Welcome Aboard Fleet Feet

Welcome Aboard: Fleet Feet

Fleet Feet was founded in 1976 by Sally Edwards and Elizabeth Jansen in Sacramento, California. As avid runners and triathletes, they recognized a gap in the market for a specialty running store that catered to the unique needs of runners and fitness enthusiasts. At the time, most sporting goods stores had limited selection and little specialized knowledge about running shoes and gear. Edwards and Jansen aimed to create a place where runners could find high-quality footwear, expert advice, and a community of like-minded individuals. Fleet Feet became one of the first retail stores in the U.S. to focus exclusively on running, emphasizing customer service and the perfect fit for each runner.

The success of the first store led to the expansion of the Fleet Feet brand through franchising. By the 1990s, Fleet Feet had grown significantly, with stores opening across the United States. The company differentiated itself by offering personalized shoe fittings, gait analysis, and a strong community focus, organizing local races, running groups, and fitness events. Fleet Feet’s dedication to providing specialized products and services helped it build a loyal customer base and established it as a leader in the specialty running market. Today, Fleet Feet continues to thrive as a nationwide franchise, with more than 250 stores, offering a wide range of running shoes, apparel, and accessories, along with expert guidance for runners of all levels.

What others are saying about: Fleet Feet

“Fleet Feet is more than a franchise … Fleet Feet feels like a close-knit family! We felt encouraged to grow and succeed from the top down. From the sales support team to the other store owners, Fleet Feet’s core values shine through. It’s the best decision we’ve ever made!” -Actual franchisee review

Right-Fit Franchisees

Fleet Feet is committed to growing their franchise system with right-fit franchisees. They recently engaged Zorakle Profiles in a research project to determine the DNA of their ideal franchisee. Zorakle’s SpotOn! Blueprint uses 7 statistically validated sciences to determine the attributes that separate high-performing franchisees from low performers. Welcome Aboard Fleet Feet.

Learn more about: Fleet Feet

Contact: 855-213-4301