A Runner's Mind - San Francisco, California

Kara Hall

Ben helped us out today, he was helpful and knowledgeable! Shoes were a great deal, very happy with our visit, can’t say nothing but positive things about this store! Great selection of shoes as well! Will definitely be back!

Jake Bernstein

Frances was super welcoming, patient and thorough. My partner did a full fit test and tried on 6 pairs before finding a new shoe.

Helen

Had an underwhelming experience buying new running shoes here. The employee who was helping me was distracted throughout nearly the entire process by the TV behind us, but I trusted his expertise as he seemed knowledgable at the time. In retrospect, I'm not sure I should have, as I walked out of the store with a pair of shoes that I've now realized are both too short and too narrow, causing me foot pain on runs. I was also pressured into buying $50 insoles, despite the fact that I didn't find them a clear benefit to my running experience (and said as much).

Will not be returning to this store again other than to return everything I've purchased, as none of what I've bought has led to a pleasant running experience for me. I also feel that some of this store's practices are gimmicky ways to buy customer trust without leading to better recommendations--for example, the arch analysis appears to be their way of convincing you to buy insoles, which I don't think they should be pushing onto everyone who walks into the store. The gait analysis also seemed thoughtful, but at the end of the day, I didn't get a shoe that actually fits my foot well-- which is the most fundamental part of shoe selection, and which other running stores are able to get right without the multitude of analyses that this place does.

I do appreciate the store's return policy + they did help me find a shoe that I enjoyed the feel of, even if the sizing was wrong. I also could believe the employee helping me had a bad day or something, but I'm not really keen on giving this place another try if there are other options in SF.

Edited to add: I came back a while later to return my shoes, and they were not particularly friendly. Got the impression that they prefer a certain type of clientele. Will not be returning

Karl Yang

Before I came here, I wasted so much time buying shoes that didn't fit, returning them, doing more research, and going in circles. Emmanuel not only helped us find shoes that fit great for our individual running styles, but even gave us some tips on how to improve form and run better. This was the most fun I've had while shoe shopping. Recommend coming at off hours if you don't want to wait - they really take their time (which is awesome once you're doing the fitting). We came at 3pm on a Tuesday and didn't wait.

Elena Parsons

What a fantastic experience. Everyone truly cares about making sure you leave with the right shoes, they take tons of time with each person and provide incredible advice. Emily helped me and was just fantastic, so kind and informative. Cannot recommend this place enough for all levels of runners!

Chris Wang

Simply the best specialty running store in SF. I recently visited to purchase a new pair of running shoes. Emmanuel was incredibly patient and helpful - he performed a detailed gait analysis, explained the results in an easy to understand manner, and allowed me to try on (and test outside) numerous pairs of shoes. I ultimately purchased a pair of ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 + insoles and could not be happier. 10/10 shopping experience.

I've also returned for their Thursday community runs into the Presidio (spectacular views), as well as a Friday Cable Car Chase, and intend to join a Tuesday hill workout soon. Fantastic community and caring staff. If you are a running enthusiast, I highly recommend swinging by to experience ARM's top-notch service and inclusive community firsthand.

J M

I came from out of town looking for new running shoes. Found this quaint shop and I was amazed by the service. Very one in one individualized assistance to help you find the best fit for your best performance. They use high tech video to analyze your run. All in all was great everyone was friendly. Highly recommend if you want the best.

Doug Cooper

Stefan was very insightful and accommodating. He made the experience very enlightening and fun. I recommend going here for your next pair of running shoes.