Shopping FAQ

Here are the answers to runners' most frequently asked questions.  To submit a question, send it to tandhwebman@hotmail.com

How long do running shoes last?

The general consensus is that running shoes should last between 300 and 500 miles.  With average use, this translates to an optimal wear period of four to six months.  Variables that affect the life of a shoe include the materials used to construct the shoe, the weight of the person wearing the shoe and how hard the person lands, and the surfaces on which the shoe is worn. 

It is critical to make sure that you don't push shoes beyond their limit.  When running, your feet absorb three to five times your body weight with each step.  If your shoes are worn out, you will incur a high risk of injury.  If you suddenly begin to notice discomfort in your feet, shins, or knees during or after a run, it is probably time to replace your shoes. 

What is the best shoe?  The best brand?

Despite what you may hear in advertisements, there is no such thing as a best shoe or brand.  It all depends on what you intend to do in the shoe and what type of foot you have.  Everyone's feet are unique.  Thus, a particular shoe can be great for one person and horrible for another.  It is important to take the time to try on a variety of shoes in order to find the shoe that fits your individual foot the best.  Fortunately, the entire staff at Tortoise and Hare is trained to assist you in finding that shoe. 

What do I need to bring for a fitting?

It is a good idea to bring the socks that you normally wear with athletic shoes.  Doing so will ensure the most accurate fit possible.  However, should you forget your socks, we do have a nice selection of try-on socks.  Of course, you can always buy some nice new socks to go along with your new shoes!

Although not necessary, it might also help to bring your current shoes and/or older models so that your salesperson can analyze your wear pattern and determine whether or not the shoe is giving you the proper support.  Another benefit is that, if you like your old shoes, the salesperson can bring you the same model if it is still available or recommend a similar one.

Is it true that I should buy running shoes in a larger size than my dress/casual shoes?

Yes, most people should wear running shoes a half to a full size longer than their other shoes (Don't worry, nobody has to know what size you're wearing!).  There should be about a thumb's width of space from the end of your longest toe to the tip of the shoe.  Having this space is necessary because toes spread out when they push off the ground and feet swell when running.  Without the space, toes will jam against the end of running shoes, which can result in black toenails.  

Is there a benefit to having two different pairs of shoes and alternating them?

For many runners, alternating two different pairs of shoes can indeed be advantageous.  Many runners use a lightweight shoe with a responsive forefoot for faster paced workouts and a more cushioned shoe for longer runs.  Even if your runs are all the same distance and pace, using two models can help prevent overuse injuries because different shoes will have unique effects on your gait and work the lower leg muscles differently.  For those who run nearly everyday, having more than one pair of shoes can help you from falling into a rut by keeping your runs fresh and interesting. 

What do I need in order to prevent blisters?  

To prevent blisters, you must eliminate friction and moisture, the two main culprits in blister formation.  The first step is to buy shoes that fit properly and give the correct amount of support for your feet (excessive foot motion can cause friction).  Your shoes should not feel like they're rubbing you anywhere; your heel and arch should feel comfortable and secure, and your toes should have plenty of wiggle room.

The second step is to use socks made from breathable fibers such as Cool Max that will wick moisture away from your feet and keep them dry.  A double layer sock will also aid in reducing friction.

Finally, chafing and blister protection products such as Blister Shield, Sportslick, and Body Glide do an amazing job of keeping the skin blister-free.  Best of all, you can find all of these great products at Tortoise and Hare!  

Can I special order a product if you do not have it in stock? 

Yes, if there's a product you need that we do not have in stock, we'd be happy to order it for you.  If it's an item or size that we would not normally carry, then we charge a non-refundable $10 deposit.  This deposit covers our cost of shipping to/from the company and any re-stocking fees.  However, if you buy the item, the $10 will count toward the purchase.  Special orders usually take one to two weeks to arrive.

Do you have gift certificates?

Yes, gift certificates are available in any amount.  They never expire, do not depreciate in value, and they may be used on any item in either of our two stores.

What is your return policy?

Returns on store items must be made within a time period of two weeks of their purchase for a full refund.  A valid store receipt must accompany all returns.  Returns after two weeks, but within 30 days of the purchase date may receive an exchange or store credit.  Defective merchandise must be returned for inspection within 30 days of purchase.  We will replace defective merchandise with a new item or extend a store credit that can be used anytime in either of our two stores.