
1. You question the knowledge of the sales person.
2. Some local running stores only carry a limited stock.
3. Your local running store is several miles away.
4. Both online and local running stores have limitations on return policy.
5. Shipping costs can be crazy.
These are just a few examples of what a consumer might go through. Now as a new runner, you put every ounce of trust in the sales person that they will fit you in the right shoe. Even for experienced runners, after your research and mull over reviews on a particular running shoe/s making that purchase can be exciting or disheartening. This is understandable because with so many brands and styles of running shoes, it is difficult to know if you are truly getting a shoe that fits “you”. So, as a consumer you expect the sales person to know their product/s, maybe get a little information about you and recommend the best options of running shoes so that you will feel confident in what you are purchasing and avoid having buyer’s remorse.

Now, as far as purchasing the Mizuno Wave Levitas; I purchased on Thursday (06/28) through their website and used the FREE USA priority shipping. To my surprise, I received my new kicks on Saturday (06/29)!!! Not only did I receive a personalized video, I also had a quick delivery of my new kicks. Then to top it off, I found a personalized card thanking me for my purchase. The team at Optimal Run is all about customer service and finding you the best running/workout shoe for your optimal performance that they even have a 40 day “Any condition return” policy. That’s freaking awesome right there. No more running on a treadmill so that you don’t get your shoes dirty or smudged in order to “actually” test out your kicks.
So to test out Patton’s recommendation, I set out for a 12 mile run on Sunday in my new kicks. The one thing I can say about these shoes…Patton was spot on! The Mizuno Levitas responded well and for a lightweight zero drop shoe, gave me the perfect amount of flexibility/protection/cushion that I have been looking for in a lightweight trainer. I’ll be writing a review on the Mizuno Wave EVO Levitas soon (want to get several more miles on them).
To get started on one of the best shoe buying experience, head on over to Optimal Run and check out the Personalized Footwear Recommendation. Also, check them out on Facebook and like their page.
Kyle
Train Hard = Race Easy, Train Smart = Race Fast ™