Track Spikes, Indoor & Outdoor, & XC

[pinstripefan]

Hey guys,
I am a Footwear Buyer in the Northeast at a major Sporting goods retailer. I am really trying to grow my track business, and hope to do so by carrying what the track athletes in NY & NJ are looking for. I see that this business is poised for immense growth. Can you help me out? Should I be looking at basics entry level shoes, such as Rival's, Jana's from Nike, or Nova Sprints from Adidas or Kennedy's? Also what should I be looking at for an Indoor Shoe. Spikes;no spikes; waffles w/ spike option. Would love to know your toughts on what is missing in the marketplace & where you currently purchase your track shoes.
Thanks.
Signed former X-Country runner from the 80's.

[Homer Simpson]

bring back jasaris!
actually i would stick to the kennedys for xc and for track put some milers, eldorets..anything nike

[rysheridan]

I wouldn't buy the rival spikes, it seems like the same kids who buy those could do just as well with lighter xc spikes. If you just buy a crapload of nike waffles your store will be in good shape.

[asleep@theline]

I buy from Eastbay but that is only because the stores around me don't have a big selection. I would sell kennedy's for XC, waffles / waffles with spike option for indoor and I would sell pretty much any shoe for outdoor.

[AMBULOPHOBIA]

I wouldn't buy the rival spikes, it seems like the same kids who buy those could do just as well with lighter xc spikes. If you just buy a crapload of nike waffles your store will be in good shape.

people dont know that though...they buy whatever everyone else says is good...im sure uve seen plenty of kids run 28 second 200s in 100 dollar spikes and plenty of kids run 4:40/2:05 and under in waffles

i say get a lil of everything...mainly Nike

[kal varnsen]

More importantly, get to know your product line and get to know runners. For example, if I come into your store and say that I'm a 4:30 HS miler but don't really want an aggressive spike plate, know not to reccomend the milers and maybe suggest the eldorets. Eastbay can't tell you that; you need to be able to know how to cater to the needs of individuals.