Everyone knows kids feet grow every 3- 6 mos or so and my kids toes werent going to survive sticking out of his old sandals. So off to Ken's Shoes we went, in a small square on S Fair Oaks in South Pasadena. I heard this place will accurately do fittings for free, and that the shoes are reasonably priced. We got here around noon, before lunch. The lady tried to put his foot in the metal sizing device but of course my child freaked out. I wanted the most accurate size - so for us to not do the metal foot sizer test was disappointing. The lady eyeballed his foot and gauged for him to be a T10. He might be a 9 but she said shoes should have space in them to avoid the insides rub his toes. I'm like, okay, you're the expert. She has a ton of shoes here. The place has wall to wall shoes / boxes of shoes. The place specializes in children's shoes, and they do have some of the good brands. She offered me some See Kai Run sandals for $25-30 (i forget exactly)- I know that brand is fancy, so that was a good price! Crocs were about $25 (very similar to Amazon generic crocs) but the colors she had in his size were too loud. I ended up declining the Crocs and got the See Kai Run sandals. There were some other similar styles that she didn't offer, and I'm not sure if she was just not keen on pulling out as many options for us to try, but I looked around and pointed at a few things and she obliged and showed them to us after checking that she had them in the kiddo's size. But then we saw that he was settling down with the sandals she first suggested so that's all we ended up buying. She has these little toys around the store for the kids to play with. She had a battery operated Flash on motorcycle that she gave to my son for free. I thought that was mighty sweet of her. Lately, I've been avoiding shopping at big box stores and trying to exist on goods from (and support) small biz. Ken Shoes is definitely a small business that I would not mind supporting. The only issue I have is their extremely limited hours. We're due for another visit soon. read more

Ken's Shoes - Purchased here. 8 mos old now. - Shoe Stores Near Me - South Pasadena, California

I have been coming here for years to get my child shoes and the lady who works here puts her heart & soul into customer service. I highly recommend shopping here and supporting good people/business. read more

Had a great experience here buying my baby's first walking shoes :) the lady who works here is very helpful, thorough, and knowledgeable. Will keep coming back for sure! read more

I cant recommend this place enough. My daughter is 14 months old and is in PT due to developmental delays. It was finally time to get her some shoes, and we thankfully found Jennifer at Ken's shoes. She was so kind, waiting until my daughter felt comfortable around her to check her size and watch her stand. She helped us find a great pair that help my child keep her feet aligned and standing strong, hopefully walking confidently soon! read more

Ken's Shoes - My child in her new stride rite shoes- standing straight and strong! - Shoe Stores Near Me - South Pasadena, California

GREAT gem tucked away in South Pasadena. If your littles need good shoes that shouldn't have negative effect on the proper growth of those precious feet, this is the place to go! read more

I HIGHLY recommend Ken's Shoes. We came here to purchase some first time walking shoes for our baby and the shopkeeper was extremely patient, knowledgeable and helpful! She measured baby's feet, check the size of his heel and checked how he walked before selecting a pair that's best for him. She also had him do some steps to ensure the shoes were good for him. Overall, our experience was beyond expectation and definitely will be bringing him back when he outgrows his current pair. read more

We've been here many times to buy shoes for our kids and for my husband. The place is jam packed full of shoes. My advice is to just let the shopkeeper know what you're looking for and let her bring stuff to you, there's not a lot of room to walk about and the displays are many and crammed together, so it's hard to "see" stuff because there's so much of it. This is old-timey service, she measures your foot and she knows how the shoes run (narrow, high arch, etc.) and can quickly find a good match for you. They have a LARGE inventory of rainboots and snow boots both for kids and adults and I should add, they soooo many styles and colors in the kids rainboots --- it's the largest I've seen anywhere. They have large inventory of Crocs and Converse. If you have toddlers, they also have a very large collection of Robeeze as well as some Stride Rite and Mini Me. They have a lot of flip flops, again both for kids (with the strap in the back) and for adults (Vans, Flojos, etc.) For ladies they have some fashion boots and Keds slip ons. They also have a lot of athletic Asics tennis shoes. I appreciate the reasonable prices, no fighting crowds and personal service! read more

