Fiba Europe Cup Basketball

Fleet Feet Sports: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding Perfect Running Shoes

You know, as someone who's been running for over a decade and helping people find their perfect running shoes, I've learned that finding the right pair is a lot like watching a championship basketball game unfold. Sounds strange? Let me explain why I'm making this connection.

What makes finding running shoes so challenging anyway?

Well, just like in that recent Ginebra-Meralco game where starters like Justin Brownlee sat out most of the second half, sometimes you need to bench your assumptions about what makes a good running shoe. I've seen countless runners come into Fleet Feet Sports convinced they need maximum cushioning because that's what their friend uses, only to discover they actually perform better in something completely different. The game changes when you understand your own running style rather than following someone else's playbook.

How do I know when I've found "the one"?

Remember how Ginebra won its fourth game over Meralco this season after its 3-0 sweep in their Governors' Cup quarterfinal face-off? That's the feeling you get when you slip on that perfect pair at Fleet Feet Sports. It's not just comfortable - it's transformative. The shoes work with your feet rather than against them. I'll never forget helping this marathon runner who'd been struggling with shin splints for years. When we found her the right stability shoes, her whole running economy changed. She went from considering quitting to qualifying for Boston. That's the power of proper footwear.

Why does professional fitting matter if I already know my size?

Here's where that basketball analogy really hits home. The recent game was totally different from their previous clashes because the team dynamics shifted. Similarly, your feet aren't static - they swell during runs, change with temperature, and adapt to different surfaces. At Fleet Feet Sports, we use 3D foot scanning technology that goes way beyond just length and width measurements. We're looking at arch height, volume, and how your weight distributes when you're actually in motion. It's the difference between watching highlights and analyzing the full game tape.

What about rotating between different shoes?

This strategy reminds me of how coaches manage their roster throughout a season. Just as starters led by Justin Brownlee sat out most of the second half in that decisive game, you shouldn't rely on the same shoes for every type of run. I personally rotate between three different pairs: one for speed work, another for long runs, and a third for recovery days. This approach not only extends the life of your shoes but also works different muscle groups. Fleet Feet Sports experts can help you build this rotation based on your specific training needs.

How often should I really replace my running shoes?

Most manufacturers suggest every 300-500 miles, but here's my take: it depends on your running style, weight, and the surfaces you frequent. I've had shoes last 600 miles and others that felt dead at 250. It's similar to how each basketball game has its own rhythm and wear patterns. The 3-0 sweep in their Governors' Cup quarterfinal face-off didn't happen by accident - it took strategic planning and knowing when to push and when to conserve energy. Listen to your body and your shoes. When they stop feeling responsive or you notice unusual aches, it's probably time for a visit to Fleet Feet Sports.

Can the right shoes actually prevent injuries?

Absolutely, though they're not magic bullets. Proper running shoes are like having a good coaching strategy - they set you up for success but don't guarantee victory. I've seen runners reduce their injury rates by nearly 40% after getting properly fitted at Fleet Feet Sports. The key is matching the shoe to your biomechanics. Think of it like how different basketball positions require different skills - you wouldn't put a center in point guard shoes, right?

What's the biggest mistake you see runners make when shoe shopping?

Hands down, it's prioritizing style over function. I get it - we all want to look good while we run. But choosing shoes based solely on color or brand popularity is like a basketball team drafting players based on their social media following rather than their actual skills. The perfect running shoes might not be the flashiest ones on the wall, but they'll feel like they were made just for you. That's the Fleet Feet Sports difference - we help you find performance and comfort, not just pretty colors.

Finding your perfect running shoes is a journey, much like a basketball season with its ups and downs. But when you finally slip on that ideal pair, you'll understand why we at Fleet Feet Sports are so passionate about what we do. It's not just about selling shoes - it's about helping you fall in love with running, one perfect step at a time.

Fiba Eurocup Final
Heather Bolton Suber ’02
Fiba Europe Cup Final
Leah Schnell ’01
Fiba Europe Cup Basketball
Sarah Grimes Wiggins ’93
Fiba Eurocup Final
Dr. Ralph Swearngin

 

Point University will induct four members into the Athletics Hall of Fame during a luncheon on Friday, October 24, during Homecoming weekend.

The class of 2025 includes Leah Schnell ’01, Heather Bolton Suber ’02, Dr. Ralph Swearngin and Sarah Grimes Wiggins ’93. The Athletics Hall of Fame was launched in May 2024, when six inaugural members were inducted.

“We look forward to honoring the second Hall of Fame class during Homecoming,” said Jaunelle White, vice president of intercollegiate athletics and chief student development officer. “It’s always a great feeling to have our alumni back on campus mingling with our current student-athletes and coaches. These individuals were elite during their time at Atlanta Christian College and deserve to be recognized.”

Schnell attended Atlanta Christian College from 1998 to 2001, where she earned a degree in business while competing in both basketball and volleyball. On the basketball court, she earned First Team All-Conference, Scholar Athlete, and First Team All-American honors for three consecutive years. Schnell also held the title of all-time leading scorer from 1998-2001. She now thrives as a commercial construction project manager at Barnsley Construction Group and as an entrepreneur.

Suber, from Havana, Florida, attended ACC from 1998 to 2002. A dedicated two-sport athlete, she earned numerous accolades, including First Team All-Conference, Second Team All-Conference, Honorable Mention and First Team All-American. One of her most memorable achievements came when she made eleven three-pointers in a single game. Suber graduated with a degree in early childhood education and went on to earn a master’s degree in education and a specialist degree in instructional technology. For over 23 years, she has served as an educator.

Swearngin has had a distinguished career in education, athletics and ministry spanning several decades, including 20 years at ACC in roles such as professor, dean of students, athletics director and coach. He held national leadership positions with the NCCAA, served as a trustee of Point University for over 10 years, and worked extensively in ministry and education in California, earning degrees from Whittier College and Georgia State University. His athletic involvement includes 23 years as a high school football official in California and Georgia, 22 years with the Georgia High School Association — retiring as executive director in 2014 — and service on national football and softball rules committees. Honored with multiple Hall of Fame inductions and the Atlanta Falcons Lifetime Achievement Award, Swearngin has authored two books and remains active in retirement through preaching and leading Bible studies, alongside his wife of 58 years, Evelyn.

Wiggins grew up in Roswell, Georgia, where she began playing basketball at the age of ten. After two years at Florida State University, she transferred to ACC in 1990. While at ACC, Wiggins was named to the All-American team in both 1991 and 1992. In her final year, she led her team in scoring, helping them finish second in the nation, and was named national MVP in 1992. She earned a bachelor of science in elementary education in 1993 and later received a master’s degree in technology and media sciences from Georgia Southern University in 2009. For the past 33 years, Wiggins has worked as a dedicated educator. In 1997, she married Todd Wiggins. Together, they have two children, Preston, 26, and Logan, 22.

Tickets to the Hall of Fame luncheon are available to purchase How Spotrac NBA Data Helps Teams Make Smart Salary Cap Decisions . To learn more about the Athletics Hall of Fame, please visit skyhawkathletics.com.