Luke's Locker in Katy, TX knows their shoes

I have written before how impressed I often am with specialty running stores. Tonight I have the opportunity to visit the Luke's Locker location in Katy, TX, a suburb of Houston, for a reception sponsored by Asics. It was a very informative evening and I had the opportunity to visit with Sarah Balboa, the shoe manager at the store.

In speaking with Sarah, it is clear that she is passionate to stay on top of the features of every shoe she stocks in the store. She is committed to provide her clients with the best fitting and most functional shoe for that person and their particular foot type and mechanics. She takes the time to watch the customer walk without shoes so she can recommend the appropriate shoe, while taking into consideration what activity the person will do as well as if an orthotic is being worn and, if so, what type.

As a podiatrist, this is crucial for me to know. I treat serious athletes and I need to know that I am sending them to a store where the staff will take the time to devote to them to ensure they function at the highest level. As I've said before in a previous post: Running Stores Know Runners. I have lots to stay abreast of and, try as I might, there are so many changes in running shoes. Some companies update and change as often as three times a year!

So while it's easier sometimes to pull a shoe off a shelf at Academy or Sports Authority, and even easier to order online, there is no substitute for going to a store like Luke's Locker where the staff is well trained and their mission is to provide you with the equipment you need to keep you running at peak performance.