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If anyone ever is looking for kid shoes and has trouble fitting their kids, I just want to give a shoutout to Ken's shoes in South Pasadena. After a million online sandal/water shoes orders and returns, we ended up going to Ken's and it was so super helpful. We've always found her helpful for sneakers but it was so helpful for sandals too- what could kid stay in all day versus just temporarily, what could take water versus not, what would be slippery, etc. Prices are totally fair and reasonable. The expertise is priceless. We're super appreciative to get the extra help! read more

Absolutely incredible experience! The woman who helped us spend well over 30 minutes entirely focused on helping us find a pair of shoes that would be best for my son's feet. We've always struggled to find shoes that fit him properly and don't cause falls, and she was SO helpful. Did thorough measurements of his feet and explained in detail exactly what to look for in the future for him. Had him do adorable little running tests in each pair we tried, and even gave us a coloring book at checkout. THIS is why I try my best to shop small, you would never get this level of knowledge, experience and attention at any big box store. Truly unmatched. 100% worth the drive if you don't live close by. read more

We are repeat customers at Ken's. They actually measure your childrens feet which seems like a rare thing these days and they know their stuff. It's a small business which I like as well. read more

Packed with shoes and hats to navigate on your own but the sales woman knows where everything is and can help you find what you're looking for. read more

Store will rip you off. Driving to Pasadena from OC my son rushed into car without his shoes. I had no choice but to Yelp where to buy kids shoes in Pasadena. I came into the store and saw a lot of options but no pricing on most of the shoes. I explained we are in a rush and needed a pair of shoes since my son left the house without his shoes. She didn't bother offering options or much help. After about 15mins in the store asking pricing and sizing we weren't able to find anything for him. We saw a pair of girl maryjanes which my daughter needed for school. I asked her pricing when she said $35. I told her we would take it. I kept looking at because we need shoes for my son and couldn't find anything my son would wear more then once that was under $30. Finally my son saw a pair of rainboots and the lady said those were $15. I told her fine we will take them both. I realized I forgot my wallet in the car and hurry and went to get it. When I got back she said both shoes were $75. At first I didn't think much about it and gave her my credit card bc I was in a rush but then I realized this wasn't the price she said so I asked her why so much. She said the maryjanes were $55. I told her that's not what she told me so I said forget it we just take rainboots and rushed out. Later on I saw a price tag on boots which said $10. Don't trust this store. They will rip you off. I couldn't believe she would charge me more just to make an extra $5. read more

I drove across town today to visit this store with my wife and two children. The store opens at noon on Saturday. We waited for 20 minutes outside the store in the sun. It never opened. We left. On the way across town back to our house I called them repeatedly. They finally answered their phone at 12:30PM. I asked why they were not open at noon and the owner told me that she had some errands to run in the morning. I guess her errands are more important than my wife, my children and me. I guess her errands are important enough to make me wait outside her store in the sun for twenty minutes. I guess her errands are more important than the few hours I have on the weekends. I hope she had a good time on her errands. I'm going over to Journeys Kidz at the Santa Anita Mall! Don't waste your time at this store. read more

I love this place. I've been taking my kid here since he could walk and the shoes that he tries on are always high quality and fit perfectly. We'll come here until my kid hits adulthood! read more

Even though it's very easy to order shoes online nowadays, but little kids can't exactly verbally their thoughts or whether something is truly comfortable beyond the initial 2 minute try-on, it's very important to have someone measure out my kids' feet and make recommendations based on their feet shape and the right type/brand of shoes to wear for their age. For example, the owner was able to tell me that it's not good for a child's feet development if you let them wear such type/brand of shoes too early, and that sole flexibility is essential for feet development when they initially learn to walk, etc. We've been coming here for years and are always happy with their advice and service. read more

I am fond of this store, because the lady knows shoes. Excellent selection of children's shoes. I also go here for tennis shoe liners and they have been great! She will help you find the ones that fit and feel just right. Service like this is hard to find. I came at opening once and had to wait for the owner to get there. It was worth the wait, but call first! read more

