Musings

My New Running Shoe

Last weekend, in preparation for the running project, the family went on a trip to buy a pair of running shoes for yours truly.  Since we were already at a sporting goods store it seemed like a good idea to save some time and buy the shoes there. Wrong answer.  While the shoes weren’t “bad”, they didn’t fit quite right, and I’ve since learned that if running shoes don’t fit well at the store, they never will.

Fast forward to yesterday, when we took a jaunt up to Bauman’s Running and Walking Shop in Grand Blanc, Michigan.  It’s about 20 minutes away, so not too far, and it also happens to be where Heather bought her shoes roughly six months ago.

Within 20 seconds of entering this smallish running shop we were greeted by Adam, politely inquiring if we could use some help.  I explained my plight (heavy guy, losing weight, starting running, etc.)  Adam had me roll up my pant legs, stand still, walk around, and generally check out my feet.  He explained that my arches flatten out when I stand still, and so I’d want a control-based shoe with some arch support, to keep my knee from jinking inward on each step.  I also take a size 13/14 running shoe – who knew!

Adam produced the first candidate, a big pair of shiny running shoes with the moniker “The Beast”.  From there we tried on at least 5 different pairs of shoes, eventually settling on the Mizuno Wave Alchemy.  They fit like clouds or slippers – light, no binding anywhere, and amazingly comfortable.

This entire experience lasted a little more than half an hour, during which Adam managed the consummate balance of customer service – attentive, knowledgeable, and still allowing the customer to experience and explore the products and options.

It was an OUTSTANDING customer service experience, and I highly recommend Bauman’s to anyone out there.

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