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Universal Sole
Categories: Shopping Fashion Shoe Stores Shopping Fashion Sports Wear Shopping Sporting Goods Sports Wear Shoe Stores, Sports Wear [Edit]
3052 N Lincoln Ave(between Southport Ave & Wellington Ave)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighbourhood: Lakeview
(773) 868-0893
- Nearest Transit:
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Southport (Brown Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 10 am - 8 pm
Fri 10 am - 7 pm
Sat 10 am - 6 pm
Sun 11 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
At Running Away you'll find a staff that is friendly and warm and willing to take the time to make sure you are comfortable whether you came in for… read more »
54 reviews for Universal Sole
Review Highlights
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"...around the store or even outside to try out shoes, which is..." In 3 reviews -
"I've been a happy runner ever since." In 3 reviews -
"...will definitely be buying my running gear here from now on." In 4 reviews
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54 reviews in English
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Review from Janelle P.
Chicago, IL
5/18/2012
My husband and I have never run before, but we are determined to do a 5k this fall. Not having any idea where to start with running shoes, we stopped in here based on a friend's recommendation. The staff is AWESOME! They took their time, listening to our injury issues and what we wanted out of a shoe. They used several different methods to help us figure out what our ideal style running shoe is and when I tried on the first pair they chose for me, it was heaven! I cannot wait to go running in these shoes. They were a bit expensive compared to a big box store, but still really reasonable (about $100/pair).
They also talked us through other products, but only after we asked about them. We never felt pressured to buy anything and we were not treated like dirt because we weren't pro runners- they were all really excited we were starting. To give you an idea, when we asked what a good 5k time is to shoot for, they wouldn't give us a number; what they told us was, "Whatever you can do by the time of the race, try to go 1 minute/mile faster. It's all based on *you*." None of this, "Oh, you know, if you don't do it in less than 30 mins you should just go home." They even steered us towards a good training program- and not one they were selling! And we found the perfect 5k to train for in their store.
Pros: GREAT costumer service, very knowledgeable staff, not at all pushy
Cons: Shoes are a bit expensive compared to somewhere like Footlocker
GO HERE! You will not regret it! -
Review from Stephanie H.
Chicago, IL
5/12/2012
Not only was I given tons of help in testing my running form with different Altra shoes, but they even put in a special order for me of a shoe in a size and design that they don't even normally carry.
I never knew a pair of running shoes could make me so happy... and combined with the tips I was taught in-store on the treadmill, my running form has never been better. This is all thanks to Universal Sole and their staff! I can't recommend them enough! -
Review from Star L.
Alsip, IL
12/30/2011
I came in to pick up my packet for the New Year's Day 5K. That was my original plan, but then I remembered that I needed some running socks. I am not a novice to running, but I am trying to get better gear for my runs, and socks (as you runners know) are very important.
I talked with Matt, who was very knowledgable about everything. He mentioned the kind that he liked, but he was really invested in what was best for me, by asking me questiosn about my runs, and then making suggestions based off of those answers. Super nice and customer service oriented.
They have a really good selection of shoes and gear, and the prices are reasonable. They also have loads of information on upcoming races in the city, which is always a plus as well. -
Review from annette f.
Chicago, IL
7/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Stopped in today to get fitted for some new sneaks as I'm starting to get that suspicious knee pain that pops up when I'm due for a fresh pair. I had an inkling that maybe there's a better brand/style out there for me than the Brooks Glycerin (a neutral shoe) which a competitor shoe store fit me for almost a year ago, complete with a pair of Powerstep orthotics (to accomodate my overpronation). Today, the very friendly, informative and easy on the eyes Matt (I think?) helped me and explained I needed something with more support for my over-pronating feetsies. I went with another model of Brooks, and am psyched to take 'em out soon.
A quick scan of their clothes tells me they're priced a bit lower than FF, as well. -
Review from Gina S.
8/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm all about finding the right running shoe...and no one knows shoes better than running stores. I love going into a running store and asking for a stability control shoe and the staff knows exactly what I'm talking about. Not only that but they know the different brands and which shoes do the job.
Plus they support local runs in the community, Champions 5K/10K. -
Review from Amy D.