She was so patient and helpful with my screaming and crying children. We bought a pair for each and they don't want to take them off. We will be back for more! Thank you! read more

Salesperson picked out the perfect shoes for my 19 month old. Pediatrician also approved of the purchase when she saw it

Small place crammed floor to ceiling with shoes. Great selection on Crocs, running shoes and sneakers, but not a place to be looking for dressy party shoes. The pricing seems to be in stride with the average retail shoe store. Though small this place is doing something right if it has been in business for a couple decades. read more

How do I say this without sounding like a cheapskate? Ken's is amazing shoes at decent prices. I don't want to jip my kids out of cool kicks because I can't swallow Stride Rite and Nordstrom prices. I just come to Ken's instead! They sell a ton of different Crocs, Vans, Converse, Saltwater, STride Rite, Saucony, Sketchers, tons of different brands and styles. I always check Ken's first before heading to the annoying mall. They also sell adult crocs and athletic shoes. I will agree that this place is tiny and jam packed. But the they are super helpful in navigating the stock and will measure and assist with trying on the shoes. Just ask! Also, they are super friendly. I highly recommend checking out Ken's first. read more

Came here with a friend to pick up shoes on the fly. Not a fancy place, kinda small and crowded, sizes and styles vary- unless you want Crocs. Then they have all colors and lots of sizes. I did have my eye on some comfy Sketchers sandals... hmmm. Name brands, discounts of 20-50% off on boxed items- and I do mean in a box- you have to dig through it. Nothing is sorted by size, and you have to just try your luck. If nothing, there's always Pollo Loco & Hawaiian food next door. read more

Ken's Shoes - Shoe Stores Near Me - South Pasadena, California

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I've been all over town trying to find shoes for my 1 year old. The first two times, the shoe was either too small or too narrow. Then I tried a different store and the shoe was wide enough, but too long. Finally went to Ken's and had an actual salesperson help me out. She was able to find an appropriately sized shoe using a tracing that I brought in (of the outline of my son's foot). He actually doesn't mind walking around in these shoes, as opposed to the other ones that didn't fit. Successful purchase. I will definitely be back! read more

Our toddler has wide feet, high arches and isn't quite steady on her feet yet. It's been a nightmare trying to find shoes for her. The sales lady was super helpful and found the perfect pair of soft soled shoes for her. They're a family owned store that's been in business for 30+ years. They definitely know what they're doing. read more

Staff can help you find something that is right for your foot. Much better experience than the mall.

This is the first time that I have received outstanding service while shopping for shoes since I was a little girl, 30 years ago. This family-owned business does everything with class. The store is small, but had multiple choices for my ridiculously picky child and thus we left happy as clams at high tide since we found not one but 2 pair of shoes that he loved. The kicker is that my son has orthopedic differences from other children. He wears a prosthetic leg on the right and has an unusually high instep on the left. Jennifer was working and she measured his feet, examined their features and was able to tell us exactly which styles would be most comfortable for my son. We were in Pasadena because we were staying at the Ronald McDonald house while his new prosthetic leg was being made. They have Converse, Nike, Vans (of the latest styles), Stride Rite for kids as well as a very healthy selection of classic and new-style crocs. Best. Shoe. Shopping. Experience. Ever. read more

Amazing service! Thank you for taking such good care of my little ones feet. I have never seen so many options for my sons wide feet.

