Store Spotlight- Performance Running Outfitters

So you made a New Year’s resolution to get fit. You started running. How’s that working out? Perhaps you’re beginning to realize that old pair of sneakers isn’t quite up to par? Whether you’re a winter warrior pounding the pavement or inside working up a sweat on the treadmill, a pair of shoes can make or break even the most dedicated of resolutioners. And with The New York Times reporting that 78 percent of weight loss resolutions will fail (without added incentive), make sure it isn’t inadequate gear that holds you back this year with a stop at Performance Running Outfitters.

Owner Jessica Hoepner opened her first PRO store in Brookfield in 2006, and has since expanded to locations in Oconomowoc and Shorewood with the help of husband/partner Trae. Both are runners and knew from the start that the business would be more than just a retail store. “We wanted to have fun runs from the get-go,” says Hoepner, mentioning that they started with a 5K program but have since added 10K and half-marathon training. Regularly scheduled group runs will resume again in March, and, if all goes as planned, the Shorewood group may be meeting at a new location come May. As a confirmed tenant of the in-the-works Ravenna Development, Hoepner says she opened the current Shorewood location “knowing we wouldn’t stay there.” The new building will open just up the street at 4521-4537 N. Oakland Ave.

Regardless of which location they choose to visit, customers are guaranteed knowledgeable service. That’s because every employee is required to go through an extensive training period before fitting customers for shoes. And the fitting process at PRO is not only helpful, but necessary for runners who want to avoid aches, pains and injuries associated with poorly fitted shoes. This is especially important for beginning runners who Hoepner says usually make the mistake of doing “too much, too soon.”  After going over goals and experience with a PRO employee, customers will be videotaped running on a treadmill to analyze gait. At this point, terms like “overpronation” or “neutral” will be tossed around, but it all leads to the fun part: testing out new shoes and (hopefully) finding the perfect pair.

With prices falling anywhere in the $80 to $150 range, the decision to invest in a good pair of running shoes can be a tough one. However, PRO pays back with its PRO Rewards program, giving customers a $25 store credit for every $250 spent – and not just on shoes. Although a little higher in winter due to thermal gear, prices for apparel typically fall in the $20 to $50 range, and extras such as GU packs, fuel belts and compression socks are readily available. No need to sign up for anything extra – shoppers are automatically enrolled in PRO Rewards with their first purchase.

Here’s to a year of healthy living! 

You can follow Performance Running Outfitters on Facebook and Twitter.

Photos of Brookfield store courtesy of Performance Running Outfitters