Vitruvian Running

Q: Why are your shoes so cheap?
A: Our shoes aren't cheap. They're less expensive. The materials used are the finest available and rather costly. Since we're purists, we've eliminated the costly marketing gimmicks and doo-dads to offer a pure performance shoe while saving you money at the same time.
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Q: Why do the shoes look so plain?
A: We think of our shoes as having the same smooth lines of a sports car while others are still adding wood grain panels and hood ornaments. We put material only where you need it and not where you don't.
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Q: You said before that "sheet stock" EVA had better cushioning properties than "compression molded". Now you're using compression molded midsoles. Changed your mind?
A: We stand by our statement that the cushioning of sheet stock EVA holds up better than that of compression molded. After all, if compression is what breaks down the cushioning, why would you start out its life by compressing it? However, by using a compression molded midsole shell, we are better able to control the shape and profile. As seen on the Tech Page, we are still adding sheet stock EVA cushioning inserts to the midsole shell.
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Q: Besides the midsole construction, what are the differeces between the new and old models?
A: Aside from the afore mentioned midsole differences, the Classics have the secondary cushioning insert only in the forefoot while we've added it to the heel of the new models. The midsole profile has been lowered to 20 mm in the heel and 11 mm in the forefoot. The upper trim has been changed from synthetic leather to a softer and lighter synthetic suede. The new models are 1 to 1.5 ounces lighter.
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Q: Why don't you make women's shoes?
A: Our models are not gender specific. Most running shoes sold today are unisex. They are often made in different colors and marketed to either men or women but in reality they are the same shoe. Try this: go to your favorite store and try on your favorite shoe. Then, going up or down 1 1/2 sizes (size 8 women's = size 6 1/2 men's), try on the same model of the other gender. They feel the same because they are the same.
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Q: How does your fit and sizing compare to other brands?
A: Tell us your current size, brand and model and we'll do our best fit you in an appropriate shoe.
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Q: What if the shoes don't fit? Can I get a different size or model?
A: Please refer to our Return Policy.
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Q: OK. So I buy your shoes, wear them and fall in love with them. When I go to replace them in 6 months, can I get the same thing or will I have to get the "new and improved" version?
A: You'll still be able to get the same shoe you trust and love. We are not on any seasonal schedule as other companies are, introducing new models every year or so just to keep their line fresh and exciting. Our customers will drive any changes we make to our shoes. We encourage them to contact us with ideas for improvements. With their help, we'll truly make our shoes better, not just different.
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Q: What if I need a wide or narrow shoe? Can you help?
A: At this writing, we offer only medium widths. Once these are moving, we plan to offer wide and narrow versions. These shoes will have actual wide and narrow bottoms, not just a different width upper on the original width bottom as is done today.
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Q: How much do you charge for shipping?
A: Shipping within the United States is free. Shipping to Canada is $5. Other international shipping is $20.
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Q: Where are your shoes made?
A: Design, engineering and initial prototyping is done here in our shop in Hooksett, New Hampshire. We have even made a few pair of custom Vitruvians for customers with special needs. Our production shoes are manufactured by a contracted factory in Indonesia using fair labor practices. They are clean, climate controlled factories with cafeterias and often lodging and use the latest equipment for both safety and productivity.
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Q: Was your question un-answered?
A: Email us at: shoemaker@vitruvianrunning.com
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