Shoe Fitters: Who They Are and Who They Aren't

There is so much that a shoe fitter does on a daily basis, but there is also quite a bit they don't do. I wanted to make some things clear when you head to a running store, what the expectation should be.

The person fitting you for the shoe has been trained to analyze your gait to make sure you are in the right type of shoe. They have technical knowledge of the shoes so they can explain what the shoes can and can't do. They do assist with questions about running, mostly because they are runners themselves, and most likely have endured all the issues you go though. The are your counselor when your running isn't going well, and you need a pep talk, some advice, or just an ear to listen to prior to your race. They can lead your training group. They can cheer you on at races. They can lead a fun run, and share a beer afterwards with you. They do a ton of things for runners on a daily basis.

They aren't doctors. This is important, because a good many people come into a running store asking for medical advice or a diagnosis. My most famous story is the woman I helped who had hip issues running. She asked me what I thought the problem was. I gave her a list of possible things which could be the problem, but I told her she needed to see a medical professional who could correct diagnose the issue, and begin to work on solving it. She was pretty adamant that she didn't want to go to a doctor. I suggested a free injury screening by a physical therapist in our store could be a solution. Nope....she would have none of that.

We went through the fitting. We figured out shoes for her. She was very happy with everything. At the end of our talk, she said....."So in your expert opinion, do you think I need hip replacement surgery?"

Again, a shoe fitter is NOT a doctor, nor are they playing them on TV.

I get it. We do know a certain amount of medical info in regards to foot, ankle and leg pain. This helps so we can advise products. We don't know how to diagnose problems. I find it funny that people would rather seek info from a retail person on medical issues.

So when you head to your local store, please know what the shoe fitter can do, and also know....they aren't a doctor.

Charlie