We’re thrilled to announce a major step forward for Ochy — our official partnership with Runners Need, part of the Cotswold Outdoor group, to introduce AI-powered gait analysis across Runners Needs stores in the UK.
Through this collaboration, Runners Need becomes one of the first major retail networks to integrate Ochy’s science-backed running form technology in-store — transforming the traditional shoe fitting experience into a modern, data-driven, and accessible journey for every runner.
“We are excited to be working with Ochy’s innovative technology to continue to enhance and elevate the experience in our stores and get our customers into the right shoe first time. Whatever our customers goals is, we want to make sure that they have confidence that their shoes will help them achieve it.” - Andy Dopson, Head of Retail
Why This Partnership Matters
This collaboration marks a turning point for the running retail industry.
Until now, in-store gait analysis has relied heavily on manual observation or costly hardware setups, limiting both accuracy and accessibility. Ochy redefines that process — offering a smartphone-based, AI-powered platform that delivers reliable, repeatable, and science-driven results in under a minute.
With Ochy’s technology, Runners Need staff can now provide instant gait assessments that analyze asymmetries, stride mechanics, and shoe compatibility — allowing customers to choose footwear based on how they truly move, not just how it feels.
Redefining Retail: From Storefront to Science Hub
This partnership goes beyond technology — it’s about reshaping the role of retail.
Runners Need stores are becoming centers of movement, learning, and performance, where runners can connect, discover, and improve with the help of cutting-edge biomechanics.
By embedding Ochy’s AI gait analysis into the in-store journey, Runners Need transforms shopping into an experience rooted in education, empowerment, and personalization — making each visit more valuable for runners and more insightful for staff.
For Ochy, this collaboration stands as a proof point of its retail vision:
A solution designed not just for runners, but for the retail floor — scalable, scientific, and seamless. This milestone cements Ochy’s role as the official gait analysis solution for retail, bringing biomechanics to the forefront of consumer experience.
Together, Runners Need and Ochy are shaping the future of retail — where science meets community, and where every runner can find their perfect stride.