Taking Strides Toward Inclusivity: Confluence's Accessibility Journey

Breaking Barriers, One Step at a Time: Confluence Running’s Mission to Inclusivity

At Confluence Running, we believe that running is more than just a physical activity—it’s a path to community, personal growth, and well-being. Our mission has always been to help customers find the perfect pair of running shoes, the right training plan, and a supportive environment to conquer their goals, whether that’s a 5K or an ultramarathon. But our commitment doesn’t end with providing quality gear and advice. We also strive to ensure that everyone—regardless of ability, background, or needs—can fully access our services, both in-store and online.

Building an Inclusive In-Store Experience

Physical Accessibility
We’ve redesigned our store layout with wider aisles to accommodate wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices. Clear signage and an easily navigable floor plan help reduce clutter and allow customers to move through the space comfortably and safely. Our checkout counters and fitting areas are also positioned at accessible heights for individuals with different physical abilities.
Adaptive Fitting Services
Finding the right running shoe can be a challenge for anyone, but we understand that some individuals may have unique fit requirements or use orthotics and prosthetics. That’s why our staff is trained in adaptive fitting techniques. We spend extra time assessing gait, pressure points, and comfort, offering personalized footwear recommendations so that everyone—including those with disabilities—can feel confident on their feet.
Support for All Levels and Abilities
We believe in inclusivity at every level of running. Whether you’re returning to activity after an injury, working through mobility challenges, or just starting out, our staff is trained to provide empathetic guidance. We offer no-judgment consultations and group runs designed for newcomers, walkers, and wheelchair users, in addition to more advanced athletes.

Enhancing Online Accessibility

Accessible Website Design
We know that the online experience needs to be just as welcoming as the in-store one. Our website is designed to comply with the latest Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This includes ensuring that images have descriptive alt text for screen readers, color contrasts are optimized for visibility, and the entire site can be navigated using a keyboard alone.
Easy-to-Use Online Store
We’ve invested in e-commerce tools that are user-friendly for those who rely on assistive technologies. Our product pages include clear, concise product details and high-quality visuals, paired with comprehensive product descriptions so that anyone can make an informed purchase from the comfort of their home.
Virtual Consultations
We recognize that some customers may not be able to visit our store in person. To accommodate them, we offer video or phone consultations, where an expert can guide you through a self-measured gait analysis or help answer questions about shoe sizes, arch types, and more. These services aim to give everyone a more personalized experience, even when shopping remotely.

Partnership with Binghamton University’s Services for Students with Disabilities

To further our commitment to accessibility, Confluence Running has forged a partnership with the Services for Students with Disabilities department at Binghamton University. Each semester, students with various disabilities—including visual, mobility, and program accessibility needs—actively engage with our products and services to provide valuable feedback.

Whether they are testing our in-store accessibility or analyzing our online storefront, these students offer real-world insights on how to improve overall user experience. From ensuring our aisles can accommodate wheelchairs with ease, to refining website content for screen readers, we integrate their input into every aspect of our operations. This collaboration not only shapes our approach to physical and digital accessibility but also empowers these students to directly influence positive change in our community.

Ongoing Commitment & Community Support

We know that improving accessibility is an ongoing process. We continue to train staff on disability awareness and best practices for serving a diverse range of customers. The feedback we gather from Binghamton University students with disabilities, as well as from our customers, helps us evolve our strategies and introduce new initiatives for greater inclusivity.

Confluence Running is built on the principle that everyone deserves the chance to participate in the joy and challenge of running. By prioritizing accessibility in our store design, fitting services, online presence, and through partnerships like the one with Binghamton University, we hope to lead by example in the running community—and ensure that no one is left on the sidelines.

Visit us online or stop by any of our locations to learn more about our commitment to inclusive running. Together, we can make strides toward a more accessible, welcoming community for all.