5/5/2011
I only run when I'm chased or if someone dangles a sausage from a string in front of treadmill. However, Universal Sole's athletic wear translates well to my cycling and gym rat needs.
The Saucony face mask saved my life during the harsh winter cycling months and provided me an alternative to the scary skiing gator mask. The Saucony skull cap fit seamlessly under my helmet and provides an amazing amount of warmth and moisture-wicking properties. There's usually a good amount of sale bras, too. I wish they stocked a bigger variety of gloves (i.e. grippier gloves, "glittens"), but understand this shop is geared towards runners who don't require the same hand flexibility as cyclists.
Can't wait to come by and see if I can take some of their winter stock off their hands. Did someone say sale?Listed in: Papa Wheelies
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Review from Ato Z.
Chicago, IL
7/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
Hey sister sole, sister go sister sole sister...
Okay, it is supposed to be "Soul Sister" but my new sneakers make me wanna sing so I am taking liberties.
For some reason many of the friends I have made in my 12 years here have been runners. I have tried to learn to run since college *cough cough* years ago, but just never was able to go more than a few yards and would give up very quickly. I finally got tired of being left behind and left out of the many social events surrounding running, so I decided to get up off my arse and try to get going via Couch to 5K. Well now I know that part of the problem was my lazy ass, but an even bigger part of the problem was I was improperly outfitted.
After brunching with several of my runner friends and having them recommend this place to me (and after my having been dissatisfied with another local running shop's fitting of my sneakers last year), I decided to head on over on a Sunday afternoon to get some proper running shoes. The woman who waited on me could not have been more patient, since as a novice, I wasn't exactly sure what I needed, but she gave me a lot of useful information (about sizing, different arches, etc). Also, since I have Flintstone feet, it can be very hard to fit me. But we found a few possible pairs and I tried them both inside and outside. The gentleman who checked me out at the register also was very nice, answering my questions on some of their porgrams, like Pilates and Pancakes (which I can't wait to try out in the fall).
The sneakers were only $10 more than those online shoe sites, which I found pretty reasonable and in this economy I would rather have my money stay local. Plus, they gave me a CARA discount. The new kicks are priceless to me though, because from the very first run in them, I could feel the difference. My calves no longer hurt, my feet were more comfortable, and I was able to go farther.
Thanks Universal Sole. I do my first 5k in a couple of weeks and this one is dedicated to you! -
Review from Mary S.
Chicago, IL
8/15/2011
I stopped in here today knowing that I needed new running shoes. I have been in excruciating foot pain for the past few days without any running at all. I knew that, if I ever wanted to return to running, I needed to purchase a new pair of shoes. The man who helped me, no idea of his name. Tall, thin, late twenties, kind of like every runner in the city . He was super helpful and nice. I'm sure I am impressed him with my sexsay walk through the store with my new shoes. I'd go here again and again. The selection isn't astounding but I don't care. I only wear my running shoes running. I don't need them to be cute.
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Review from Colleen C.
Chicago, IL
6/18/2010 1 Check-in Here
Cute pink running shoes. Whatever, I don't run...but I like to look somewhat presentable when I work out and/or walk my dog. It's not something I can achieve every day....but, hey, so it goes!
I walked in because I wanted the a pair of pink Saucony "Bullet" shoes. Pink ones.
Unfortunately, they were out of my size and the color has been discontinued. My suggestion? Take them out of the window!
I walked out with two sports bras ($10 each, on sale from $32, quite the steal!) and an armband to hold my iPhone so that I can walk my dog and talk on the phone at the same time. $35 seems like a worthwhile investment to multi-task freely.
Great store if you like running, or pretending that you like running...or for the odd deal on apparel that'll keep your parts where they are supposed to be despite the velocity + gravity factor.
VERY friendly and helpful staff. -
Review from Andrea H.
This place deserves a million stars! OK, now I sound like I'm on the Maury show, "I'm a MILLION percent sure..."
Seriously, Jessica at Universal Sole saved my running life...and my sanity. You see, I've had major shin splint issues for the past year. So bad that, after the half marathon last year, I could barely walk and was out of commission for 4 months. I was so frustrated, I seriously considered taking up barefoot running.
