My local Fleet Feet store is owned by fat people

Because most yoggers are fat and gullible to buy it all. Go to a 5k and see how many 30+ minutes sport fuel belts for goodness sakes.

For real runners the only reason to go to these stores is to try on shoes before going to buy them online.

I regret the way I wrote this post because it's disparaging in tone.

You should be thanking those overweight people for acquiring the capital, taking the risk, and then opening a running shop to serve the local running community. They are heroes for doing this.

What are the skinny runners doing? Probably staring at themselves in the mirror like the insecure narcissists they are. Losing their minds over the four ounces of water weight that they picked up from their last weigh and gaze. Stalking any potential threats and rivals on Strava. Almost certainly not creating jobs, tax revenues, and local economic stimulus.

Yeah, you were disparaging. You were also judgy. Also, if you don’t like Hoka or Brooks, don’t run in them. The side commentary isn’t needed.

In general, don’t be surprised by who owns the “corporate-type” stores like Fleet Feet. I avoid those places. Unfortunately, though, that is the way the industry is going. The small shops are selling out to those places. Small shops with knowledgeable staff are becoming fewer & fewer. I can’t blame those that built up a shop for selling out to the corporations. It’s a way for the owners to get away from the grind and be rewarded for their work. I won’t be shopping at those places, though.

This is a bit off topic but lastly, don’t be one of those dicks that goes to a good store with good staff, takes the recommendations of the staff, and then turns around and buys from an online retailer just to save a few bucks. I’ll gladly pay a bit more for shoes if staff at a store spent time with me.

FWIW, our Fleet Feet is owned by a fit couple who do a nice job of selecting inventory. I buy almost zero running stuff there, but do shop there for other workout gear for my family (Vuori, LuLu, etc.).

Most of the staff are not runners, which can be annoying if you have a question about a specific shoe. But I support them because they’re a net positive to our society and get people out running.

If they convince someone to spend $450 on gear to run 3-4 times a week, that customer is a winner. Net positive.

How are you, an American, surprised that your peers are fat?

Hahahhaha. I make sure to try on as many shoes as possibly, more fun when they are about to close and go home . Later folks! Gonna buy them online or at the outlet mall. Thanks for the free advice, maybe I’ll buy your $60 hat next time. Keep running the beer run group, maybe they will buy your overpriced dated inventory. Woo hoo!

It sounds like your Fleet Feet is the same as mine. They don't care about "real runners" they are selling, selling, and selling. Don't read all the fancy slogans that make it sound like they are doing everything out of the kindness of their heart. They are working to upsell socks, inserts, etc with every purchase. The more merch the better so they can win their sales contest for the month.

Perhaps the obesity is a new training technique where strength is built from running with the increased weight, similar to running with a weighted vest.

Fleet Feet corporate (not the individual franchises) is owned by Investors Management Corporation, which also owns Golden Corral Buffet.

Google them. The two companies are listed right next to each other.

It all makes sense now!