Road Runner Return Policy | Refund & Exchange Guide 2025

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Road Runner Return Policy | Refund & Exchange Guide 2025

Road Runner Return Policy (2025 Update)

Buying running shoes and athletic gear can be tricky. You never really know how a shoe fits until you take it for a run. That is why understanding the Road Runner return policy is so important before you buy or if you need to send something back.

Whether you bought a pair of running shoes that feel too tight or apparel that doesn't fit right, this guide covers everything you need to know. We will break down the differences between VIP Family members and non-members, explain how to get your refund, and walk you through the return process step-by-step.

Note: This guide primarily covers Road Runner Sports, the popular athletic retailer. We also include a specific section for Road Runner Bags at the end, as their policies are different.

Road Runner Return Policy Overview

Road Runner Sports is known for having a very customer-friendly policy, especially if you join their VIP program. The most important thing to remember is that VIP members get to test their shoes, while non-members must return items unused.

Here is a quick snapshot of how the policy works:

Feature VIP Family Members Non-VIP Customers
Return Window 90 Days 60 Days
Condition Can return used/worn items for exchange Must be new/unused with tags
Refund Method Exchange or Store Credit (for used items) Original Payment (for new items)
Restocking Fee None None
Return Shipping Free (using prepaid label) Free (using prepaid label)

Key Takeaways

  • VIPs: You have a 90-day Perfect Fit Guarantee. You can run in the shoes and, if you don't love them, exchange them.
  • Non-VIPs: You have 60 days, but items must be in brand-new condition to get a refund.
  • Insoles: Custom Insoles have a special 90-day guarantee for everyone.

Return Window & Eligibility

Knowing your deadline is the most critical part of a successful return. The return window depends entirely on your membership status.

VIP Family Membership (90 Days)

If you are a VIP member, you have 90 days from the purchase date. The biggest benefit here is the ability to return items even if they are used.

  • Used Items: If you wear the shoes and don't like them, you can exchange them or get store credit. You typically cannot get a cash refund for worn items.
  • New Items: If the item is unworn with tags, you can get a full refund to your original payment method.

Non-VIP Customers (60 Days)

If you are not a member, you have 60 days to make a return.

  • Condition: Items must be new, unused, and resaleable.
  • Packaging: You must have the original tags and packaging.
  • Used Items: Non-members cannot return used apparel or shoes.

Special Exception: Custom Insoles

Road Runner Sports Custom Insoles have a unique policy. They offer a 90-day guarantee for all customers. They recommend you wear them for at least 30 minutes indoors to get used to them. If they still don't work for you within 90 days, you can return them for a full refund.

How to Return Items to Road Runner

Road Runner Sports tries to make the process easy by including return materials in the box. Here is how to handle your online return or in-store visit.

Option 1: Mail-In Returns (Online Orders)

Most orders come with a prepaid return label inside the package.

  1. Find the Form: Locate the return form included in your original package.
  2. Fill it Out: Indicate which items you are returning and the reason why.
  3. Pack the Item: Place the item (and original packaging/tags) securely in the box.
  4. Attach the Label: Stick the prepaid return label on the outside of the package.
    • Tip: If you lost the label, log in to your account on the Road Runner website to print a new one.
  5. Ship It: Drop the package off at the carrier specified on the label (usually FedEx or USPS).
  6. Track It: Keep a record of the tracking number until your refund is processed.

Option 2: In-Store Returns

You can avoid shipping times by returning items directly to a store.

  1. Locate a Store: Find your nearest Road Runner Sports location.
  2. Bring Essentials: Take the item, the original packaging, and your proof of purchase (receipt or order email).
  3. Process: A store associate will process your refund or help you find an exchange immediately.

Refund Methods & Processing Time

Once Road Runner receives your return, the timeline for getting your money back varies slightly.