With another half and a full marathon on the horizon, I decided to stop in for some advice. Jessica took one look at my feet (literally, I was still standing in the doorway) and immediately noticed that I was in the wrong shoes. OK, how many running stores have I been to and how many people have watched me run and still put me in the wrong shoes??? At least 10, and I'm not talking Foot Locker, I'm talking specialty running stores.
I was doubtful, but Jessica patiently listened to my saga and explained her reasoning by doing a simple test. I immediately saw what she saw and wondered what those other people have been thinking over the past several years. She hooked me up with a new type of shoe and I have been running happily and shin splint free ever since. Jessica, you are my personal hero.
Not only are they knowledgeable and patient, they sponsor some cool events too. Burger and beer fun run? Yes please! Now that I can run without angst, I can stop and smell the burgers...I mean roses. (No I really mean burgers)Listed in: Surprises!, One Day I'll Be Kenyan.
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Review from Sam K.
Chicago, IL
10/14/2008
"Hi, I'm A.K. I've never run in my life. Teach me. And then sell me some stuff to do it in."
Five months later the 5K is a piece of cake. Thanks Universal Sole!Listed in: It's pretty tough to make this…
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Review from Amy H.
4/23/2007
Universal Sole rocks my soul.
I was on a mission to find a new pair of shoes this weekend and decided to try Fleet Feet. They were too busy, so my friend and I went to Universal Sole. What a great store! We received personal attention and were both fitted with some great shoes. The staff listened to my foot and shin problems and made some great recommendations. We both left the store with some great new sneaks and the best part...they had cake! It was someone's birthday and they offered us a slice of cake.
Great service, great products, and sometimes great cake! :) -
Review from Mike K.
5/2/2008
It's been about two years since I last purchased running shoes and considering that I am trying (notice I said "TRYING") to run more (and faster) this year, I figured it'd be a good idea to get new kicks for the upcoming season ahead.
After poking around on Yelp, I couldn't help but notice the rave reviews this place had received and bookmarked it to try it out.
True to form, the staff is very knowledgeable, empathetic and very charismatic. It's no wonder why people really enjoy shopping here. I explained what I wanted to accomplish in my running and they effortlessly fit me into a shoe and gave me advice on how to go about tackling my running goals.
I never felt belittled for asking a question nor pressured to buy anything I wasn't ready to purchase. Overall, a very classy outfit and a boon to runners everywhere. -
Review from Alison M.
Chicago, IL
4/17/2008
I admit it, I'm not really much of a runner. I start, get back into the habit of running, grow bored with it and stop, and have to restart again... it happens every year. Frankly, my lack of dedication is kind of embarrassing. Meanwhile, my younger sister has run the Chicago Marathon. It's actually really embarrassing.
Nonetheless, Universal Sole is perfect for both of us. The staff is so nice and knowledgeable. They're not pretentious and don't make me feel like an idiot for asking basic questions about training, shoes, and equipment. Still, everyone there is experienced enough to field questions from the most serious of runners. (They're all serious runners themselves)
Their clothes and shoes are reasonably priced, the staff really listens to find out what you're looking for and I don't feel like they try to oversell you on stuff you don't need.Listed in: Fit or Fat
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Review from Kyung P.
Chicago, IL
3/19/2008
It's no wonder all yelpers love Universal Sole!!!
The staff is so friendly, helpful, and happy to answer any questions that you may have.
Paul fit me into a great pair of Brooks, and I ran five miles in them today! He first looked at my current shoes, noticed right away what was wrong with them, and found me an awesome pair of new shoes!
I also got a quick lesson in a new way to tie my shoes, and I was also told to loosen my laces every time I get in and out of my shoes - I'm one of those people that likes to just slip my feet into my shoes...
I also got a secret discount that makes an already awesome experience even better!!! Everyone should go to Universal Sole for their running shoes - I'll be back here for another pair after I log 500 miles in my new shoes!!! -
Review from Milena G.
Chicago, IL
8/18/2010 1 Check-in Here
The service here is great. I have a terrible time finding shoes and they worked with me and watched me walk until I found something I was happy with and wanted to try. They have both large and small sizes (I needed a size 12) and a variety of colors.
The first pair didn't work for me when I was working out and I was able to return them to try and different type of shoe.
