By Ed Griffin

We are more than six months into responsible retail during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our phones at Fleet Feet Syracuse have been busy during the day and the number one question we are asked is: “do I need an appointment to come in?” It's an understandable question. Businesses have radically shifted how they are operating, and in 2020 we have likely all experienced arriving somewhere only to find out we need to book an appointment or have gotten the new hours wrong at one of our favorite local spots.

The short answer is: no, you do not. However, there are a lot of advantages to making an appointment.

First, when you make an appointment with us online or by phone (E. Syracuse/Clay), we will have one of our expert Oufitters ready for you at your scheduled time. Before you arrive, our team can also look up your Fleet Feet Syracuse profile so we are informed of the shoes and gear you have enjoyed from us in the past.

In addition, we use an appointment tracking tool that allows us to see the number of appointments we have during the day and by hour. This allows us to make adjustments to our staff to accommodate the number of customers coming in.

Still, if you just happen to be in the neighborhood or the mood strikes and you want to come by to shop or grab a new pair of running or walking shoes, come on in. Our Team Leader at the front of the store will greet you, find out what you are looking for and either assign you to an Outfitter, help you find the items you are looking for or, if there is a wait, let you know how long to expect. Most of the time there is little to no wait, although first thing in the morning and lunch times are a bit busier than the rest of the day.

As always, we appreciate your support of our locally owned business and look forward to seeing you soon.

Book an Appointment: East Syracuse Store | Clay Store

Ed Griffin and his wife Ellen own Fleet Feet Syracuse, which they founded in May of 2000. Fleet Feet Syracuse has received National Recognition as a Top 50 Running Store in America 12 years in a row and was named Best Running Store in America in 2012. Ed enjoys helping the team at Fleet Feet and our customers achieve their fitness and professional goals. In his spare time, Ed speaks to companies and organizations on a variety of topics, walks his dogs, enjoys good music and is the family chef. He can be reached at ed@fleetfeetsyracuse.com.