Retail Is Changing — And AI Is Becoming the New Standard

Running stores are under pressure to deliver a unique, expert-led experience that goes far beyond simply offering a wide range of shoes. Today’s customers expect science-backed guidance, personalized recommendations, and a seamless in-store journey.

Ochy empowers retailers to meet that demand with real-time gait analysis and a precision shoe recommendation engine built on biomechanics and AI. The result: higher conversion, fewer returns, and an in-store experience that keeps runners coming back.

Below are the key ways retailers are using Ochy to transform their point of sale.

1. Why Adopt Ochy In-Store?

A. Precision Shoe Fitting Through AI Gait Analysis

Ochy brings lab-grade biomechanics directly into your store, using nothing more than a smartphone. Instead of guessing or relying on “comfort first,” your team gets objective, real-time insights into:

• Foot strike
• Pronation / supination
• Cadence
• Symmetry
• Pelvic drop
• Knee stability
• Overstride patterns
• And more

These insights translate directly into stronger, more confident recommendations that match each runner’s unique movement patterns.

With Ochy, you replace uncertainty with evidence — and elevate your store’s credibility instantly.

B. Objective, Science-Backed Recommendations — Consistent Across Staff

Shoe recommendations shouldn’t depend on who is working that day. Ochy standardizes the process with data-driven results that are:

• Clear
• Visual
• Actionable

Your staff can confidently say:

‍“Here’s the shoe category your biomechanics require — and here’s the best match in our inventory.”

This consistency increases trust and positions your store as an expert destination rather than a simple retailer.

C. The Shoe Recommendation Engine: Your New Competitive Advantage

This is where Ochy becomes truly transformational.

Ochy’s shoe recommendation engine analyzes each runner’s biomechanics and matches them with the exact models in your inventory. Recommendations are based on eight key footwear parameters — including stability, cushioning, heel-to-toe drop, rocker geometry, and responsiveness.

For retailers, this means:

• Better fitting outcomes
• Stronger customer confidence
• Faster decision-making
• A measurable boost in conversion rate

➜ +50% growth in annual shoe sales when gait analysis is used in the journey is reported by our existing customers.

D. Reduce Returns & Complaints

When customers leave with the right shoe on the first try:

• Fewer returns
• Fewer exchanges
• Fewer negative experiences

Ochy helps stores drastically cut unnecessary returns by aligning foot mechanics with footwear design — something comfort tests alone cannot guarantee.

E. A New Revenue Stream for Retailers

More and more retailers are choosing to monetize gait analysis as a premium in-store service.

Stores typically charge €10–€15 per analysis, either as a standalone service or refunded upon shoe purchase.

This brings:

• Higher per-visit revenue
• New customers who come specifically for the analysis
• A premium, expertise-led brand perception

Some stores now run “gait check days” that generate queues of runners, new leads, and repeat customers.

F. Smarter Inventory Management With Real Customer Data

Ochy’s analytics aren’t just for fitting — they become strategic.

Retailers can access aggregated data to understand:

• Which shoe categories are most needed
• What movement patterns are most frequent
• Which models convert best
• When trends shift based on season or customer base

This helps optimize:

• Stock decisions
• Preorders
• Shelf space
• Model selection

Ochy turns biomechanics into a competitive retail intelligence tool.

2. Setting Up Ochy In-Store

All you need is:

• A smartphone or tablet (iOS & Android supported)
• Optional tripod
• A treadmill or a small space for overground running
• A screen if you want to showcase results

Filming takes under 10 seconds. Results load instantly.
Many stores use our web app to display live results on a TV or monitor, creating an impressive lab-like experience.

3. How Running Stores Around the World Use Ochy

adidas (DE)

Activated Ochy during the Berlin Marathon Expo, using our tech to guide runners toward the ideal adidas models based on real biomechanics.

Hoka (EMEA)

Activated at the heart of running - events. Hoka applied Ochy to the Minova Frankfurt Marathon Expo booth, and the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Marbella to amplify their event booth activation offering a free running form analysis paired with a shoe recommendation to visiting consumers.

Runners Need (UK)

Embedded Ochy in-store to create a premium, science-based shoe fitting journey across their nationwide footprint.

Fleet Feet (US)

Offers Ochy as part of a full performance experience — blending apparel, footwear, and form analysis.

Terre de Running (FR)

Uses Ochy to give staff objective data to back their recommendations and differentiate from competitors.

Skechers (APAC)

Enhances shoe fitting across multiple stores with real-time side-view gait analysis.

Independent Stores Worldwide

Use Ochy to build loyalty and encourage customers to return for regular gait checks, injury prevention advice, and seasonal shoe updates.

4. Expanding Beyond Gait Analysis

Retailers use Ochy for a wide range of commercial and operational advantages:

• AI-powered Shoe Recommendation Engine (your biggest differentiator)
• Cross-sell & upsell opportunities based on objective needs
• CRM integration for long-term customer follow-up and customer segmentation.
• Community engagement (club events, gait days, expert evenings)
• Retention loops (repeat analyses bring runners back)

Ochy is not just a tool — it is a service layer that transforms how your store interacts with customers.

The Future of Running Retail Is Intelligent, Personalized, and Data-Driven.

With Ochy, your store can:

• Boost conversion
• Minimize returns
• Monetize expertise
• Build long-term customer relationships
• Make smarter stock decisions
• Stand out in a competitive market

Ochy isn’t just technology — it’s a new way to connect with runners and elevate the value your store offers.