We live in an age of replacement: if something breaks, we throw it away and buy a new one. But you can’t just throw a good pair of shoes away. Shoes take us where we need to go, and they’re a vital piece of not only personal style, but necessity and comfort. If they get worn down, scuffed or busted, if they lose a heel or get a hole in the sole, you can’t just toss them in the trash. It will take months or longer for a new pair to feel just right the way the old ones did. You don’t throw a good pair of shoes away. You get them fixed. Here is where to do it.
(credit: CBS)
Anjolens Shoe Repair
111 Kellogg Blvd E., Suite 224
St. Paul, MN 55101
(651) 222-0668
Hidden in the downtown St. Paul skyway system, Anjolens evokes old-world charm while providing quality service at reasonable prices. Walking into the tiny shop, decorated with classic shoe repair tools, adorable leather shoes for toddlers from years past and other personal touches, you’ll know that your footwear will be in good hands. Best of all, the work is done quickly. If you need your shoes fixed before your big overseas trip coming up soon, you’ll know you’ll get them back in time and looking great to boot if you bring them to Anjolens.
Fast Eddie’s
1316 4th St. S.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 623-4464
www.fasteddiesshoerepair.com
You don’t have to be a University of Minnesota student to appreciate this shoe repair shop. Located in Dinkytown, Fast Eddie’s has been taking care of shoes for over 30 years, and Dinkytown development notwithstanding, it will be there for 30 more. The care that the cobblers show for your shoes is clear, and the heel work and stitching is top-notch. Make sure to peruse the large selection of shoe care products while you’re there. You can find everything from laces to leather protectors to keep your shoes looking fine.
(credit: RJ’s Shoe Repair)
RJ’s Shoe Repair
13919 Aldrich Ave. S.
Burnsville, MN 55337
(952) 373-0844
www.rjsshoerepair.com
The knowledgeable staff not only takes great care of your shoes and boots, but also offers tips on how to maintain you favorite footwear, especially through the hard months of winter. If you’re a hiker, leave your worn leather boots at RJ’s before your next trip. Also specializing in orthopedic shoes and athletic wear, you can take whatever you need fixed to this suburban shop and get it back perfectly repaired. The store also sells a selection of Allen Edmonds footwear, perfect if you’re looking for another pair of shoes to add to the family.
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Lee’s Shoe Repair
815 W. Lake St.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 824-2040
Getting your shoes fixed couldn’t be easier than at Lee’s, and the excellent service has kept people coming back for years. Located in Uptown, it’s worth battling the hustle and bustle of the area to leave your shoes with this cobbler. Even if you’re just looking for a good polish, this is the place to do it. Want to avoid the hassle of finding parking? Lee’s requires that you prepay, so have a friend or loved one wait in the car while you pick up your shoes. It’s the quickest trip in and out that you could ever hope for.
(credit: Dave’s Shoe Repair)
Dave’s Shoe Repair
489 7th St. W.
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 224-0334
www.davesshoerepair.net
Housed in a former tattoo parlor, Dave’s work with shoes, especially leather, borders on magical. If that street salt is destroying your shoes, that’s also not a problem. The friendly and accommodating service stretches so far that you can even send a picture of your shoes through the website and get a quote on what it will cost to fix, shine or whatever you’re looking for. Efficiency is the name of the game at Dave’s.
Related: What To Do With Fading Shoes
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.