We got our boys some awesome CROCS for rainy season last year. Very happy with the level of service. Will go today for another pair. They've outgrown the current pairs! read more

This store is such a great find for kids shoes!! I couldn't find tennis shoes for my son (size 5) other than big, ugly basketball shoes or converse anywhere. Kens has a good selection of tennis shoes for boys size 4-7 which are really hard to find. The prices are great and good customer service. I will definitely be back! read more

After this place was recommended by a friend, I drove to Pasadena with my 17 month old to get her measured and purchase new shoes. If you have or have ever had a 17 month old child, you know a longish car ride is no easy feat. Got there on a Friday at 11:45am... the store was locked tight. Dark inside. No sign on the door or anything, other than a sign that clarified the hours and said the store opened at 11am. I couldn't really wait around, I hadn't brought the stroller to go elsewhere, and I was just generally SO annoyed that I wasted 45 minutes driving aimlessly with a toddler. Will be going elsewhere for shoes. I guess call in advance if you want to shop?? read more

Have returned three times to buy more shoes for my kiddo. This is still our go-to place for shoes. Unfortunately, I once came by at 11:15 am on a weekday, and the proprietor had not yet arrived. I hung around with my toddler for a good long while, because the store hours indicated they open at 11:00. By the time I left it was 11:50, and the store was still closed. So now I call first to make sure it's open. read more

I love this spot. Its convenient so I can avoid the malls, and my kids always find what they need here. The family that runs the place is very hospitable and clean. They make you fell like your part of their family. Keep up the good work! read more

It's been very difficult to find my 4 year old son the right shoes because he has WIDE feet. Meaning that most regular shoes we shop for don't fit him. We found Ken's Shoes by luck and found the perfect shoes. The staff was very helpful and after measuring my son's feet, we were able to find running shoes (our kid loves to run), hiking boots (we live right by the mountains and take many hikes) and crocs. We can't wait to go back and shop for my 20 month old daughter's shoes! read more

If I could give this place zero stars I would. I don't know how they stay in business. I've come in at least half a dozen times and mostly with my child in tow. There's always this one mean-looking Asian woman with glasses who never greets the customers and never asks if she can help out. In addition, you cannot even walk in that store! These owners are professional hoarders! Shoeboxes piled high all over the place! Today was the last straw. I found a cute pair of croc flip flops for my child but they were blue, so I asked if she had other colors. Her curt reply was, "no, that's all I have." No suggestions for other models or brands of flip flops. Just a mean look as if to say, "stop bothering me because I'm busy being miserable." read more

Good shoes at a cheap price!! I love how they sell brand name shoes here like converse and vans! And I'm a size 7.5 so most shoe stores don't have that size, but I'm so glad they have my size!! Close to my home, almost walking distance and great location too!! I always shop here for my shoes such as converse and vans and running shoes :) read more

Ken's is a family owned and operated store. It's not fancy. It's a bit cluttered. The sales people are kind. We like to support them and our local businesses. They have a decent selection and the sales lady is always helpful at finding something for my kids that will work. Sometimes they open the doors after the posted opening time, so I wouldn't show up right on the dot. If you go there expecting the quirks and charm and not Nordstorm's kids department, you will be happy. read more

This is my first stop for kids shoes. For as tiny as the store is, yes it is very cramped, they have a great selection of many name brands, at great pricing. The owner, and only person who works at the store, is very knowledgeable about fit and sizing of all the brands. She is always extremely friendly, so I am not sure what the two outlier reviews were talking about. read more

The shop is very small but the owner is super helpful and always pulls out a bunch of shoe choices for us. Since our little one is new to shoes, we want to make sure we're getting personalized help so that she's wearing shoes that are developmentally appropriate for her little feet. read more

Ken's Shoes is a GREAT place to get a pair of tennies. Yes, it is small but it has oodles of options for kids and adults alike in terms of casual sports shoes. I got a dandy pair of red Keds for $22!! The service is great and the owner took her time to find me just what I was looking for. This is a family owned business in a strip mall next to Pollo Loco and is a real find. I will be going there again soon, but next time with my grandkids! Karen (in Pasadena) read more

The service was terrible! I would have given a zero if possible. We got to the store at 11AM and a dreary women came and opened the doors at 11:15AM. When we walked in there was not a word about "sorry I am late or how can I help you?" She fiddled with the cash register and then went out of sight to the back of the store--I guess to use the restroom. After a few minutes we had enough waiting so we left. (We could have taken shoes as we left and she would not have known, or probably cared.) Not a good way to treat a customer if you want them to come back. read more

A small friendly family shoe shop.