Baseline Runners
Buying running shoes online is easy until the new pair starts rubbing your heel halfway through a long run. A shop that watches you run on a treadmill before you choose a shoe takes a lot of that guesswork away.
That is the job Baseline Runners does from its store at The Kloof Mall in Bedfordview, Johannesburg. It also runs an online shop that delivers across South Africa, so you can buy the same brands without walking in.
What they do
Baseline Runners is a specialist running retailer, not a shoe brand. It stocks road, trail and training shoes from ASICS, Brooks, Saucony, On, adidas, Puma and Salomon, plus Oofos recovery sandals and a dedicated HYROX section.
The store side is built around fitting. Baseline lists gait analysis, foot pressure assessment and treadmill running analysis, with shoe fitting available as a walk-in or by appointment. Online, you also get running clothing, socks from Balega, lights, belts, recovery tools and nutrition.
For deal hunting, Baseline Runners belongs in Sports on The Real Deal.
What to look at first
Road Running Shoes
Daily trainers and faster shoes from the big running brands, for men, women and kids. This is where the fitting service matters most.
Best for: runners replacing a worn-out daily trainer.
Trail Shoes
Grippier shoes with tougher uppers for dirt, rock and mud, with Salomon among the brands on offer.
Best for: weekend trail runners and parkrun regulars heading off-road.
HYROX Shoes and Clothing
A separate section for HYROX racing, which mixes running with gym stations. Handy if you need one shoe that copes with both.
Best for: people training for a HYROX event.
Recovery and Accessories
Recovery sandals, Rocktape, TriggerPoint rollers, Ledlenser lights, race belts and insoles. Small items, but easy to forget until race week.
Best for: filling the gaps around a new pair of shoes.
Simple way to think about it
If you live near Bedfordview and are unsure which shoe suits your stride, go in for the assessment first. That is the part an online-only store cannot give you.
If you already know your model and size, the online shop works like any other running retailer. The same ASICS or Brooks shoe is sold in other places, so price is worth a quick comparison.
If a pair is already on your shortlist, see if it turns up among the Baseline Runners deals on The Real Deal first.
What makes Baseline Runners different
What sets Baseline apart is the fitting, not the shoes. Big sports chains stock many of the same brands, but few of them put you on a treadmill and look at how your foot lands before recommending a model.
The flip side is reach. There is one physical store, in Johannesburg. If you are in Durban or Cape Town, you are buying online like everyone else, and the specialist advice is harder to use.
The practical bit
Shipping: Delivery is within South Africa only, with the cost worked out at checkout by size, weight and destination. No PO boxes.
Delivery: Orders are usually processed in 1 to 2 business days, then standard shipping takes about 3 to 7 business days. You get a tracking link by email.
Returns: A 7-day window for unused items in original packaging. You pay the return courier unless the item is faulty, and there are no direct exchanges, so you return and reorder.
Support: Get in touch through baselinerunners.co.za, by email or by phoning the Bedfordview store.
Who it’s for
This is for you if:
- You want a running shoe matched to your gait, not just your size
- You live in or near the East Rand or Johannesburg
- You are training for HYROX or getting into trail running
- You like buying shoes, socks and recovery gear from one running shop
Probably not for you if:
- You want lifestyle sneakers rather than running shoes
- You might change your mind after a week, since the return window is short
- You cannot get to Bedfordview and do not need specialist advice
Final word
Baseline Runners earns its place when fit is the problem. If shoes keep giving you blisters or sore knees, the assessment is worth the trip. If you already know your shoe, treat the online store as one good option among several.
Have a look at live Baseline Runners specials on The Real Deal once you know your model and size.
FAQ
Is Baseline Runners worth it?
Yes, if you want help choosing a running shoe that suits how you run. If you already know your exact model, compare prices before you buy.
Where can I find Baseline Runners deals in South Africa?
Live Baseline Runners deals are listed on Baseline Runners on The Real Deal, ranked by RealRank against the store's own pricing.
Does Baseline Runners do gait analysis?
Yes. The Bedfordview store lists gait analysis, foot pressure assessment and treadmill running analysis, with fitting available as a walk-in or by appointment.