They have a variety of products to make your run the best it can be. I will definitely use them for all of my running needs. -
Review from Sara B.
Chicago, IL
12/4/2006
This is, by far, the best running store in Chicago. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Once they see your face enough, you're even greeted by name! They really know what they're talking about, and will watch you walk and run over and over until they know what your foot is doing.
I needed a pair of my shoes ordered, and the owner knew I wanted to do a long run in them. He had the rep drive to Wheaton to pick them up and get them to the store on time. Now that's service!
Oh, and if you're going to try and compare them to the chain running store in Chicago, don't. I'm sorry, but a running store that sells Nike running shoes and apparel is NOT a real runner's store. And, they (the chain stores) don't carry Mizuno, which matters because Mizuno is selective about which stores they will be sold in.
Universal Sole is the hard-core runner's paradise. -
Review from Matt G.
6/5/2011
Frustrated by the other running stores in the city, I sought out the last one I hadn't yet visited in my area. Nice guys, well-laid out store and just enough of what you need but not overly large with too much stock. Also apparent that the folks working the stores were "real" runners and knew more than many working at the other stores that had sold me shoes that we not as advertised. I have yet to run on these shoes yet, but I'm fairly confident in the advice given.
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Review from sara h.
6/7/2010
This was my first time ever getting fitted for running shoes and, thanks to the amazing employees at Universal Sole, a GREAT experience!
First we talked about what kind of running I plan to do, how much experience I have and the 3 different types of running shoes.
Then, after I decided on a type of shoe (stablizing) I tried on several pairs for comfort and size.
Finally I went outside to try out my top choices by running up and down the sidewalk with my sales guy, Bill, watching to make sure they worked.
Because of the personal attention and getting to actually try the shoes out, I left confident that I got the best pair of shoes for my needs and at a fair price. -
Review from lisa k.
Chicago, IL
6/19/2011
Universal Sole is such a great running store for many reasons. Firstly, the staff and management are extremely friendly, knowledgeable and efficient. I have purchased my shoes from them for over 2 years and always go back. They were able to help me find the right shoes for my running needs and assist with any questions/concerns that I have regarding foot stride and gait. It's nice to have a local place to go that fits you in the right shoes! I have gone to other shoe stores and they have suggested shoes that are way too big or did not support my over pronation. Thank you Sole!
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Review from Juanita G.
4/26/2007
I've been getting running shoes from Universal Sole since '01, when they were recommended by a personal trainer. (They've moved to 2 locations since!)
I'm definitely a novice runner but they didn't give me any less attention. I always get very individual attention from every one that has helped me on the staff. Their staff is full of runners. I've even had great stretching advice there. They are always patient and friendly.
I do suggest that you wear clothes appropriate for running in so that they can watch your feet as you run and to try the shoes out before you buy them.
I've never liked their selection of running apparel for women but they more than make up for it in the selection of shoes. -
Review from Tom M.
Chicago, IL
2/2/2008
This place rocks!
Went there for a new pair of shoes, and the guy didn't laugh (too hard) when I told him I wasn't a runner! I wanted better shoes for the elliptical misery I force upon myself, and he had me take off my shoes and socks, checked out my feet and stance, and recommended a great pair of shoes, and turned me onto breathable non-cotton sport socks.
Great service and selection! -
Review from Cindy K.
Chicago, IL
5/10/2010
YouSwoop + Universal Sole = happy little runner.
I normally wouldn't have gone out of my way to go here because it's a bit far, especially with Chicago traffic. I couldn't pass up this deal and I'm on a constant quest for the perfect running shoe. I have VERY overpronated feet, aggravated further since I'm a clutz and twisted my right ankle twice in the past year. And when I say twisted, I mean went flying and eating pavement. Anyhoo, I can't just get any shoe, I need as much support as possible.
The person who helped me was great-- knowledgeable about which shoes would suit me and the varying degrees of support they offered. I liked the way they labeled the shoes-- color-coded by type. It might be a good idea to also have posters with a short description of each type.
