Mike's Shoe Repair - Evanston, Illinois

Birgitta P. K.

I am extremely disappointed with my experience at Mike’s Shoes Repair. I took my shoes in for a simple sole repair, but when I got them back, the original look was completely ruined. Without informing me beforehand, they covered both shoes with a leather layer to keep the soles intact, which not only altered the design but destroyed the aesthetic I originally loved.

To make matters worse, they insisted that I hadn’t already paid. I had actually paid $30 in cash upfront, even though the cost was only $24. They told me they don’t accept payment upfront, but that was clearly not true. When I mentioned the payment, they then said I didn’t need to pay again because I “have an honest face.” This felt unprofessional and disrespectful.

Between the poor communication, unnecessary changes to my shoes, and the confusing handling of payment, I am extremely dissatisfied with the entire experience. I won’t be returning, and I cannot recommend this place to anyone.

Molly S.

They only take cash and checks, and there's no ATM. While I understand that's the way they have operated for 40 years, it's 2023 and lots of people don't carry cash. My boots cost $65 to put soles on only and the "new" plastic soles look chewed up around the edges. The man argued with me about their cash and check only policy when I said that it's not safe for them as a business to keep that much cash on hand. Will not be returning.

A L. ?. X.

Excellent job on a totally destroyed sneaker, I can't believe it! The heel was torn to shreds and I told the guy fixing them that I didn't care what it looked like but I wanted the fix to be super strong. I got leather inserts, stitched and glued, all for $20. I'm so happy because they don't make these any more and now I'm not scared that each wear will be my last. Couldn't be happier.

Andrew M.

Excellent quality of service at a very affordable price. Highly suggest supporting this small local business.

Katrin S.

I loved my experience! They were professional and the shop itself charming. I went in soon after they opened, asking to replace the heels on a pair of shoes, assuming they would just change the treads/plastic tips. Instead, the pair came back that same day with fully new heels up to the sole of the shoe! He clearly knew what he was doing, as the shoes came back not only fixed but cleaned up, and at a reasonable price at that! Would highly recommend for service, efficiency, and quality.

Sameer

Local, specialty businesses almost always exceed my expectations, but this was one of the most negative service experiences I've had (and over such a minor issue). FIVE MONTHS to replace one suitcase wheel, deceptive communication, and they inappropriately charged me for covered warranty service (manufacturer later agreed with me in writing).
Mike's is the only authorized Travel Pro repair shop in my area, unfortunately. One of four wheels on TravelPro Platinum Elite 25" broke after first use. TravelPro confirmed part was in stock and would ship 1-2 days to Mike's. Waited weeks, did not hear from Mike's, called and they said they didn't have the part; TravelPro said they did and when I called Mike's back they "meant to say" they did have the part but hadn't started repair yet. They promised to call me in one week, never did. After the 3rd time they failed to finish on promised date, I let them know my frustration and was told they couldn't get to it for at least 3 days...yet miraculously they called 3hrs later and said it was ready.
Upon pickup, the store owner said I must pay $25 for the repair. I informed him of the TravelPro warranty but he insisted. I showed him the official warranty and an email from TravelPro rep confirming free parts/labor, and I pointed out that his own employee confirmed the repair would be covered by warranty and therefore she just gave me a pickup ticket with no bill or cost estimate. He disregarded all this information and insisted I paid, rudely, cash only, no receipt. I did so only because I was under a time constraint that day.
I informed him I would report this incident to TravelPro and BBB. TravelPro wrote back apologizing for store manager's mistake and said I could go to the store to collect refund. Mike's never contacted me. $25 not worth the time, gas, and likely fight they'd put up again, but I may go back for the refund just on principle.

Alex O.

This place has fixed my my shoes that I love so much get a whole other lifetime out do them! High quality work!

Laurel O.

This is the best place hands down in Evanston for shoe repair. The owner and all his family who work there are excellent at what they do and super responsive above and beyond ensuring you’re satisfied.