I recently visited two Encore Shoe Store locations--Springfield Mall and Potomac Mills--while searching for two specific Sketcher models I had found online. Sketcher makes durable, comfortable sport and casual shoes with wide fit, and I wanted to try on two styles in different sizes. Online sources indicated that the largest Sketcher selections in Northern Virginia were at Potomac Mills and Springfield Mall, but none mentioned that both stores were operated by Encore, which I discovered only after walking the malls.
**Springfield Mall - Positive Experience**
The Encore store at Springfield Mall was well managed and provided excellent customer service. A young salesman approached me promptly when I needed assistance. He was knowledgeable about sizing, accurate in measuring my foot, and helpful in evaluating the fit of different widths. He offered guidance without any sales pressure. Although the specific style I wanted was not in stock, the professionalism and competence of the staff made the visit worthwhile.
**Potomac Mills - Disappointing Experience**
My experience at the Encore store in Potomac Mills was very different. Three employees were on the sales floor, but none acknowledged me or offered assistance. They appeared to be engaged in personal conversation, though I cannot say for certain. When I approached them and asked for help, I was directed to a new employee who openly stated she did not know how to measure feet or advise on fit.
I then asked the two employees at the register--there were no other customers in the store at the time--for assistance. One handed me a measuring device as if I should measure my own foot. When I explained that I needed a salesperson to help, she accompanied me but stated she was not good at measuring or fitting shoes. I asked if someone with more experience could assist, and we eventually worked through the process, but it was clear that the staff's primary skills were limited to taking money and operating the register.
I also shared that I was accustomed to shoe stores where employees are trained to help customers determine proper fit. I did not sense much interest from the staff in learning or improving in this area.
**Conclusion**
Based on my experience, I would recommend the Encore store at Springfield Mall for anyone looking for Sketchers or other shoes, due to the knowledgeable and attentive service. I would not return to the Encore location at Potomac Mills, as the staff there did not demonstrate the training or customer‑service skills needed to assist with proper shoe fitting. read more