The only reason why I took off a star was because they didn't have any motion control shoes smaller than a size 8 and I wear a 6.5. I ended up asking for the shoe with the most support and having them order it. I asked them to ship it to me and they actually delivered the shoes to my building personally, free of charge! The man I dealt with also assured me that if I had any issues with the shoes, I could bring them back for a full refund. He was concerned that I was buying it without trying them on, but I really didn't want to wait around for them to get my size in stock. I think he cared more than I did, which was nice.
It's about half the size of Fleet Feet, so your selection of merchandise is more limited, but I think their expertise is the same (possibly better) and the customer service is stellar. -
Review from Phil S.
Chicago, IL
8/22/2010
Went here with my girlfriend today. The lady that helped us was amazing (didn't catch her name). I am trying to get back into distance running but have been having a really hard time on concrete. I wanted to go back to Brooks (my fav shoe). My g/f and I were very satisfied with the help. I guess Fleet Feet fit my g/f for the wrong shoe, which is probably why she was having knee pains from running.
Also, this place is better than Fleet Feet IMO, at least the one on Lincoln ave. The person helping us explained that orthodics aren't necessary, which is different from what other running shoe salesman have said. Anyways, Fleet Feet sold me a $40 POS plastic-soled insert that caused my foot to slide around, resulting in knee pain on runs and prevented me from sprinting.
Price - I got Brooks Adrenaline GTS 10s for $109 out of the door - online lowest price is $99 w/o tax and shipping. So this, IMO, is a great deal.
I'm sticking with Brooks and Universal Sole in the future. -
Review from Rob D.
Toledo, OH
2/1/2010
This place is fantastic. I've been a an avid runner for years, but only recently have gotten into long distance races. The staff was great, going as far as to get me on a treadmill to watch how I run. Instead of a pimpled 16 year old at Dicks merely grabbing my size from the back the staff here actually took the time to figure out what type of shoe I need for my own personal running style. By the end of my shopping experience the staff was giving me restaurant picks. Overall a great experience and I learned a ton about proper training.
This place is small and is the definition of a speciality store so if you're looking for a deep discount bargain bin pair of shoes this is not the place for you. -
Review from Teresa M.
Chicago, IL
10/14/2008
I really like this store and the people who work here. They carry a lot of vegan shoes and I don't believe I saw a Nike in sight! sweet! They are extremely helpful and take time to get you the perfect shoe. They even let you run outside in the shoes before you buy them, which is better than treadmill at some other stores.
So, yeah. If you want new running shoes go here. -
Review from Michelle K.
Chicago, IL
2/6/2010
Great shoe selection, friendly staff, reasonable prices. They worked with me to find the right shoe and I was able to test the shoes on the sidewalk outside. There's also a treadmill in the store to try your new shoes out!
If you're looking for some guidance and help in choosing the right shoe, come here. -
Review from Brian P.
Madison, WI
6/16/2011
Great service, very helpful staff.
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Review from Becky R.
Chicago, IL
12/31/2007
I just bought my third pair of shoes from Universal Sole and I've never been disappointed. Their customer service just cannot be beat. I am not at all an experienced runner and Universal Sole has always treated me as though finding the right shoe for me was just as important as finding the right shoe for the guy who's run 10 marathons. Also, they've never tried to sell me the most expensive shoe in the store or sell me something I don't need. A great, positive experience.
Listed in: W. Lakeview/Roscoe Village, Get in Shape, Girl
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Review from Liz M.
Chicago, IL
1/27/2011
Universal Sole literally saved my feet. I was having terrible foot pain during marathon training last summer, and hobbled into Universal Sole to see if they could help me out. Joel took one look at my feet and said that I was running in the wrong shoes (thanks Fleet Feet). 2 minutes later, I was on the treadmill in a pair of shoes, and could tell the difference immediately. Joel took a lot of time to make sure I tried on different pairs, and that I was happy with my decision. I've been a happy runner ever since! GREAT customer service. I'll be back again and again.
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Review from Andrew M.
Chicago, IL
3/18/2009
I went to Universal Sole to look for a new pair of running shoes to train for the Chicago Marathon, and they were very helpful. They took the time to look at the wear on my old shoes, watch my running stride and make sure I got the right shoe. I tried on at least 5 pairs before I found the perfect pair. If you want to get into running, and don't want to injure yourself with a poorly fit pair of shoes, Universal Sole is a great place to start.