  • Processing Time: It generally takes a few business days after the warehouse receives your package to inspect and process the return.
  • Bank Timing: After Road Runner releases the funds, it may take your bank an additional 3–5 business days to post the credit to your account.
  • Refund Method:
    • New Items: Refunded to your original payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.).
    • Used Items (VIP Only): Usually processed as an exchange or merchandise credit.
  • Shipping Costs: The original shipping fees you paid when you bought the item are non-refundable. However, you generally do not pay for the return shipping label.

Exchange Policy

The exchange policy is the star of the show for Road Runner Sports, specifically for VIPs.

  • VIP "Perfect Fit" Guarantee: This allows you to run in shoes for up to 90 days. If they cause blisters or just don't feel fast enough, you can exchange them for a different pair. This removes the risk of buying expensive running shoes online.
  • Non-VIP Exchanges: You can exchange items within 60 days, but they must be unworn and brand new. You cannot exchange used shoes if you are not a member.

To start an exchange, it is often fastest to call customer support or visit a store to ensure the new size or model you want is in stock.

Non-returnable or Restricted Items

There are very few restrictions, but they are important to know to avoid a denied return.

  • Used Gear (Non-VIPs): If you are not a member and you wore the shirt or ran in the shoes, you cannot return them.
  • Missing Tags: For a full refund, apparel must have tags attached.
  • Nutrition: Consumable items (gels, chews, hydration mixes) are typically considered non-returnable items once opened.
  • Road Runner Bags (Separate Company): If you bought a bag from "Road Runner Bags" (the handmade bag company), please see the section below as they generally do not accept returns.

Policy for "Road Runner Bags" (Handmade Items)

Note: This section applies only if you purchased from the independent company Road Runner Bags, not the athletic store.

Because Road Runner Bags creates small-batch, handmade gear, their policy is strict:

  • All Sales Final: Generally, returns and exchanges are not accepted.
  • Exceptions: If an exception is made, you must fill out a return form on their website.
  • Shipping Fees: The customer is responsible for all shipping costs.
  • Restocking Fee: While not explicitly listed as a fee, the cost of shipping is a deduction you have to absorb.

Fees, Deductions & Exceptions

For Road Runner Sports, the fee structure is consumer-friendly:

  • Restocking Fee: There are no restocking fees for standard returns.
  • Return Shipping: The prepaid label included in your box covers the return shipping cost.
  • Original Shipping: As mentioned, you will not get back the money you paid to have the item shipped to you initially.

Customer Support & Contact Information

If you have a complicated return or lost your label, the Road Runner customer support team is available to help.

  • Phone Number: 800-743-3206
  • Live Support Hours:
    • Monday – Friday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm PST
    • Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm PST
  • Online Resources: You can download return forms, print labels, and track your order status directly on the Road Runner Sports website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return items to Road Runner without a receipt?

It is always best to have a receipt. However, if you bought online or are a VIP member, Road Runner can usually look up your purchase history in their system. For in-store purchases without an account, a no-receipt return may be limited to store credit or denied.

How long does a refund from Road Runner take?

Once your return package arrives at their warehouse, processing takes a few days. After that, expect your bank to take another 3–5 business days to show the funds.

Can I return online orders in-store at Road Runner?

Yes. You can bring items purchased online to any local Road Runner Sports retail location for a refund or exchange.

What items are non-returnable at Road Runner?

For non-VIP members, any used or worn item is non-returnable. Nutrition products that have been opened are also generally not eligible for return.

Does Road Runner charge a restocking fee?

No, Road Runner Sports does not charge a restocking fee for returns made within the allowed window.

Can I return used shoes if I am not a VIP?

No. Only VIP Family members have the privilege of returning or exchanging used shoes. Non-members must return shoes in brand-new condition.

How do I get a new return label?

If you lost the label included in your box, you can log into your account on the Road Runner website and print a new one, or contact customer service to have one emailed to you.

Does the holiday return policy extend the window?

Road Runner Sports does not currently list a specific holiday extension, largely because their VIP 90-day window is already very generous. Stick to the standard 60 or 90-day limits.

 

Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location. Always confirm details on the official Road Runner Sports website or with your local store. Information verified November 2025.

Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Road Runner return policy updates and check our other guides before your next purchase.