[joeyda_man]

The Varsity Sports in Mandeville is a great place and worth a trip over there (it's just over an hour door-to-door). They've got a great selection of shoes, apparel and gear. Ryan Green, the manager, has his PhD in Exercise Physiology or Kinesiology or something similar and he's an excellent runner so he really knows his stuff. PLUS, I've talked to them and since it is a bit of a drive, if you tell 'em you drove over from Mississippi and show them your driver's license they'll give you a 15% discount!

[llpylate]

Last year when I went to Soccer Locker in Hattiesburg, I mentioned I was from the coast and they gave me either a 10% or 15% discount, I can't remember which. They also gave me several cards worth that same percentage off on my next shoe purchases too!

[J2732]

Joey, if I show them my Colorado driver's license will they give me an even bigger discount? Maybe we can convince them to offer a military discount, too? I've had several people ask me where a decent running shoe store is, so if you need to get the word out about any of these places, I could see if I can get some brochures posted at our Health and Wellness Center and maybe the gyms on base. A lot of the people who go to the HAWC are working on becoming better runners for the PT test, so most could benefit from a gait analysis and some good shoes.

[joeyda_man]

That's a great idea, I'll certainly check with Ryan to see if that's something he can do and I'll post up here when I get an answer. Also, we may take you up on posting some flyers up on the HAWC bulletin boards! Thanks!

[runninrn]

My husband and I have been to both Soccer Locker and Sports 'n More in Foley, AL. We were much more impressed with Sports 'n More. They sponsor the Army and AF marathons and are very knowledgable, the owner and manager are both avid runners and very friendly. Their prices are also quite a bit better than Soccer Locker- even with their discount. It's a bit out of the way but makes for a nice day trip and there's always Lamberts Cafe and the outlet mall...

[JeffPT]

Just got back from Varsity sports in Mandeville... is only 50 min from Gulfport. Excellent store with reasonable prices and very knowledgable staff... strongly recommend... bought 2 pair.... one was 50% off and got 15% discount for mentioning being from coast on top of it all.. got a free t shirt for each pair too... how can you beat that?

[Nancy043]

Just a quick note about Sports N More. This is where I buy all of my running shoes and I've never stepped foot in their store. My first experience with them was at their booth at Azalea Trail many years ago. Their sales staff was extremely knowledgeable and sold me my first pair in a very long line of Asic DS Trainers. They sell many brands, but for Asic wearers they have a very wide selection. They also offer very low prices, next day delivery, no sales tax and no shipping charges. You can call their 800 number one day and have new shoes on your front portch by noon the next day.

Nancy

[Leonard Vergunst]

I agree with you Nancy. Ordering by phone from Sports N More (251-943-5353) & the next day free delivery (to your doorstep) is the best way to go.
Just find a shoe that works well for you and keep ordering the same shoe and size, as they wear out.