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Review from melissa h.
Chicago, IL
12/5/2008
Walked in out of curiosity....I wanted to check out a running store other than Fleet Feet or Running Away. I was really disappointed in their small selection of running apparel. The shoe selection looked better. The staff was friendly, but I definitely felt kind of awkward since it was such a small space.
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Review from Stacey W.
Chicago, IL
1/13/2010
I've been running for a while now and generally stick with the same line of shoes, just upgrade to the newer model. Whenever I go in to Universal Sole, the staff always teach me something about shoes/socks/my own feet that I didn't know. These guys are serious about getting runners into the proper shoe.
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Review from Dee W.
2/9/2007
I almost forgot about this place - customer service is so friendly and helpful here - they helped me pick out my latest pair of running shoes and the guy assisting me even gave me some tips and let me try out the shoes not only inside the store but even let me go outside and try out the feel on pavement. I was so surprised that the store wasn't packed as it should be - great place, great products, and best of all, great service!!
Listed in: Runner's World
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Review from Allen J.
Chicago, IL
1/3/2009
I have to say, I was completely impressed with my running shoe fitting at Universal Sole. The staff was friendly and helpful. They listened to my concerns (and what I liked) about my former shoes, gave me options, even let me run outside... all and all, entirely positive. I actually went after a negative experience at Fleet Feet. Universal Sole provides expert advice in a neighborhood feel. As a beginner in the running world, I highly recommend them.
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Review from Jennifer S.
Chicago, IL
3/12/2010
Highly recommend getting your running shoes at Universal Sole. Joel and the staff have INCREDIBLE knowledge of function/benefits of every single sole in Universal Sole. So friendly, helpful, and the store is well-designed, immaculate, and has a perfect assortment of accessories for every runners style. Also, they have the newest lines available, too and a cool apparel section.
Plus they have fun events, runs, resources, collection for old shoe donations, community info galore...it's a a great experience. I will buy my next pair from them for sure. -
Review from Anne K.
Chicago, IL
3/18/2009
Universal Sole has excellent customer service in the Lakeview neighborhood! My salesperson was extremely patient with me as I tried on three pairs of shoes that were suggested to support my feet during long runs. She watched my stride as I took each pair out onto the street and carefully noted if my heel slipped and showed me how to tie the laces for a snug fit. I can never thank her enough for her patience, knowledge and friendliness. She went above and beyond salesperson duty to make sure I was a happy runner!
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Review from Nancy H.
7/15/2008
Had a much better experience here than with Fleet Feet on North Ave. The two employees working here last night were young, friendly, and patient. They spent the time to look at our feet before and after trying on new shoes. We were still on the fence about buying a pair of shoes on the spot, and they were totally cool with it. It's a smaller store, but they definitely have their fan base - they knew everyone who walked in!
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Review from Cherie N.
Chicago, IL
9/2/2011
I heard some great things about Univeral Sole from some fellow runner friends, so checked it out today. I needed some new shoes and the ones that were recommended to me by a different running store had been bothering me. The guy at Universal Sole (I wish I could remember his name!) was extremely friendly, attentive and knowledgable. He spent at least 15 minutes with me figuring out my problem...I have really small feet and the shoes I had were too big causing my feet to slide up in the toe box which caused squished metatarsals. I got fitted for new shoes in my correct size and I am very satisfied! I also scored a new shirt for 30% off! I got new shoes, a new shirt, and several packs of gu for about a $100! That is pretty much a steal if you frequently buy running shoes/gear! I definitely will be coming back here!
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Review from T E.
Chicago, IL
11/7/2010
After a terrible experience at Running Away, I went to Universal Sole to get some new running shoes. My experience was awesome. Jessica helped me and she was really nice and knowledgable and put me in a great new pair of shoes. I appreciated that she didn't push the most expensive shoes and she took her time to ensure my shoes were the right ones for me. Everyone at the store seemed really nice and down to earth and the shoe selection was comparable to all the other running stored I've shopped at. They seemed to have a good selection of clothing and accessories and they offer lots of fun runs and events which I love.
This place is great. I will never shop anywhere else for my running gear from now on.
